How Do You Apply a Face Mask?

Using a face mask is one of our favorite ways to treat our skin—and if you’re anything like us, then you probably feel the same way. But what exactly, is the best way to apply a face mask? After all, it can be easy to go overboard and use too much. No need to fret—we’ve got step-by-step tips for using face masks the right way. Keep reading to learn how to apply different types of face masks like a pro as part of your skin care routine. And remember to keep a facial cleanser and moisturizer on hand to use before and after you're done with your mask!

HOW DO YOU ADD A FACE MASK TO YOUR SKIN CARE ROUTINE?

Before we jump to how to apply a face mask, we’ve got to cover a very important step: figuring which face mask is right for you! Pick from the options below, based on your skin concerns and application preferences.

Face Mask Option #1: Clay Mask

A clay mask is a creamy mask that, as you probably guessed, is formulated with clays. The L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay line consists of five masks, each of which is formulated with three different clays. Keep in mind that you can multi-mask and use a few of the face masks from the line at the same time to address different skin issues on different parts of your face. Take your pick from the choices below.

L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Clarify & Smooth Face Mask: Daily wear and tear—makeup and improper care—can leave skin looking uneven with roughness and imperfections. Formulated with yuzu lemon extract, this face mask can help draw out the buildup of impurities, dirt, and pollution, shed rough, dead skin cells from the surface of your skin, clarify tone, and improve skin texture.

L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Mask Clear & Comfort Face Mask: Over time, harsh cleansing can be drying and sensitizing, leaving skin feeling uncomfortable. As a result, skin needs cleaning that is effective yet gentle. Formulated with seaweed, this face mask can help draw out the buildup of impurities, dirt, and oils and gently cleanse stressed areas.

L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Mask Detox & Brighten Face Mask: Over time, harsh environmental factors like pollution and debris can damage skin, leaving your complexion looking dull and tired. Formulated with charcoal, this face mask can help draw out the buildup of impurities, dirt, and pollution and reduce the look of dull skin.

L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Mask Exfoliate & Refining Face Mask: Day after day, dead skin cells can accumulate on the surface of your skin, leaving your complexion feeling rough. Formulated with red algae extract, this face mask can help draw out the buildup of impurities, dirt, and oils, exfoliate dead skin cells, smooth the look of imperfections, and allow skin to breathe.

L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Mask Purify & Mattify Face Mask: Day after day, impurities, dirt, makeup, and excess oils can build up on the surface of your skin, leaving your complexion looking overly oily. Formulated with eucalyptus leaf extract, this face mask can help draw out the buildup of impurities, dirt, and oils and reduce the look of excess shine.

Face Mask Option #2: Sheet Mask

Looking for a quick and easy face mask option? Consider a sheet mask. These serum-soaked fabrics are shaped to be molded against your face. Often known for their hydrating properties, this is a great face mask choice for those with dry skin. They’re also easy to pop in your suitcase if you want to give your skin some TLC mid-vacay since they’re slim and single-use!

Face Mask Option #3: Bubble Mask

Bubble masks are ideal for those who want to give their skin an extra deep cleanse. As the mask oxidizes, bubbles form to remove dirt and impurities from your skin! Consider this the perfect option for a face mask Instagram selfie.

Face Mask Option #4: Overnight Mask

Does your skin need some extra love? Or do you feel as though you don’t have enough minutes in the day to dedicate to a mask? Consider an overnight mask. These masks are applied as the last step in your nighttime skin care routine and left on overnight. They absorb just like a moisturizer making them totally hassle-free; in the morning you’ll just go about your skin care routine as per usual. Try the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Triple Power™ Intensive Overnight Mask, which penetrates quickly while forming a virtual protective mask to cradle skin, help improve skin's firmness and elasticity overnight, and visibly transform the look of aging skin.

Face Mask Option #5: Peel-Off Mask

Another quick and easy face mask option, a peel-off mask is great for exfoliating and unclogging your pores. They’re typically applied as a cream or gel, then peeled off after the allotted amount of time. This is another ideal mask choice for those who are traveling since they result in minimal mess.

HOW DO YOU APPLY A FACE MASK?

Now that you know which face mask is right for your skin (and maybe you’ve even decided to try a few of them!), it’s time to get to the fun part—application. Follow the tips below for using a face mask.

Step 1: Cleanse first

We know—you’re excited to whip out your face mask and put it on! But before doing that, cleanse your skin first. Look for a facial cleanser formulated for your skin type. Choose from the L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Detox & Brighten Cleanser, L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Purify & Mattify Cleanser, and L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Exfoliate & Refine Cleanser.

Step 2: Apply your face mask

Let’s get to it! Take notes from below, depending on your mask type.

If you’re applying a clay mask…dip your fingertips into your face mask and scoop out about a quarter-sized amount. Start by evenly spreading the face mask onto your skin. Begin at your upper neck and gently work your way up your face. Just make sure to avoid your delicate lip and eye area.

If you’re applying a sheet mask…remove the mask from its packaging and gently unfold it. Align the shape of the mask with your face and gently form it to the contours of your face.

If you’re applying a bubble mask…dip your fingertips into the mask and apply about a quarter-sized amount evenly over your face, avoiding your eyes and lips.

If you’re applying an overnight mask…smooth the mask over your face just as you would a moisturizer! Avoid your eye and lip areas.

If you’re applying a peel-off mask…use your fingertips to smooth the mask over your skin, being sure to apply an even coat. Avoid your lips, eyes, and eyebrows!

Step 3: Let it sit

While your face mask is sitting on your skin, consider using this time to relax, lay back, and practice deep breathing for the several minutes you have it on—or sit down and finish a chapter of your book. Think of this as an at-home spa day! As for how long this step should be, that will depend on your specific mask. Be sure to follow the instructions, because leaving a mask on longer than necessary won’t do your complexion any favors!

Step 4: Rinse thoroughly

When it comes time to remove your face mask after the appropriate amount of time, this is what to do.

If you’re removing a clay mask…rinse the mask off with lukewarm water. Gently splash your skin with a little water and continue to rinse until the entire face mask has been removed. 

If you’re removing a sheet mask…simply pull off the mask and massage any remaining formula over your skin. No rinsing required!

If you’re removing a bubble mask…rinse off the mask using lukewarm water until it’s fully removed from your skin.

If you’re removing an overnight mask…leave it be! In the morning, follow your usual skin care routine.

If you’re removing a peel-off mask…gently peel off your mask, being sure to take your time as to not tug at your skin harshly. Rub any remaining formula over your skin when done—no need to rinse!

Step 5: Moisturize while skin is still damp

Now that you’ve removed your face mask, your skin should look and feel smooth and clean. Follow up by applying a moisturizer to damp skin, which can help lock in hydration. Try the L’Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care - Normal/Oily Skin, L’Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care - Normal/Dry Skin, or L’Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care - Extra Dry Skin.

Step 5: Repeat

Use your face mask a few times a week for best results.

And that’s it! Next time you go to smooth on a face mask, remember these tips, as taking the time to apply your face mask correctly can help ensure you see the most worthwhile results. For more on face masks, check out the 9 Face Mask Hacks That’ll Make Your Skin Care Routine More Fun.