How to Apply Face Masks Correctly

Co-authored by Adarsh Vijay Mudgil, MD

Last Updated: November 16, 2024 Approved

Face masks are an easy and inexpensive way to perk up your skin and pamper yourself. Different types of masks can be purchased (or made at home) to accomplish many different skin benefits. In order to apply your mask effectively, you will first want to prep your skin, then carefully apply your mask. You will also want to gather the right materials. With just a little effort and time, you can have healthy, glowing skin.

Things You Should Know

Pick your mask based on what treatment your skin needs, and prepare either a homemade or store-bought mask along with a soft bristle brush.
Wash and exfoliate your face before taking a hot shower to open up your pores.
Apply the face mask evenly across your face, and let it sit on your face for an average of 15 minutes before washing it away with warm water.

Part 1

Part 1 of 3:

Gathering Materials

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There are many types of masks on the market, and even more that you can make at home. First, look in the mirror and determine what you want your mask to accomplish. Are you aiming to hydrate your skin or to clear up oil? Do you want to get rid of breakouts or are you looking for an anti-aging product? Once you know what kind of mask (or masks) you need, you can find, or make, the right product. ^{[1]
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2
Prepare your mask. There are two routes you can take when using a mask product: purchasing a store-bought mask, or making a DIY mask at home. Read and follow all directions. (Some clay masks, for example, require the addition of water or apple cider vinegar). If you will be using a homemade mask, gather all of your ingredients and follow the recipe.
- Homemade masks can be made from egg whites, avocado, milk, oatmeal, and many other household products. Find a recipe that works for you.
- Store-bought masks can be found for all manner of skin ailments and skin types. Read ingredient labels and find a mask that you’d like to use. ^{[2]
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3
Get a brush. Face masks are best applied with a soft-bristle brush, such as a paintbrush (normally used for art making) or a tint brush (normally used to apply hair dye). Invest in a brush that you will use for this purpose, and be sure to clean it when you are done. ^{[3]
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- You will also need a bowl for your mask, and possibly a washcloth.
4
Cut some cucumber (optional). You may want to cut two very thin slices of cucumber to place over your eyes. This will relax your eye area and reduce any eye puffiness while your mask works. ^{[4]
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- If you do not have any cucumber at home, slices of raw potato will work as well. ^{[5]
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5
Refrigerate your items. Keep all of these things in the refrigerator until you are ready to use them. This is especially true if you are using perishable ingredients in your mask, but even if you are using a store-bought mask product, applying it cold can feel great and be good for your skin. ^{[6]
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- For a cooling effect, place face mask in the refrigerator at least one hour prior to application.

Part 2

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Prepping Your Skin

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Before you apply your mask, be sure to cleanse your skin thoroughly. Using warm water and your favorite facial cleanser, remove any makeup, dirt, and oil. Do not apply moisturizer. ^{[7]
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2
Exfoliate . If it has been a while since you last exfoliated, it is a good idea to do so before you apply your mask. It removes the dead skin cells and helps your mask absorb better.
- You can use a store-bough facial scrub, such as St. Ives Apricot Scrub.
- Alternatively, you can mix a small bit of ground coffee or sugar into your face wash.
- Apply the product to wet skin, gently scrub, and rinse with warm water.
3
Open your pores. Your mask will do the most good if open up your pores before applying it. The simplest way to do this is to take a hot shower before applying your mask. ^{[8]
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- As an alternative, you can take a washcloth and dip it in hot water (as hot as your face can bear) and cover your face with the washcloth until it cools off.
- A third option is to hold your face over a bowl of steaming water for 1-2 minutes.

Part 3

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Applying the Mask

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Using a paintbrush (or another soft-bristled wide brush) or your fingertips apply the mask evenly to your face. If you do not have a brush and plan to use your fingertips, then make sure your hands are clean before applying the mask. Be sure that the application of the product is even and smooth. Avoid going too close to your eyes or mouth, but don’t forget your neck! ^{[9]
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After applying the mask, set cucumber (or potato) slices on your eyes, if you are using them, and relax. You may want to switch off the light. It relaxes you better. ^{[10]
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3
Set a timer and wait. The length of time you will leave on your mask will vary based on the type of mask you are using, and the type of skin you have. In general, 15 minutes is a good average for most masks. Set a timer for yourself and relax. ^{[11]
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- If using a clay mask, do not wait for the clay to dry. Remove the mask while the clay is still slightly wet. ^{[12]
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After the proper waiting time, use warm water and a washcloth to gently remove the mask. Be sure to gently wipe away the mask from around your hairline and under your chin. ^{[13]
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5
Follow with a toner and a moisturizer. Use a cotton ball to apply toner to your face and neck. This shrinks your pores and locks in all the benefits of your mask. Finally, apply a bit of your favorite moisturizer. ^{[14]
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- Avoid applying too much moisturizer, as this will clog your freshly-cleared pores. ^{[15]
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6
Repeat the process once per week. It is important to avoid using clay masks too often because it can irritate your skin. However, using a clay mask can be a refreshing treatment for your skin. Use a clay mask only once per week to reduce the chances of irritation.
- If your skin is dry, then you may want to use a clay mask less often.
- If your skin is oily, then you might be able to use the treatment more often.

