Amp Up Your Skin Care Game and Mask Like A Pro

It’s amazing how quickly the right mask can bring balance to problematic skin — whether you’re looking to add moisture to a dull, dehydrated complexion, calm irritation or combat congestion. But the benefits are heightened when you amp up your skin-care game and mask like a pro. Here are a few ways you can take this tried-and-true beauty ritual to the next level and maximize your results.

Know Your Skin Type

Sharing is caring, right? Sure, but not when it comes to your skin care. What may work wonders for one skin type could be disastrous for another. This is not an exaggeration. Get your mask recommendations from an expert, not your girlfriends.

Exfoliation is Key

If you’re masking over dead skin cells you’re doing nothing for your complexion. Make sure your skin is cleansed and exfoliated before you mask. I prefer a chemical exfoliation (peel) to a mechanical one (scrub). My top choices are the Red Carpet Facial or the Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Peel. Either option can be used immediately before masking.

Okay, Now We Can Have a Little Fun

Normal to Dry Complexions

If your skin is dry, start by massaging coconut oil in a circular, upward motion — you could also opt for a high-quality vitamin C serum to up your glow. Next, apply a generous amount of your dry-skin mask, but rather than painting it on with your fingers, or using a brush, actively massage it into the skin. After massaging your mask for a couple of minutes, apply another layer and leave on for an additional 15 minutes. For a moisture boost, add a teaspoon of honey to your mask.

Oh, and one more thing: Do not let your mask dry out. Similar to how a clay mask works, it will draw moisture from the skin. Mask while in the shower or tub, the steam will keep it moist.

Normal to Oily Complexions

I love creating masks for oily skin — when done right they can be a very powerful tool in your arsenal. When buying a mask for oily skin, opt for simple, mineral-based mud masks, particularly ones containing sulfur or zinc. AHA or vitamin C serums are an excellent base for your mask, but skip the massage. You’ll only encourage an increase in oil production. One of my favorite at-home tips for treating oily skin is to add a little bit of charcoal to your mask.

Combination Skin

Don’t be afraid to mix and match! If you have dry cheeks and an oily t-zone, treat each area with the mask best suited for its concern. That’s how professionals mask their clients, and themselves — there’s no reason you can’t do the same.

And Finally, Eyes and Lips

The lips, as well as the skin around your eyes, are considerably more sensitive than the rest of your face. This is when a custom mask can really come in handy. Here is one of my favorite recipes: 

• 1 teaspoon of honey
• 1/4 teaspoon of egg yolk
• A few drops of olive oil, marula oil, coconut oil or a combination of the three

Mix together and apply around the eyes in a circular motion, and just above your lips to prevent those dreaded wrinkles around your mouth. Of course you could just use The Eye Cream, which has all the benefits of the ingredients above, plus more.

Enjoy!

–Olga