The Best Facial Masks

Face masks have become the foundation of any skincare routine. No matter how fatigued, stressed, damaged or dry your complexion may be, there is a mask that can help you regain its natural glow .

But instead of choosing the first mask you see, make sure it is formulated to treat your skin problems , whether they are blemishes or lack of radiance. To save you headaches, we have chosen our favorites based on their ingredients.

So that you can make an informed choice, here is an analysis of the 6 best face masks : purifying, moisturizing, detoxifying or repairing, and with a wide variety of application forms: sheets, clay, gel … Your skin will find its new favorite mask (or two, or three).

In this post you have the complete analysis of the two best options, of the rest you will see a summary, and you will find a link that leads to their complete analysis separately.

And if there is a link in the explanation of any ingredient, it is because it is already explained in another review, and through the link you can easily access it to see it in detail.

After the analysis you will find more information about face masks, so read on and discover why you should start using this cosmetic right away. We started!

The best facial masks

  • Nezeni Cosmetics Vitamin C Mask
  • Caudalie Instant Detoxifying Mask
  • SK-II Facial Treatment Mask
  • Laneige Sleeping Water Mask
  • Advanced Night Repair PowerFoil Concentrate Mask by Estee Lauder
  • L’Oreal Pure Clays Detox Effect Mask

The Best – Nezeni Cosmetics Vitamin C Mask

Buy on Amazon or on the cheapest laboratory website

It is the facial mask that we like the most. First, because it has a high concentration of vitamin C , an antioxidant capable of stimulating collagen and elastin, making the epidermis more elastic and firm, while brightening the complexion, evens out the tone and reduces spots.

These antioxidant benefits combine with kaolin and clay to purify the complexion, clean pores, and absorb excess oil . Perfect for oily skin that wants to start reversing the effects of aging.

It is a product made with natural and quality ingredients , which avoids irritants and limits preservatives as much as possible so as not to damage the complexion and avoid the cumulative effect they have on the dermis. If you notice, it expires after two years when closed, something that other cosmetics do not usually have due to the high concentration of preservatives they have.

You just have to take a look at your INCI to verify it.

