On my most recent trip to one of my favorite beauty stores, I decided to pick up a one-time use hair mask. I’ve always wanted to try a hair mask, and since it was right there at the cash wrap at check out, I figured why not (and a confirmation that I’m a compulsive buyer).
Now, if you are like me then you want to know exactly why you should do a beauty mask (hair, body, or face) and how they work.
“Hair masks have the ability to soften, condition, and make the overall appearance of your hair more lively,” says Marcy Cona, the global creative director of color and style for Clairol and the owner of a salon in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. “They can be nourishing as well.”
While hair masks can’t transform the chemical makeup of your hair, they can have a conditioning benefit on the outside cuticle of the hair, Cona says. “When the cuticle is closed, which a mask can accomplish, your hair will be more shiny, reflective, and touchable overall, rather than dry and coarse.” dailyglow.com
There are different hair masks that help accomplish different things from color protection, to damaged hair repair, but for an overall nourishing effect try the Fekkai PrX Reparative Intensive Fortifying mask. This mask will deeply restore smooth, natural shine while strengthening against styling and chemical damage. You can find it at your local Nordstrom for $49.
Facial masks also come in a variety of formulas depending on your skin’s condition and needs.
Usually used once or twice a week, facial masks can deep down clean your face, tighten your pores, or brighten and exfoliate your face. Masks are not a “one size fits all” product though. There are clay masks, fruit extract masks, yogurt masks, and gel masks, just to name a few in a long lineup. Before you buy a facial mask, you must recognize your skin type and buy accordingly. skincare.about.com
From my favorite skincare line, Sisley-Paris Black Rose Cream Mask is soothing and rejuvenates skin and restores vitality. Its 4 actions: 1. Smoothing & plumping 2. Revitalizing 3. Soothing & softening 4. Nourishing, moisturizing and repairing. Plus all of their products smell delicious. Available at Saks Fifth Avenue, $158.
A body mask works similarly to a facial mask, and is great to do to restore the skin’s natural glow. For a fun, messy, but surely beneficial time try the LUSH Glorious Mud body mask. This body mask gets you mucky, but leaves your skin absolutely delectable. Smooth all over and cover your wet body for a glorious effect and leave for a few minutes before rinsing off. Aloe vera extract is skin soothing, and the mix of sesame and vanilla oils moisturize and soften. At Lush, $6.95
By Kristianne Young
