What to do after a face mask
Take the mask off, rinse off anything left behind, and put on a moisturiser while your skin is still damp. Skip retinoids, exfoliating acids and scrubs for the rest of the day. After an Omorfia mask, wear sunscreen the next day, and put the used mask in the bin rather than down the drain.
The routine
- Peel or rinse. Peel a jelly mask from the jaw upward. If it tears, you can give it a little longer next time.
- Rinse off what's left with lukewarm water. There's no need for another cleanse.
- Moisturise while still damp. DermNet says leave-on moisturisers work best straight after bathing, and the same thinking applies here. The soft feel after a mask is mostly water in the top layer of skin, and moisturiser helps slow its loss.
- Clear up. Used masks go in the bin, not the drain. Wash the bowl and spatula. Here's why.
Do you need to wash your face after a mask?
Follow the pack. Clay and cream masks rinse off. For a jelly mask, peel it and rinse off any bits. With a sheet mask, packs usually suggest patting in what's left: here's how sheet and jelly masks compare.
What to skip that day
- Retinoids and exfoliating acids. These belong on another day, especially after Hyaluronic Acid, which contains retinol, kojic acid and arbutin.
- Scrubs and strong cleansers. Skin doesn't need more done to it.
- New products. If something reacts, you won't know which one caused it.
Can you put makeup on after a mask?
Yes, as long as your skin feels comfortable. Moisturise first, and give it a few minutes. If you're getting ready for an event, have a plan and don't try a new mask that day.
The next day
Wear sunscreen, whatever the weather. We ask for this after every Omorfia mask, and it matters most after Hyaluronic Acid because of the retinol. Here's how much to use.
If your skin feels wrong
Pinkness that fades in an hour may just be from the peel. If it stings, itches, or stays red, don't cover it up with more products. Here's what to do.
Questions
Should you moisturise after a face mask?
Yes, in most cases. A mask leaves extra water in the top layer of skin, and moisturiser helps slow its loss.
Can I use serum after a face mask?
A plain hydrating serum is fine before your moisturiser. Leave retinoid and exfoliating acid serums for another day if you've used an Omorfia mask.
This is general information, not medical advice. If you're worried about your skin, see your GP or a skin specialist.
Sources
- Emollients and moisturisers, DermNet