Unless otherwise specified, you should always apply your face mask to clean, dry skin. We also recommend gently exfoliating before masking to help whisk away any surface debris (like dead skin) that could interfere with your mask application.
Applying to damp skin will help lock in the moisture. It will help if you have dry skin. If you have oily skin I'd wait till your skin is dry to apply.
It depends on the mask. Some masks should be applied to damp skin, some to dry. Usually it will say in the instructions on the mask.
Clay is a natural but living product, moisture is essential for its effectiveness. To prevent the clay mask from drying out and drying your skin, apply the mask in a thick layer and moisten it well during installation.
Don't apply the moisturizer immediately after washing off the face mask. Give the active ingredients some time to get fully absorbed by the skin. Take a dollop of moisturizer, warm it between your fingers to help it penetrate deeper, and then massage into the skin using upward motions.
Clay face masks should ideally be left on for no more than 15 minutes; however, you should read the instructions as each can vary. You are at risk of your skin drying out if you leave your clay mask on for too long.
They can be used at any time of the day. However, if you're using a mask that exfoliates or clarifies your skin, then it's best to use that at night. But if you're using one that hydrates the skin, then you should apply it in the morning to give your skin an added glow.
There's no denying that towels can be harsh on your skin. This can lead to unwanted redness and can especially irritate those with sensitive skin. Air-drying your face allows you to ditch the rough, irritating towel and give your skin a much-needed breather with no rubbing required.
Leaving the mask on for too long
This will cause the sheet mask to start reabsorbing all the serum that has just been deposited on your face. In some cases, it could also pull out the moisture from your skin.
Your Skin Feels Cleaner and Fresher
One of the immediate signs that a clay mask is working is the sensation of clean, refreshed skin. After rinsing off the mask, your skin should feel smoother, less oily, and thoroughly cleansed.
Toner: After rinsing off the mask, apply a gentle toner to help rebalance your skin's pH levels.
You do not need to apply a clay mask every day. Instead, use it once or twice a week to see results and minimize side effects like skin irritation. 3 There are many types of clay masks, so it's important to choose the best one for your skin type and concerns.
“The drying action is in fact drawing excess moisture from the skin, stripping it of its natural protective oils and compromising the barrier function. Furthermore, certain ingredients, once dry, can cause skin inflammation, which can present as itchy, red blotchy skin.”
When clay pulls dirt from your skin, it also removes your skin's normal oils - the natural moisturising factors that keep your skin nourished and bouncy. If you've ever used a clay mask and gotten that tight, itchy feeling as it dries, I'm here to tell you that this is the mask sucking up all your natural moisture.
It is best to use warm, not hot, water when bathing or washing the face because hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils. Spending too much time in water can remove sebum from the skin. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends limiting showers and baths to 5–10 minutes or less to help heal dry skin.
Dry and dehydrated skin lacks moisture which makes your skin tight, itchy, and uncomfortable, causing the urge to scratch. Scratching can further irritate the skin and cause damage to it, leading to redness, dry patches, and even infection. To avoid all of these, simply use a moisturiser that suits you!
The general rule of thumb for a clay mask is to let it dry at least 3 minutes, but no longer than 20. While you may feel that leaving clay on for hours will deeply decongest the skin, in reality, it will wind up upsetting your pH balance, causing more problems than you started with.
Indeed, for increased effectiveness, it is important to exfoliate your skin BEFORE applying your mask. The epidermis - that is to say the superficial layer of our skin on which a care product acts - is made up of dead cells (the “cosmeocytes”) which form a protective skin barrier.
In the skincare world, you'll see kaolin clay as the headlining ingredient in clay masks because of its ability to absorb oil. This oil-absorbing quality makes kaolin clay masks one of the best solutions for clogged pores.
Purging subsides within 4-6 weeks as the skin adjusts. Allergic Reaction: Presents as red, itchy bumps, hives, or swelling. These symptoms persist or worsen until you stop using the product. If you suspect an allergic reaction, discontinue the product immediately and consult a dermatologist.
Once your mask has set and dried, wet a clean face washer with lukewarm water and rub away the clay in small, circular motions. Repeat until all mask is removed. Next, reach for a clean towel and lightly pat your skin until dry. Once you've rinsed and dried, your skin will be feeling ahhh-mazingly soft and rejuvenated!