Surely you’ve heard the buzz around face masks made just for men. But with routines growing in steps, when should one be using a face mask? Which one? And what if you’re concerned with irritation and ingrown hairs? Well, we’ve got some answers for you.
Face Masks: Types & Benefits
Face Masks are available in a few different types. Before we get into it, be sure to follow all instructions of the mask you choose. Pay attention to things like how often to use within a week and how long the mask should rest on your skin before removing.
Clay & Mud masks are often packaged in jars or tubes for easy application. Their formulations are thick, but should spread easily over skin. They are best for drawing out impurities like blackheads, shrinking pores and balancing oily skin types. Another big benefit of these masks is their ability to help with reducing inflammation. Their powerful formulas cleanse on a deeper level than your face wash. One important note with these masks is they do take some time to dry on skin before it’s time to rinse off and continue with your routine.
Sheet Masks arrive in sealed packets. Inside is typically a single, pre-soaked sheet ready to fit over the contours of your face. Ingredients vary greatly with these mask, so it is worth the time to review what it can achieve before making your selection. The most popular sheet masks often offer intense hydration, making them ideal for dry or dull skin types.
Peel-Off Masks can be considered one of the most “invasive” mask types. Always be sure to read and follow instructions as Peel-off masks are often used improperly, which can cause harm. These masks are often in tubes that require only a thin film application to the skin. Once the mask dries, it is peeled from the skin. The peel removes dead skin cells, impurities, excess oil and more.
Grooming Artist Advice: Clay Masks and Peel-Off masks are generally not to be used daily. These masks recommend use at least once a week in most cases. Always test and adjust to your skin type.
Using A Face Mask Your Shaving Routine
- Cleanse with Face Wash → Grab your favorite face wash and apply to damp skin. Be sure to reach creases of your nose, under your jaw, and up to your hairline for a complete clean. For a gentle, deep clean that will leave skin feeling balanced and moisturized, we love a charcoal face wash.
- Get to Shaving → Prep skin with a quality shaving cream or shaving soap. Look for those with glycerin bases for easy glide on sensitive skin. Ingredients like Coconut Acid or Aloe Vera will soften facial hair and hydrate skin with each pass of the blade.
- Apply Face Mask → We recommend a clay mask or hydrating sheet mask post-shave. For those with acne or ingrown hair prone skin, we recommend a Bentonite Clay mask. Bentonite Clay is a powerful, but soothing natural ingredient that’s best for extracting impurities and shrinking pores. This creates less opportunity for dead skin cells or irritants to be left behind, causing discomfort.
- Optional: Apply Aftershave Balm or Facial Moisturizer → Skin should be left feeling soft and hydrated after the face mask is washed off. However, skin type and environment may leave skin feeling tight. You can apply alcohol-free, lotion style aftershave or moisturizer to give skin an extra boost of hydration. Be sure to avoid any exfoliants after your shave.
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