Expert Q&A

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Question

How long should I leave a face mask on for?

Adarsh Vijay Mudgil, MD
Board Certified Dermatologist & Dermatopathologist
Dr. Adarsh Vijay Mudgil is a board certified Dermatologist, Dermatopathologist, and the Owner of Mudgil Dermatology, a state-of-the-art dermatology practice based in New York, New York. As one of the few dermatologists in the area to achieve board certification in both dermatology and dermatopathology, Dr. Mudgil specializes in all aspects of medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. He received his Bachelor's degree with Phi Beta Kappa honors from Emory University and earned his Doctor of Medicine (MD) with Alpha Omega Alpha honors from the Stony Brook University School of Medicine. In medical school, Dr. Mudgil was among a handful of students nationwide to receive a coveted Howard Hughes Medical Institute Fellowship and Scholarship. He then completed his residency in dermatology at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in Manhattan, where he served as chief resident. Additionally, Dr. Mudgil went on to complete a fellowship at the prestigious Ackerman Academy of Dermatopathology. He is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, and the American Society of Dermatopathology. Dr. Mudgil is also a member of the Mount Sinai School of Medicine teaching faculty.

Adarsh Vijay Mudgil, MD

Board Certified Dermatologist & Dermatopathologist

Expert Answer

It all depends on the ingredients in the mask. I suggest you follow whatever the manufacturer's instructions recommend.

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Question

Do I need to follow a special process for store-bought masks?

Adarsh Vijay Mudgil, MD
Board Certified Dermatologist & Dermatopathologist
Dr. Adarsh Vijay Mudgil is a board certified Dermatologist, Dermatopathologist, and the Owner of Mudgil Dermatology, a state-of-the-art dermatology practice based in New York, New York. As one of the few dermatologists in the area to achieve board certification in both dermatology and dermatopathology, Dr. Mudgil specializes in all aspects of medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. He received his Bachelor's degree with Phi Beta Kappa honors from Emory University and earned his Doctor of Medicine (MD) with Alpha Omega Alpha honors from the Stony Brook University School of Medicine. In medical school, Dr. Mudgil was among a handful of students nationwide to receive a coveted Howard Hughes Medical Institute Fellowship and Scholarship. He then completed his residency in dermatology at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in Manhattan, where he served as chief resident. Additionally, Dr. Mudgil went on to complete a fellowship at the prestigious Ackerman Academy of Dermatopathology. He is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, and the American Society of Dermatopathology. Dr. Mudgil is also a member of the Mount Sinai School of Medicine teaching faculty.

Adarsh Vijay Mudgil, MD

Board Certified Dermatologist & Dermatopathologist

Expert Answer

Always read the directions that came with your store-bought mask to make sure you use it correctly. Follow the instruction exactly. Pay special attention to how long you need to leave the mask on your face.

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Question

What will happen if I don't use a toner or moisturizer after application

Ashley Adams
Professional Hair Stylist
Ashley Adams is a Licensed Cosmetologist and Hair Stylist in Illinois. She completed her Cosmetology education at John Amico School of Hair Design in 2016.

Ashley Adams

Professional Hair Stylist

Expert Answer

You won't receive the maximum benefits of the mask. Your face will lack moisture, and look and feel dry.

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Tips

Splash cold water (not too cold) on your face after removing the mask. It helps close the pores and improve circulation.

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If you are using a homemade mask, try to prepare a fresh batch every time you are pampering yourself.

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Include essential oils in your mask for better nourishment.

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Things You'll Need

Your DIY face mask / product
Brush / Applicator
Washcloth
Cucumber / Potato
Toner/Moisturizer

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How to Apply Face Masks Correctly

Things You Should Know

Steps

Gathering Materials

Prepping Your Skin

Applying the Mask

Expert Q&A

Tips

Things You'll Need

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