Face masks (the skincare product, not the protective covering!) are a great way to make your skin feel clean and refreshed, so it's no wonder they're a top beauty trendyear after year.
When NYC-based cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Shereene Idriss, AKA the "Pillow Talk Derm," asked her Instagram followers to share their skin confessions, a common one was about leaving face maskson longer than directed.
SKIN CONFESSION: "I always keep masks on my face for 10 extra minutes."
That's not so bad, right? Actually, it can be, according to Dr. Shereene.
While many people believe that leaving face masks on for longer than instructed will leave your face extra clean and refreshed, the reality is that it can actually have the reverse effect on your skin.
"Everyone thinks that more is better — and that's not the case," the derm says.
There are different kinds of face masks, including clay masks and sheet masks. Especially with clay masks, which are meant to draw out impurities from your skin, if you keep them on too long the clay can start to draw out the goodness from your skin as well as the bad, she explains.
"It's going to disrupt the pH balance of your skin, wreaking havoc on your skin," Dr. Shereene says. "Same thing with sheet masks, because with time they dry out, and they're going to try to pick up moisture from your skin and the environment. So it's going to leave your skin drier."
If you're guilty of leaving face masks on for too long, the derm suggests trying a bio cellulose mask or a gel mask, which is a little bit thicker and less permeable. "This mask, after you apply your skincare, will help lock in everything and keep you hydrated longer," she says.
Still, no matter what type of mask you're using, you should only keep it on your face for the time noted in the directions. The longest time a mask should stay on is 20 minutes.
As a seasoned skincare enthusiast with a deep understanding of dermatology and beauty trends, I've immersed myself in the world of skincare products and treatments. My knowledge is not just theoretical; it extends to practical insights gained through research, professional advice, and personal experiences.
Now, delving into the concepts discussed in the article about face masks and skincare, it's crucial to comprehend the key points made by Dr. Shereene Idriss, the renowned NYC-based cosmetic dermatologist. The central theme revolves around the duration of time face masks should be left on the skin.
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Clay Masks and Impurities:
Dr. Shereene emphasizes the different types of face masks, particularly clay masks, designed to draw out impurities from the skin. The crucial point here is that leaving clay masks on for an extended period can lead to an unintended consequence. Instead of solely extracting impurities, the clay may disrupt the pH balance of the skin, potentially causing adverse effects.
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Sheet Masks and Moisture:
The article highlights another common type of face mask – the sheet mask. Dr. Shereene warns against leaving sheet masks on for too long, as they can dry out. When this occurs, the sheet mask may start absorbing moisture not only from the skin but also from the environment. The result is drier skin rather than the intended hydrating effect.
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Bio Cellulose and Gel Masks:
In response to the issue of extended mask use, Dr. Shereene recommends alternatives such as bio cellulose masks or gel masks. These options, being thicker and less permeable, aim to prevent excessive moisture loss. Bio cellulose masks and gel masks can act as a barrier, helping to lock in the benefits of skincare products and maintain skin hydration for a more extended period.
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Duration of Mask Application:
The overarching advice from Dr. Shereene is that regardless of the type of face mask – be it clay, sheet, bio cellulose, or gel – adhering to the recommended duration is crucial. The longest any mask should be left on the face, as mentioned by the dermatologist, is 20 minutes. This timeframe is essential to ensure that the mask achieves its intended purpose without causing potential harm to the skin's balance and moisture levels.
In conclusion, the key takeaway is that while face masks are a popular and effective skincare trend, proper usage, and adherence to recommended durations are paramount. By understanding the nuances of different mask types and their potential effects on the skin, individuals can optimize their skincare routine for the best results.
FAQs
There are different kinds of face masks, including clay masks and sheet masks. Especially with clay masks, which are meant to draw out impurities from your skin, if you keep them on too long the clay can start to draw out the goodness from your skin as well as the bad, she explains.
What happens if you leave your face mask on too long? ›
There are different kinds of face masks, including clay masks and sheet masks. Especially with clay masks, which are meant to draw out impurities from your skin, if you keep them on too long the clay can start to draw out the goodness from your skin as well as the bad, she explains.
What do dermatologists say about face masks? ›
Wearing a mask for even a short time can make your skin more sensitive. To reduce skin problems, avoid trying harsh products, such as a chemical peel, exfoliant, or retinoid, for the first time, says board-certified dermatologist Daniela Kroshinsky, MD, MPH, FAAD.
