If you’ve been wondering if it’s better to utilize a face mask before or after a shower, you’ve probably seen conflicting information online. The key to this decision depends on the type of mask you’re using and your skin type – it’s sometimes about time.
Find out what types of masks are best before or after a shower to get smoother skin.
How to effectively apply a face mask
The goal of a face mask depends on its type. Some masks are designed to dry out excess sebum (oil) and oily skin types, while others replenish moisture loss in dry skin. Some face masks correct the uneven complexion, while others may contain exfoliators to help remove dead skin cells.
Despite the sort of mask, there are some vital steps to applying it appropriately:
- First, clean your face with your regular cleanser.
- Use the mask in a thin layer and apply it to the entire face. Beware of areas around your eyes as well as lips. You can also layer on the neck and décolleté.
- Some masks require you to rub them into your skin for a few seconds – this is mostly the case with exfoliating products. Read the instructions in advance if something needs to be clarified for you.
- Wait for 5 to 20 minutes, depending on the instructions for use, and in general, drying masks for oily skin last much less time, while moisturizing and anti-aging masks last longer – in some cases overnight.
- Wash off with warm water. Use a soft clean cloth for easier removal.
- Use your regular toner, lotion, moisturizer, and sunscreen.
How often you apply a face mask depends on your skin type. Anti-aging masks can be used several times a week, and for oily skin – 2-3 times. Moisturizing masks can also be used several times a week. If you have sensitive skin, you may need to use a face mask once a week.
Should I utilize a face mask before or after a shower?
While a weekly face mask can be critical to your overall skin care regimen, including it as an extra step can feel lengthy. You may have heard that you can save time by incorporating a mask into your shower routine, mainly with a liquid or mud mask. This is a feasible way to put on a face mask. However, there are a few catches.
First, you still need to cleanse your face before using the mask to get rid of surface dirt, oil, and makeup. This can be done in some different ways. You can wash your face in the sink and apply a mask before entering the shower. Or you can clean your face in the shower, use the mask there, and keep it on while doing the rest of your bathing routine. The caveat with the second approach is that you won’t have a chance to see how evenly you have applied the mask in the shower, and the water may pass through it before it’s finished curing.
Another option is to shower, wash your face, and apply a mask. This method works exceptionally well with deep cleansing masks such as mud and charcoal masks for oily and combination skin. Bathing primarily allows your pores to open with warm water and steam, preparing your skin for deeper cleansing.
If you have drier skin, applying the mask before showering is best. This helps protect against moisture from your mask as well as from showering. Be sure to use an emollient-rich moisturizer immediately after getting out of the shower.
If you want to use the mask without showering, follow the directions and the steps.
Sheet masks are used in slightly different ways. They must be used consistently before the rest of your skincare regimen. However, the product that remains after you get rid of the mask is meant to be rubbed into the skin, so you’ll need to do this after you shower, so you don’t accidentally wash it off.
The other exception is the overnight therapeutic mask. True to their name, these masks are meant to be left on overnight and washed off during the morning cleansing of the face. To use this mask, you can follow your regular skin routine and then use the mask last. Often, a night mask is used instead of a daily moisturizer, depending on how dry your skin is. Overnight masks are mostly thicker and creamier and usually meant for dry to typical skin types.
Know your skin kind
Using a face mask before or after a shower depends on your skin type and time constraints. The answer also depends greatly on what kind of mask you use. By understanding a few tips, you will be much better able to add a mask to your skincare routine and shower regularly to reap the full benefits of skin improvement and rejuvenation.
