When Is the Best Time to Use a Face Mask?

It’s no secret that we skin care-obsessed beauty editors love a good face mask. And with so many different types to choose from — think: sheet masks, clay masks, charcoal masks — there is (quite literally) one for every occasion. So, when exactly is the best time to apply a face mask? Our enthusiastic answer is anytime, anywhere! Well, except for a few instances. (You probably shouldn’t wear a clay mask to work.)

Why Should You Use Face Masks? 

Face masks are great because they can be used to cater to a wide variety of skin concerns and needs. Be it a serum-enhanced mask, an oil-absorbing charcoal mask or a detoxifying clay mask, there’s truly a mask out there for everyone. And if skin-care benefits aren’t enough to reel you in, at least consider them for a relaxing, at-home spa day. For us, there is nothing better than making time for yourself in the form of a face mask. 

The Different Types of Face Masks

Clay masks: From bentonite to kaolin, clay masks are a classic skin-care staple as they help remove excess oil and purify pores to promote a healthy-looking glow. Case in point: AcneFree Kaolin Clay Detox Mask With Charcoal. 

Charcoal masks: Masks formulated with charcoal have the ability to detoxify the skin’s surface because they work like a magnet to attract dirt and other impurities. These all-star formulas are a perfect choice for all skin types as they give your skin a more radiant-looking glow. We love the Pacifica Crystal Lava Bubbling Charcoal Mask because it’s infused with charcoal, quartz and watermelon to fully power your glow by removing dirt from your face.

Sheet masks: Unlike traditional clay or charcoal masks, sheet masks don’t require a rinse after use, which makes them a great option when you need a quick fix. They’re typically soaked in a beneficial serum to deliver a high concentration of potent ingredients in just one masking session. Want to take one for a spin? Reach for the Garnier SkinActive Vitamin C Mix Sheet Mask to give your skin hydrating and glowing benefits. 

Overnight masks: Overnight masks are exactly what you need to enhance your beauty sleep. They are designed to be applied just before bed and worn throughout the night during your skin’s regeneration process. Interested in trying one for yourself? We like the Lancôme Énergie De Vie Night Mask, which is a hydrating, antioxidant-packed sleeping mask that leaves your skin feeling soft, supple, moisturized and refreshed by morning. 

The Best Times to Reach for a Face Mask

During Your At-Home Spa Day

The next time you treat yourself to an at-home spa day, you have to include a face mask. Once you apply your favorite face mask, light a candle and experience extreme relaxation.

While Binge-Watching Your New Favorite Show

Catching up on your favorite show just got so much better. The next time you find yourself spending hours in front of the TV, run out during the next commercial break and apply a hydrating face mask. It’s multitasking at its finest. 

During Your Meditation Practice

Facial masks are one of our favorite ways to relax our skin so why not do it while relaxing the mind, too? The next time you meditate, apply an aromatic facial mask that can help you get into the right frame of mind for your practice and provide your complexion with some hydration, radiance and whatever else it may need.

While Soaking in a Bubble Bath

If soaking in a bubble bath is one of your favorite ways to unwind, upgrade the entire experience by adding a deep cleansing clay mask to help draw out impurities and promote gorgeous-looking skin. 

When Drinking a Glass Of Wine

There’s nothing quite like ending the work week with a glass of red and your favorite face mask. Don’t believe us? Try it out for yourself and thank us later. 

During a Flight

Ask any major celebrity for her in-flight skin-care tips and more often than not she’ll advise using a face mask because dry cabin air can cause your skin to dry out. The next time you fly, pack a hydrating sheet mask — or, a less scary overnight mask — in your carry-on and apply it to your skin. The hydration can help soothe uncomfortable skin caused by dry, recirculated cabin air and leave your complexion looking fresh and supple upon landing.

After a Flight

While applying a face mask during your flight is definitely a good move, don’t forget to apply one after a flight as well. Like we mentioned, dry air on planes can wreak havoc on your skin, and there’s no harm in upping the hydration ante to ensure your skin looks and feels its best. 

After Fun in the Sun

Even if you were extra cautious about exposing your skin to the sun, your skin may still feel taught, dry and uncomfortable after prolonged exposure to UV rays. If you feel like your skin could use a little hydration, reach for a cooling gel face mask. Bonus soothing points if your mask is formulated with aloe vera.

Before a Night Out

Going out on the town? Apply a facial mask at least an hour before you get ready. Certain face masks can help your skin can appear more refreshed, renewed and ready for makeup application.

The Day After a Night Out

So, you had a drink (or several) and you fell asleep with your makeup on? It happens to the best of us. Just make sure you give you and your skin some necessary R&R with a hydrating face mask. Many hydrating face masks can help provide the skin with a boost of moisture and a natural-looking glow. 

When You’re Stressed

Ever heard of stressed skin? Yes, it’s a thing. So do your complexion a solid and use a facial mask when you’re feeling the pressure. We recommend reaching for a mask that has an aromatherapy-inspired scent to help you get your mind in a place of ultimate relaxation. 

While You’re Painting Your Nails

What’s more relaxing than turning on some music, turning off your mind and painting your nails in your favorite shade, all while letting a mask envelop your skin? We’ll tell you, not much. 

While You’re at Work

If you work in an open space, this may not be the right move, but if you have your own private office you could allow a sheet mask to absorb into your skin while you’re checking things off your to-do list. In fact, work-masking is a thing and it can make the day go by much smoother, as your face reaps the benefits of a hydrating mask while you’re typing away at your desk. 

Before Bed

Prep your skin for slumber by applying a face mask right before slipping into the sheets. You can also reach for an overnight mask that will work to give you beautiful skin by morning. 

Read More: 
3 Ways to Address Closed Comedones (A.K.A. Whiteheads)
A Simple Skin-Care Routine for Oily Skin
How to Apply Face Primer the Right Way