Saturday 9 June 2012

The matter of masks

There are many benefits to using a face mask the main one being to improve your skin condition. If you think about what happens when you have a facial there is a lot of cleaning (double cleanse, tone, exfoliation) followed by a massage to increase blood and lymph circulation and also improve muscle tone. The final step is the use of a treatment mask which is chosen specifically to suit and improve your skin. Giving yourself a mini facial or applying a mask at home is a fantastic way to see results without sending you broke. Make sure you have thoroughly cleansed before applying your mask and also leave it on long enough to work, most have instructions on the packaging but in the spa the general rule of thumb is 15-20 minutes. I just purchased Kama Ayurveda Lavanya Natural Plant Mask which contains sweet flag and liquorice for antiseptic properties and also Lodhra which is a blood purifier. It comes in a powdered form as most Ayurveda products do as they are pure and natural ingredients. You make a paste with rosewater (normal/combination skin) or milk (dry skin) according to your skin type.



I was surprised how active this felt on my skin when I applied it, I could actually feel it working. I'm really interested to see the results after a few uses.The best part about this mask is the cost, just over $5 AUS, almost unbelievable! Although this product isn't available in Australia I thought you might be interested in learning about some new ingredients and their properties. I have recommended a few masks that I like for different skin types below.

Normal/Dry skin - L'occitane Immortelle Cream Mask $62 125ml
This a beautiful product, you can use as a cream mask or overnight if your skin needs extra hydration and nourishment. It contains essential oil from the Immortelle flower which defies ageing, it never wilts or withers even after being picked, so luxurious!

Sensitive skin - Algologie Comfort Mask $64 75ml
Although pricey this is a heaven sent if you want to reduce the appearance of broken capillaries or calm red irritated skin. It contains white clay to help with cell regeneration. I have used this mask when giving my Mum a facial and it gave some beautiful results.


Combination/ Oily skin - Alpha-H Purifying Clay Mask $30 100g
I haven't tried this myself yet but can't wait to give it a go when I'm back in Australia. I have been reading great reviews and think it's a fantastic price. It is a deep cleansing clay mask with Vitamin A for healing and jojoba to help balance oily skin.

If you already own a clay mask and want it to work dual action here is a good spa tip. Use as normal and leave to dry if you are feeling oily or congested. If your skin is feeling dry or dehydrated try 'wet packing' once your mask is applied. To do this fold some tissues in half and place them over your face. I usually use one across the forehead, one down either cheek and one on the chin and neck. Once this tissues are in place dampen them with a wet face cloth or facial mit. This will prevent your mask from drying out your skin too much but still give you the benefits although, you may look like a mummy so don't answer the door!

No comments:

Post a Comment