When to do a face mask before a big event
The evening before is a good time for a mask you already know suits you. If it's new to you, try it at least two weeks ahead, because a reaction close to the day is the last thing you want. Don't try anything strong for the first time that week. A mask makes skin feel fresh for a short while, so it's a nice finishing touch rather than a plan.
A simple timeline
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| Two weeks or more before | Patch test anything new, then try a full mask. Note how your skin looks the next day and the day after. |
| The week before | Nothing new. No new actives, peels, or waxing you haven't done before. Ask your therapist about timing. |
| The night before | Cleanse, mask if you've tried it before, moisturise, and get to bed. |
| On the day | Gentle cleanse, moisturiser, sunscreen and makeup. Skip the experiments. |
Why two weeks?
DermNet notes that allergic reactions can appear unexpectedly, and retinoid-type dryness or peeling doesn't always show up straight away. Allowing two weeks gives you time for any reaction to show, and to settle if it does. That's our rule of thumb rather than a clinical figure.
Which mask?
Whichever one you already know you like. If you're starting from scratch and have time to test, Hyaluronic Acid is our pick for a dewy look before a night out. If your skin runs oily, Tea Tree leaves it feeling fresh and matte. Skip anything with gold flakes or glitter if you're after an effect rather than a treat: the gold is for sparkle.
Sheet mask or jelly mask the night before?
Either, as long as it's one you know. A sheet mask is quicker if your evening is busy. A jelly mask takes about 25 minutes with the mixing, and gives you a reason to lie down for 15 of them. Whichever you use, finish with your usual moisturiser.
Should you exfoliate before an event?
Not in the last few days if you can help it, and not on the same day as a mask. Scrubs and exfoliating acids can leave skin pink or flaky, which is the last thing you want in photos. What to do before a face mask explains why we'd skip the scrub anyway.
Before a wedding or photos
- Take care with anything that can leave skin red or peeling, including retinoids and exfoliating acids.
- Keep the same routine if your skin is behaving. Big days are a poor time to change things.
- If you're seeing a makeup artist, tell them what you've used. Moisturised skin helps makeup sit well.
- Booking a salon facial? Many therapists suggest a week or more before the day, so any redness has time to settle. Ask yours.
- Don't forget your neck, if you're masking there. It uses more powder, so a jar makes fewer masks.
Can you do a mask on the day itself?
You can, if you've used that mask before without a problem and you've got time. Keep it early enough that any pinkness has gone before you start makeup. We ask you to wear sunscreen the day after a mask, so if you're outdoors the next day, plan for that as well.
Sleep beats a mask
In one study, people's faces were rated as more tired and less healthy after short nights. If you're choosing between 25 minutes of masking and 25 extra minutes of sleep, a night before a big day is one time we'd pick sleep.
Questions
How long before an event should I use a face mask?
If you've used that mask before, the evening before works well. If it's new, try it at least two weeks ahead so there's time for any reaction to show and settle.
Should I do a face mask the night before my wedding?
Only one you've used before without a problem. The week of a wedding isn't the time to try anything new.
Is it OK to do a face mask the morning of an event?
Yes, if it's one you've used before without a problem. Do it early, so any pinkness from peeling has gone before your makeup, and moisturise afterwards.
Should I exfoliate before a big event?
Not in the last few days, and not on the same day as a mask. Exfoliating can leave skin pink or flaky, so keep the week of the event to products you know.
This is general information, not medical advice. If you're worried about your skin, see your GP or a skin specialist.
Sources
- Contact dermatitis, DermNet