  • Kaolin: Kaolin is a natural clay (aluminum silicate) that is used in cosmetics and personal care products to cleanse and exfoliate the epidermis, as well as for its absorbent properties, and to add texture and volume to products. The absorbent properties of kaolin can absorb excess oil from the surface of the complexion, which can help reduce shine. It can also draw oil, dirt, and other impurities from your pores. This is why kaolin is such a popular ingredient in clay masks for oily and acne-prone skin. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling around existing spots. It is also used in exfoliating products because it does not dissolve completely in water, rather, it forms a paste with very fine particles. These particles serve as a mild abrasive that can exfoliate the upper layers of the skin, removing dead cells, makeup, excess oil, dirt, and other impurities that may have accumulated during the day. Lastly, kaolin works as a natural preservative due to its absorbent properties, which preserves the water within itself, away from bacteria, yeast or mold. These microbes cannot survive without water. Kaolin is soft enough to be used by people with sensitive complexions. However, if used too often and in large quantities, it can lead to excess dryness. removing dead cells, makeup, excess oil, dirt and other impurities that may have accumulated during the day. Lastly, kaolin works as a natural preservative due to its absorbent properties, which preserves the water within itself, away from bacteria, yeast or mold. These microbes cannot survive without water. Kaolin is soft enough to be used by people with sensitive complexions. However, if used too often and in large quantities, it can lead to excess dryness. removing dead cells, makeup, excess oil, dirt and other impurities that may have accumulated during the day. Lastly, kaolin works as a natural preservative due to its absorbent properties, which preserves the water within itself, away from bacteria, yeast or mold. These microbes cannot survive without water. Kaolin is soft enough to be used by people with sensitive complexions. However, if used too often and in large quantities, it can lead to excess dryness. yeasts or molds. These microbes cannot survive without water. Kaolin is soft enough to be used by people with sensitive complexions. However, if used too often and in large quantities, it can lead to excess dryness. yeasts or molds. These microbes cannot survive without water. Kaolin is soft enough to be used by people with sensitive complexions. However, if used too often and in large quantities, it can lead to excess dryness.
  • Dicaprylyl Carbonate : Tested in Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Anti-Wrinkle Cream for Men .
  • Stearic Acid : Analyzed in Fiori di Cipria’s anti-wrinkle cream for men .
  • Caprylic / Capric Triglyceride : Tested in Clarins Men’s Anti-Wrinkle Cream for Men .
  • Oryza Sativa (Rice) Starch: Absorbent substance that is sometimes included in products instead of talc. Rice starch is a totally hypoallergenic product. Another important attribute is its distinctive particle size, which is by far the smallest of all commercial starches. The smaller the granules, the higher the concentration of particles on a specific surface. Therefore, the product is able to absorb more water compared to other types of starches. For this reason, rice starch is the most effective thickener of all starches derived from botany. This property allows the creation of more stable products with optimal consistency. It has a drier finish than talcum powder, and is sometimes used in large quantities in powders intended for people with very oily skin.
  • Ascorbyl Glucoside : Analyzed in the anti-wrinkle cream Vita Lift 5 from L’Oreal Men Expert .
  • Aluminum Silicatum Magnesium : Analyzed in the Lancaster Skin Therapy eye contour .
  • Glycerin : Tested in Clarins Men’s Anti-Wrinkle Cream for Men .
  • Potassium Cetyl Phosphate : Analyzed in the eye contour LIFTACTIV Vichy Eyes .
  • Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate : Analyzed in Natura Siberica’s Eagle Eye contour .
  • Benzyl Alcohol : Tested in Nuxellence de Nuxe eye contour .
  • Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate : Tested in Endocare’s Cellage Anti-Wrinkle Cream .
  • Hectorite : Tested in Akento anti-stretch mark cream .
  • Arginine : Tested in Shiseido Men Anti-Wrinkle Cream for Men .
  • Parfum .
  • Ethylhexylglycerin : Analyzed in Nezeni Cosmetics anti-wrinkle cream .
  • Ammonium Glycyrrhizate : Tested in Estée Lauder Perfectionist CP + R Serum .
  • Carbomer : Analyzed in the Youth Eye Complex eye contour from iS Clinical .
  • Acacia Senegal Gum : Tested in Cien’s Orchid Wrinkle Filler .
  • Xanthan Gum : Tested in L’Oreal Men Expert’s Vita Lift 5 Anti-Wrinkle Cream for Men .
  • Hydroxymethylcellulose : Analyzed in Nezeni Cosmetics anti-wrinkle cream .
  • Imidazolidinyl Urea : Tested in L’Oreal Men Expert’s Vita Lift 5 anti-wrinkle cream for men .
  • Tocopherol : Tested in Clarins Men’s Anti-Wrinkle Cream for Men .
  • Butylphenyl Methylpropional : Tested in Clarins Men’s Anti-Wrinkle Cream for Men .
  • Hexyl Cinnamic Aldehyde : Analyzed in Akento Cosmetics anti-cellulite gel .
  • Limonene : Tested in Clarins Men’s Anti-Wrinkle Cream for Men .

From the first ingredient to the last, they are all functional. It has no fillers and much less irritating ingredients. The brand has ensured that the fragrances it uses are safe, and I think I have only seen one preservative.

The cleaning agents are very mild, and it has several beneficial assets, such as amino acids, which increase the production of collagen; licorice extract, an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and calming ingredient; vitamin E and C, and rice starch that absorbs fat and leaves a matte finish.

This mask comes in a 100ml tube that lasts quite a bit. I have used it twice a week and my tube lasted about two months so it works a lot!

It has a very neutral aroma. It doesn’t really have an identifiable odor, something I like so I don’t have a nasty smell under your nose while you wait for it to do its job.

The mask has a creamy texture that spreads very well over the entire face, as it does not drip. Simply put a thin layer on the complexion, but cover it completely so it can do its job. If I have any granite or a stain, I put a little more product on top.

According to the instructions, it should be left on for 10 to 15 minutes . In that time, you don’t feel much, as it doesn’t leave your complexion dry or tight like other clay masks. After ten minutes, the clay is mostly dry.

You can rinse it off with water, or as the brand recommends, remove it with a sponge soaked in micellar water. Be that as it may, removing it completely takes a while, but in my experience, all clay masks have this flaw because they dry out.

It re-moistens easily, but you have to be especially careful with all those little nooks and crannies on the face, like around the nose and along the hairline. Otherwise, pieces of the product will remain on your face.

Once removed, the complexion is super smooth and clean . I’m really surprised. It does not dry out my skin at all, it does not leave redness or irritation. The pores are closed, the surface completely fresh and clean, and without shine.

The complexion is perfectly prepared to later apply the serum or the treatment cream.

The Nezeni mask works especially well for oily or combination skin, or when you have a little acne (or those pesky period pimples!), Although it can be used on all skin types.

It has quickly become one of my favorites. The only downside: you will only find it on the laboratory’s website and on Amazon .

