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Face Mask Mistakes You Need To Avoid

Rhiannon Ball

April 29, 2020

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Masking is a great way to give your skin the extra boost it needs, whether its for hydration, oil-control, acne-treatment, or resurfacing. While it may seem as simple as slapping on the mask and waiting a few minutes, there’s more to it than that! There are a few tips and common mistakes you should know to get the most out of your masking experience.

Not cleansing your skin beforehand

Face masks can do wonders, but you should start with a clean “canvas.” Make sure your face is makeup-free and you’ve used a gentle cleanser before you apply the face mask. This way your skin will get the full benefits of the mask!

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You’re leaving it on too long

Masks always come with a recommended leave-on time on the packaging. You might be tempted to leave it on longer thinking you’ll get greater benefits or, more likely, you get busy and distracted after putting the mask on. However, leaving a mask on too long may have negative side-effects, such as overdrying skin or leaving skin prone to pimples. This is particularly true if you’re using a mask to treat oil or acne. Instead, always adhere to the leave-on time listed on the mask’s packaging, setting an alarm on your phone if you think you’ll lose track of time.

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Washing your face right after you mask

Okay, so some masks (think, charcoal) you need to completely wash off, but only do this if you must! Some face masks, especially sheet masks, have serums and other good-for-you ingredients that are best left on your skin to soak in for longer. Always read the packaging for instructions and to know whether you should be washing post-mask, leaving it alone overnight, or rubbing in the excess once you’re done.

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Using the wrong formula

Just because there’s a new mask that everyone is talking about doesn’t mean it’s right for your skin type. Using the wrong formula may end up causing more skin issues than it fixes. If your skin is shiny, check out these face masks for Oily Skin. Parched skin? Take a look at these options for dry skin. Breaking out? You need one of these 5 face masks for acne-prone skin. Seeing signs of aging? Don’t worry, that’s natural! But if you want to help your skin age well, check out the 5 best face masks for mature skin! It doesn’t matter what type of skin you have, just ensure you choose an appropriate mask. It’s also important to know whether your skin is sensitive, as you should look for a clean beauty brand or a mask that specifically says it’s formulated for sensitive skin using gentle ingredients.

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Using the same mask year-round

Different weather generally calls for different face masks! In colder temperatures, you may want an ultra-hydrating mask, while in the summer you likely need oil control. It’s okay to have a favorite mask but make sure it’s what your skin really needs. Better yet, have a few masks up your skincare “sleeve” to address different concerns at different points in the year. Two great face masks for the winter are Drunk Elephant F-Balm Electrolyte Waterfacial Mask or Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Hydrating Mask. In the summer, when skin may be more oily, the Pai Copaiba Deep Cleanse AHA Mask is a great option.

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Drying your face with a dirty towel

After both initially washing your face and when you wash your mask off, you’ll undoubtedly need to dry off your face. You probably typically reach for a bath or hand towel on the drying rack in your bathroom, but you could be sabotaging your skin if you do this. The bacteria, oil, dead skin cells, dust/dirt, and makeup on a used towel (even if it doesn’t appear to be dirty) can transfer to your face when you dry it, which can ultimately cause blocked pores, pimples, and irritation. After spending half an hour or more masking, this is the last thing you want! Instead, use a clean hand towel or facecloth to dry skin, immediately putting it in the laundry hamper afterward. Your new rule? Every time a towel touches your face, it should be a freshly laundered one.