Why Masking is More Important than You Think-and Why You Need to Make it a Weekly Ritual

Why Masking is More Important than You Think-and Why You Need to Make it a Weekly Ritual

Masking seems to be one of the more superfluous parts of skincare. Doing a 15 minute treatment 1-2 times a week? I mean, how much can it really help? 

A LOT. 

To be completely frank, you just aren’t using the right products. Less than a year ago, I was in the exact same boat. Buying random sheet masks from clothing stores and trying out masks because the color was pretty and perfect for a selfie (I wish I could say I was kidding, but I’m not). 

Finding the right mask for your skin is just as important to doing the mask itself. Whether it’s a sheet, wash off, or sleeping mask, adding an extra boost of moisture or some other added benefit to your skincare routine is great. Not to mention an extra dose of self care— taking 10 to 20 minutes to really focus on your skin and relax is a great way to end the day. Here are some old and new favorites of mine. 

Laneige Water Sleeping Mask: An Allure Award Winner, this sleeping mask is a real gem. It’s an incredibly gentle gel-esque mask, and goes on like a dream. I have a friend with uber-sensitive skin, and it helped moisturize her skin without causing a breakout. Makes your skin incredibly soft the next morning, and it doesn’t stick to your pillow or make your face look tacky. It comes in a lavender version, but I haven’t tried it...I’m always suspicious of face products with a lot of fragrance. Find it here. 

Glossier Moisturizing Moon Mask: Let’s be real— if I ever make a post without glossier (granted, that isn’t brand-specific or less than 3 items) I’m being held hostage and it’s my cry for help. This mask is RAD. Leave it on for 15 minutes, wash off, and you have a baby’s butt for a face. Leaves the skin smooth, soft, and glowy, without making it look greasy. Also, it goes on pretty sheer/white if you pack it on thick, so you don’t look like a serial killer when you sneak into the kitchen to grab a bowl of corn chips (from personal experience). Find it here. 

Aritaum Sheet Masks: These are the BOMB. At $1.50 a piece, they really pack a punch. The Hyaluronic Acid is the most popular version, but my favorites are also Collagen, Shea Butter, Pearl, Pomegranate, and Honey. Not to mention that if you actually buy them at an Aritaum Store (they have them in H-Mart ladies and gents!) They usually do some sort of buy-one-get-one deal. These actually make a real visual difference in the skin after application. Additionally, for those skincare junkies like myself, there's so much serum in the packet leftover that you can use the extra the next night (LIFE HACK: Never throw away a mask packet— there's usually more serum left in there than there was on the mask itself). Find it here. (Note: this website doesn’t have all versions but I told you the best ones tbh so I wouldn’t trip, just leave your house)

Dr. Jart Dermask Water Jet Soothing Hydra Solution Sheet Mask: This was a good buy, considering I got it at Nordstrom Rack for half the price (don’t sleep on their beauty section— it hasn’t been torn up by fiends like T.J. Maxx). This mask is super soothing and hydrating, as per the name. Another mask from this collection, the Dermask Water Jet Vital Hydra Solution mask was super well reviewed, and I believe it won many awards. Unfortunately for me and you, I didn’t pick that one out because I didn’t know that at the time. It was the first Dr. Jart product I’ve ever tried, and I’m glad I did. However...if I were a broke 17 year old, which I am, I would just go for the Aritaum. When I’m 30 and working a great job however...this will be a staple. Find it here. 

What more can I say? To quote Parks and Recreation, “Treat Yo’ Self”. You deserve a moment of peace and relaxation in this insanity that we call life (Hack: don’t go on twitter for full relaxation). Take a moment to take care of yourself, and your skin and mental health will thank you. Have fun masking!