Caudalie Instant Detoxifying Mask

This detoxifying mask works by extracting all the dirt from the pores, eliminating excess oil and toxins , decongesting and revealing a healthier and fresher complexion.

Gently removes dead skin cells to refine texture and create a smoother, light-reflecting surface for an instantly brighter look . An ideal, fast-acting treatment before a special occasion, or to purify the epidermis at the end of a stressful week.

Grape extract detoxifies, while clay and coffee extract absorb dirt and excess oil that cause blackheads. These natural ingredients fight excess sebum that causes blemishes and blemishes.

The enzymes in papaya invigorate and brighten, and the organic essential oils of lavender and sage actively fight bacteria, reducing the likelihood of future breakouts.

This option is a vegan product, non-toxic, not tested on animals, hypoallergenic, safe for sensitive complexions, and free of fillers, gluten, GMOs and synthetic chemicals.

We are going to analyze the INCI to verify that this is so.

  • Kaolin . Tested in the Nezeni Cosmetics Vitamin C mask, discussed above.
  • Bentonite : A type of clay that is used as an absorbent in cosmetics. Absorbs excess oil, purifies pores, detoxifies skin, remineralizes and gently exfoliates. It can be drying to the skin, although its absorbent properties are useful for oily skin.
  • Glycerin : Tested in Clarins Men’s Anti-Wrinkle Cream for Men .
  • Acacia Senegal Gum : Tested in Cien’s Orchid Wrinkle Filler .
  • Xanthan Gum : Tested in L’Oreal Men Expert’s Vita Lift 5 Anti-Wrinkle Cream for Men .
  • Benzyl Alcohol : Tested in Nuxellence de Nuxe eye contour .
  • Alcohol : Tested in Shiseido Men’s Anti-Wrinkle Cream for Men as Alcohol Denat.
  • Sodium Dehydroacetate : Tested in Clarins Men’s Anti-Wrinkle Cream for Men .
  • Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil : Analyzed in Dr. Dennis Gross’s Ferulic + Retinol Serum .
  • Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract : Tested in the Clinique Smart eye contour .
  • Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil : Analyzed in the Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Eye eye contour .
  • Dehydroacetic Acid : Analyzed in the Nuxellence de Nuxe eye contour .
  • Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract : Analyzed in the Lancaster Skin Therapy eye contour .
  • Coffea Robusta Seed Extract : Analyzed in Apivita’s Rose Pepper Firming Cream .
  • Carbomer : Analyzed in the Youth Eye Complex eye contour from iS Clinical .
  • Cupressus Sempervirens Oil : Analyzed in Dermalogica’s Age Smart anti-wrinkle cream .
  • Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Oil : Analyzed in Apivita’s Men´s Care anti-wrinkle cream .
  • Commiphora Myrrha Oil : Used topically, Myrrh Essential Oil works as a powerful antioxidant that maintains the health of the complexion by facilitating the disappearance of unwanted spots, relieves itching and reduces the symptoms of eczema among other skin ailments. Cleanses, hydrates and tightens the complexion effectively, reducing and preventing the formation of cracks and sagging.
  • Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Oil : Tested in Lab Series Night Recovery Lotion .
  • Anthemis Nobilis Flower Oil : Analyzed in the Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye contour .
  • Papain: Papain is a protein-degrading enzyme found naturally in papaya and is often referred to as “plant-based pepsin.” The cosmetic industry uses papain in exfoliating treatments to remove dead cells from the surface. In 2015, scientists from the Messerli Research Institute of the Vienna University of Veterinary Medicine, the Medical University of Vienna and the University of Vienna discovered that when humans or animals come into contact with papain, severe allergic reactions from papain can occur. the skin. The complexion is made up of several layers held together through cellular connections called junctions. The Vienna team showed that papain induces a breakdown of these cell junctions. In the epidermis, papain causes a loss of barrier function. After a short period of time, papain increased vascular permeability and inflammatory cells infiltrated the skin. The researchers state that “the exposed mice not only experienced a loss of barrier function, but also had a specific allergic sensitization to papain. The authors conclude that people with sensitive skin, as well as young children, should avoid the enzyme.
  • Petroselinum Crispum (Parsley) Seed Oil: Essential oil of parsley seeds, with antioxidant properties due to the high amounts of vitamin C it contains. The high amount of vitamin C in parsley nourishes the complexion from within to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and scars. This is achieved by increasing collagen production, interacting positively with the amino acids in collagen cells. It also contains beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A for proper maintenance and repair of the dermis, thus improving the elasticity of the skin, delaying wrinkles and speeding up the wound healing process. It works wonders to erase dark circles. It contains a high amount of vitamin C, chlorophyll and vitamin K, which help to lighten the complexion under the eyes and even reduce puffiness. The volatile oils in parsley, particularly eugenol, they provide antibacterial and antifungal effects that are useful for treating acne, blackheads, skin infections, and disinfecting pores. And finally, it helps balance excess sebaceous secretion in oily skin. Plus, it helps clear your pores, which could otherwise lead to breakouts. The zinc in parsley controls the inflammation of the complexion and promotes its regeneration. It also reduces redness and diminishes acne blemishes. which could otherwise lead to breakouts. The zinc in parsley controls the inflammation of the complexion and promotes its regeneration. It also reduces redness and diminishes acne blemishes. which could otherwise lead to breakouts. The zinc in parsley controls the inflammation of the complexion and promotes its regeneration. It also reduces redness and diminishes acne blemishes.
  • 1,2-Hexanediol : Analyzed in Mercadona’s Sisbela eye contour .
  • Caprylyl Glycol : Analyzed in the Youth Eye Complex from iS Clinical .
  • Sodium Benzoate : Analyzed in the Nuxellence de Nuxe eye contour .
  • Lactic Acid : Analyzed in the Lancaster Skin Therapy eye contour .
  • Potassium Sorbate : Tested in Clarins Men’s Anti-Wrinkle Cream for Men .
  • Algin : Analyzed in the Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye contour .
  • Sodium Citrate : Tested in L’Oreal Men Expert’s Vita Lift 5 Anti-Wrinkle Cream for Men .
  • Citric Acid : Analyzed in Fiori di Cipria’s anti-wrinkle cream for men .
  • Ci 77491 (Iron Oxides) : Tested in the Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye contour .
  • Ci 77499 (Iron Oxides) : Analyzed in the Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye contour .
  • Limonene : Tested in Clarins Men’s Anti-Wrinkle Cream for Men .
  • Linalool : Tested in Clarins Men’s Anti-Wrinkle Cream for Men .