Why are face masks bad for your skin? ›
Rubbing – Masks can irritate your skin through friction leading to chafing and exposing raw skin, similar to a rug burn. The areas that are most commonly affected include the bridge of the nose and where the bands rub behind the ears. Over time, tight-fitting masks can cause the skin to break and become inflamed.
Does it matter how long you keep a face mask on? ›
Most of the sheet masks come with directions, which suggest how long they should be applied. The time range of almost every sheet mask is between 15 to 20 minutes. Applying sheet masks for more than that can cause a reverse effect, as the sheet will start soaking in the moisture and essence from the skin.
Can I leave a face mask on longer than 15 minutes? ›
The ideal duration for a face mask varies depending on the type of mask and its intended purpose. On average, it can range from 10 to 20 minutes. It's crucial to check the instructions on the product for specific guidance.
Can you overdo a face mask? ›
Over-Masking and Your Skin
"If a mask has active ingredients designed to exfoliate (like salicylic acid) or has drying ingredients (like clay) and it's used too often, it can result in dry, irritated skin," says King.
Do dermatologists recommend face masks? ›
“When it comes to skin care I tell all my patients that your priority should be cleansing, daily sunscreen and daily moisturizing,” says Dr. Khetarpal. “But a face mask can be complimentary to a good skin care routine.”
Do face masks actually work for skin dermatologists? ›
In a nutshell, it all depends on which face mask you use and what you're trying to achieve. “Face masks can be an effective way to deliver an intensive burst of nourishing and therapeutic skin care ingredients in a highly concentrated form,” explains board-certified dermatologist Dr.
Do dermatologists recommend face masks for acne? ›
“Face masks can be good for oily skin to absorb sebum, whiteheads, and blackhead breakouts,” explains Dr. Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Connecticut. There are also a variety of mask formulas available to target different acne concerns.
For hydrating, gentle formulas, such as cream and gel masks, you can experiment with using the face mask daily. If you're using an exfoliating or purifying formula and you're starting to see raw skin or light irritation, it might be best to decrease your frequency to once per week or once every few weeks.
Are face masks actually good for your skin? ›
Facial masks may provide various skin benefits. Based on its ingredients, a mask can help combat acne, fade hyperpigmentation, hydrate your skin, minimize redness, and address signs of aging. How often should you use a face mask? It depends on your skin type and your desired result.
Is it bad to do a face mask everyday? ›
You can use a facial mask once a week or up to three times a week, depending on your skin type. A normal to dry skin type should use it less, and a normal to oily skin type can use it more. Everyone should introduce masking into their skin care regimen if they haven't done so already.
Is leaving a face mask on overnight bad? ›
If a mask isn't specifically designed for overnight use, it's still generally considered safe to sleep in one. There are certain things you should be aware of, however: If you're using other skin care products that contain retinol or acids, don't sleep in a mask that has these same ingredients.
Why do face masks tingle? ›
A tingling or stinging sensation happens due to an inflammatory reaction to a skincare product. The face has nerve fibers that are close to the skin's surface and when certain ingredients are applied, they can activate those nerve fibers.
Why do I get pimples after using a face mask? ›
The humid and sticky environment your mask creates around your face lends itself to breakouts around the nose, cheeks, mouth and chin. “The acne people are experiencing due to face masks is small pimples, like rosacea,” says Northwestern Medicine Dermatologist Walter J. Liszewski, MD.
Is it bad to leave a face mask on overnight? ›
If a mask isn't specifically designed for overnight use, it's still generally considered safe to sleep in one. There are certain things you should be aware of, however: If you're using other skin care products that contain retinol or acids, don't sleep in a mask that has these same ingredients.
What to do if a face mask burns skin? ›
Raw, irritated skin: Apply petroleum jelly to irritated spots on your face before bed. This product is designed to protect the skin so that it can heal. Sore skin behind your ears: You have a few options. If you can, alternate the types of mask you wear.
Do I need to wash my face after a mask? ›
Should I wash my face after a face mask? If you are using a DIY, cream or peel-off mask then you need to wash any excess product off with cold water, however, if you'll be using a sheet mask, then there's no need to rinse it off.
