For a long time, the word "peel" meant one of two things in the beauty world: a) You've spent too much time in the sun sans sunscreen and are now suffering from the not-so-cute consequences. b) You just got a chemical peel and are now patiently waiting for your brand-new skin to emerge (in the privacy of your bedroom).
Today, thanks to innovative skin-care technology, the word has gained a whole new meaning. Enter: peel-off masks, which come in a gel-like consistency and solidify after application. Not only are they fun to use, but they deliver incredibly satisfying results. And, whether you’re fighting off a batch of blemishes, suffering from stress-induced blotchiness, or simply want to tame your oily visage, there’s a version that will labor to improve the ailments of your epidermis.
Now, we bet you want to know which one will fix your skin woes. Don’t worry, we’re one step ahead of you. We tapped dermatologist Elizabeth Tanzi, MD, and celebrity esthetician Joanna Vargas for expert tips on choosing the perfect peel-off for your complexion. What are your thoughts on this new crop? Let us know in the comments.
Redness, Inflammation
Got the blotchiness blues (or rather, reds)? Dr. Tanzi and Vargas recommend masks with soothing ingredients. “I like this mask because it contains aloe vera, which is an amazing basic ingredient for sensitive skin,” says Vargas. “It also contains sea whip, which really helps to disinflame the face.” Sea whip, a.k.a. Gorgonian extract, aids in calming stressed skin. Bonus: It goes on blue, which is fun.
Photo: Via Boscia.
Oiliness
Clay-based masks are key for reducing oil and cleaning pores. “Red clay is great for oily skin because it will help to draw out impurities from the pores,” says Vargas. Also formulated with glycerin and rosemary-leaf oil, this 20-minute mask moisturizes and protects the skin. In short, don’t let the color scare you away: This is a game-changer — even for the most sensitive complexions.
First Aid Beauty, $30.00, available at First Aid BeautyPhoto: Via First Aid Beauty.
Fine Lines, Large Pores
For anti-aging concerns, Dr. Tanzi recommends masks with glycolic and hyaluronic acids, which exfoliate and hydrate. But, make sure to patch-test before using a strong ingredient like glycolic acid. “Some people have very strong allergies to glycolics,” says Vargas. This peel-off also contains calming, soothing botanicals, as well as potent antioxidants and sodium hyaluronate to smooth and brighten.
Neova, $56.00, available at NeovaPhoto: Via Neova.
Clogged Pores
When treating congested skin, Dr. Tanzi suggests using glycolic- or sulfur-based masks to absorb grime from the pores. This mask contains both glycolic and salicylic acids, which exfoliate and re-texturize the visage. It also has cabernet grape-seed extract, an antioxidant that brightens and evens out your skin tone. See ya later, clogged pores.
Elizabeth Arden, $36.00, available at Elizabeth ArdenPhoto: Via Elizabeth Arden.
Dryness, Irritation
Look for soothing, moisturizing ingredients, like cucumber and aloe vera. “I love cucumber as an ingredient because it works universally for all skin types,” says Vargas. “It’s a natural anti-inflammatory, so it’s great for irritated skin.” Besides cucumber extract, this mask has aloe vera and vitamin A. The best part? It only takes five to 10 minutes. And, you can use it as often as you like: Throw it on during your morning shower to reveal smooth and hydrated skin.
Freeman, $3.99, available at Ulta BeautyPhoto: Via Freeman.
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