Like the previous product, kaolin is the base of the mask, a very useful ingredient to purge the pores of the oil and dirt that accumulate throughout the day. She also uses yet another clay to purify pores, exfoliate, and revitalize the complexion.

It is followed by several botanical ingredients that combine bergamot oil, which balances the production of fat; grape extract, a great antioxidant and anti-inflammatory; Lavender extract, antibacterial and healing; or coffee extract, another antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.

Other essential oils to highlight are cypress, with astringent properties; sage, which balances fat; myrrh, antioxidant and anti-stain; sandalwood, which cleanses the pores; chamomile, anti-inflammatory and soothing; and parsley, healing and antibacterial.

And it also includes papaya enzymes, which gently exfoliate to remove dead cells, brighten skin, and tone.

Inside the INCI we have found an irritating ingredient for the eyes, so you have to be careful when applying it.

It’s clear that it’s a clay product with ingredients that are meant to cleanse pores, exfoliate, and help detoxify contaminants from the skin.

The container is a convenient tube with a nice wooden lid that is easy to use. The product itself is a richly textured pink clay that is very soft. The color and aroma remind me of Caladryl lotion mixed with essential oils.

You don’t need a large amount to cover your entire face, but a slightly thicker layer is recommended on problem spots. It can be used as a full mask, or as a spot treatment for spots.

You just have to let it act for 10-15 minutes, and then remove it completely with warm water. The complexion will be fresh, hydrated and very soft.

SK-II Facial Treatment Mask

Galactomyces fermentation filtrate, a yeast found in sake, is the key (and only) ingredient in this luxurious Asian mask.

Although it is a good ingredient capable of preventing the loss of moisture from the epidermis by strengthening the barrier, preventing blemishes, reducing acne and open pores, increasing the absorption of nutrients and minimizing sensitivity, it is accompanied by a paraben.

It goes without saying how damaging these preservatives are to your complexion and health, in the short and long term, so it’s best avoided. The product works, but it is very expensive and can prove harmful over time.

You can enter the complete technical analysis in the following article: SK-II Treatment Mask Facial Mask, Analysis and Alternative .

Laneige Sleeping Water Mask

An ultra-hydrating mask to leave on overnight, leaving your complexion fuller, juicier and more moisturized. Its texture is more like a gel, so it is easily applied to the skin.

It leaves a hyper refreshing sensation, and its effects are noticeable as soon as you put it on the skin. It is perfect for when the dermis needs extra hydration, but cannot clean the pores in depth, or provide any anti-aging benefit.

Silicones do a lot of the work, so if your skin doesn’t tolerate them, I’m afraid it’s not an option for you. Hyaluronic acid is in a great concentration, and there are also several minerals.

