Recently, the skin care industry has seen an increasing popularity of overnight masks that are meant to moisturize the skin. Several popular brands have launched night care products that promise to hydrate your skin in the morning. Many also promise an "anti-aging" effect, softening fine lines and reducing texture and wrinkles.
We asked two dermatologists to learn about the best face masks you can use to achieve these goals, as well as other antiaging skin care tips. Read on for tips and insights from Dr. Anne Chacon, MD, board-certified dermatologist and my psoriasis team contributor, and Dr. Enrizza P. Factor, MD, my team eczema dermatologist.
Why are sleeping masks used in skin care?
In a recent interview with Real Simple, board-certified dermatologist Dean Mraz Robinson told the publication that an overnight mask and moisturizer may “have similar ingredients and benefits, but the mask typically contains higher concentrations of active ingredients to improve hydration; The moisturizer is intended for daily use and is more of a care program.
He noted that "sleep masks also work with our skin during its natural repair process during the sleep cycle." If you already moisturize your skin with a hyaluronic acid serum and moisturizer every night before bed, using a sleeping mask once or twice a week can enhance the benefits of the first product, the experts say.
Which anti-aging masks should you pay attention to?
When shopping for overnight masks, Factor tells SheFinds that you should first decide what your needs are, because an antiaging skin care regimen needs to be versatile and address a variety of skin concerns.
If you have naturally drier skin and want a mask to hydrate it, for example, she recommends looking for the word "moisturizing" on the product.
"Facial masks can be used to achieve a variety of skin health goals," she notes, adding that "they can hydrate, exfoliate, and correct uneven skin tone."
A mask that "stimulates collagen production and/or uses antioxidants to fight free radicals can delay the signs of aging," she explains. Factor adds that "some masks help tighten the skin or reduce puffiness, emphasizing its youthful appearance."
Many overnight masks can also "help fill in fine lines and wrinkles, remove dead skin cells, lighten dark spots and tighten pores," notes Factor.
Hydrating masks provide "much-needed hydration to dehydrated skin." They are "soothing, nourishing and, as the name suggests, very hydrating," she notes.
According to Dr. Robert Phinney, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist at Entière Dermatology who also recently spoke with Real Simple , a product like the LANEIGE Water Overnight Mask ($25, sephora.com) is a good, affordable choice. hydrates the skin to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Additional tips for using face masks
An appointment with a dermatologist will help you choose the mask that best suits your skin and your personal goals. Overall, Factor emphasizes that for the best results, use an antioxidant-rich hydrating mask "two to three times a week for a month."
Chacon adds that "before using the mask, you should wash your skin with a mild cleanser and water." This will improve the absorption of the mask into the skin.