You can enter the complete technical analysis in the following article: Laneige’s Sleeping Water Mask, Analysis and Alternative .

Advanced Night Repair PowerFoil Concentrate Mask by Estee Lauder

This sheet mask is infused with a concentrated serum packed with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, hydrating and soothing ingredients that will help reverse the signs of aging.

Caffeine, hyaluronic acid, seaweed extracts, mangosteen, milk thistle, birch or magnolia are the great assets, although some are more concentrated than others.

It is good to use it occasionally as a nutritional extra, or when we need immediate lighting results. It’s not very moisturizing though, and it can’t deep clean pores either. It is a great cosmetic, although there are a couple of irritating ingredients, and its price is somewhat steep.

You can enter the complete technical analysis in the following article: Advanced Night Repair PowerFoil Concentrated Mask by Estee Lauder, Analysis and Alternative .

L’Oreal Pure Clays Detox Effect Mask

3 clays and activated carbon are the main and practically the only active ingredients in this mask. That’s why it works very well to absorb oil, clean pores and remove dirt from the complexion, while mattifying shine and not leaving the skin tight or dry.

But it also does not provide any nutrients or vitamins that brighten or activate the complexion. Or even prevent any signs of aging. So it falls a little short of benefits.

In addition, it has few ingredients, and there are up to four irritating compounds, in addition to perfume, which can irritate the most sensitive skin. It is a product that we do not recommend because it does more harm than good.

You can enter the complete technical analysis in the following article: L’Oreal Pure Clays Detox Effect Mask, Analysis and Alternative .

Why you should use a face mask

They are one of the favorite skin care products of all beauty addicts. They act quickly, are easy to apply, and leave a feeling of healthy and fresh complexion that few cosmetics achieve.

Everyone should use them. No matter what type of complexion you have, there is a mask to address your worries and problems . It can help hydrate dry skin, reduce the appearance of pores, calm irritated complexions, remove oil and impurities that cleansers cannot, and nourish the dermis with highly concentrated antioxidant actives.

It is the closest thing to receiving a professional skin treatment, because in addition to hydrating and nourishing, it allows you to take a deep breath, relax and stimulate your senses with its fragrance during those 15 minutes of waiting.

And by eliminating impurities, dead cells, detoxifying pores, and leaving the complexion hydrated, it manages to reveal its natural glow, the one that dull and stressed skin lacks. All are advantages!

What is the best option for my skin?

With all the variety of masks to choose from, how do I know which one is the best for my specific complexion? Easy, you just have to read the ingredients. Here are some suggestions:

  • Mixed and greasy : They must include clay or kaolin (or both) to absorb excess oil, without drying the skin or stripping it of its natural oils. Salicylic acid can also help prevent blemishes and blackheads, and clear up acne. While activated charcoal is perfect for extracting impurities from pores.
  • Dry : Ingredients such as honey, shea butter or hyaluronic acid must be present in these types of masks, as they deeply hydrate dry skin. Avoid all those that include alcohol, as it is drying.
  • Sensitive : Calendula or licorice extract can help soothe the skin and relieve irritation. Avoid fragrances and perfumes, as well as irritating and harmful ingredients, such as preservatives or parabens.
  • Ripe : Choose ingredients that treat and prevent aging, such as antioxidants: vitamin C, E, grape seed oil, squalane, etc.

How to use it?

To get the best results with the mask, you must use it correctly. Generally, each brand explains its way of use, although you should take into account some extra tips.

ALWAYS apply the product with a clean complexion , because if it is not, all the dirt, pollution and impurities accumulated during the day will prevent the active ingredients from being properly absorbed, and you will not get any benefit.

Less is more. Do not leave it on the face for more than 20 minutes . If you take too long, it can cause skin irritation. Always follow the time indications.

It is important to read all the instructions that come with the mask before applying it to your face, and never go to sleep with the mask on (unless otherwise noted).

If it is a sheet, do not wash your face after removing it. If you have serum on your complexion, gently massage it in with your fingers until it is completely absorbed.

If you want, you can apply a moisturizer to your face afterward. And if it’s daytime and you’re going out, don’t forget your sunscreen.

Generally, it should be used once or twice a day , although some types can be used daily. It also does not matter what time of day you use it, morning, afternoon or night, when it is most convenient for you.

And so far the article with the best face masks, we hope we have been able to help you.

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Kathie Sand always saw the world of beauty as the terrain on which to build her professional career, a goal that was clear to her when she was only 15 years old. Her great concern to expand knowledge led her to settle in Paris where she studied hand in hand with the best beauty professionals and with the most advanced techniques for skin care.

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