Ask The Expert: Want to give your skin a beauty boost? Do it with face masks

Using masks regularly boosts your skincare by providing deep cleansing, hydration, and targeted treatments. Photo: Freepik

Ask The Expert is a column where we get experts to answer questions on topics related to fashion and beauty.

This time around, PS Knudsen founder Patricia Knudsen answers all your questions related to face masks and its benefits for your skin.

With so many types of masks available, how do I choose the right one for my skin type and concerns? – Reina, KL

For oily skin, choose a clay or charcoal mask to absorb excess oil and unclog pores, for dry skin, go for a cream, gel, or sheet mask to deeply hydrate and soothe.

As for combination skin, try multi-masking – use a clay mask on oily areas and a hydrating mask on dry spots.

Focus on ingredients like kaolin or bentonite for oil control, hyaluronic acid for hydration, and AHAs/BHAs for balance.

Read more: Ask The Expert: How to prep your skin for special occasions and make it glow

Patricia Knudsen advises against leaving masks on too long as this can lead to dryness, irritation or clogged pores. Photo: Instagram/Patricia Knudsen

How often should I be using face masks? Is it possible to overdo it, or is there such a thing as using them too much for certain skin types? – Jess, KL

The frequency of using face masks depends on your skin type and its purpose.

Clay and charcoal masks for oily skin should be used one to two times a week to avoid over-drying.

Hydrating masks, such as cream, gel, or sheet masks, can be used two to three times a week or more as needed for moisture.

Exfoliating masks with AHAs or BHAs should be limited to one to two times a week to prevent irritation.

Overnight masks are best used one to three times a week, depending on hydration needs.

Overuse can strip the skin, leading to dryness, irritation, or breakouts, so it’s important to adjust based on your skin’s response.

What are some of the key benefits of using masks regularly in a skincare routine? Do they really make a noticeable difference compared to regular moisturisers and serums? – Sara, Kuching

Using masks regularly boosts your skincare by providing deep cleansing, hydration, and targeted treatments.

Masks have higher concentrations of active ingredients, offering more intense results than moisturisers and serums.

They can detoxify, improve skin texture and address specific concerns like acne or ageing.

While moisturisers and serums are essential, masks enhance the effectiveness of your routine by delivering more focused treatments for noticeable results.

What key ingredients should I be looking for in masks for different skin concerns (e.g., acne, fine lines, pigmentation)? Are there any “must-have” ingredients that make masks more effective? – SL, Penang

For acne, look for salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or tea tree oil, while for fine lines, choose retinol, peptides, or hyaluronic acid.

When it comes to pigmentation, go for vitamin C, niacinamide, or alpha arbutin.

Must-have ingredients are hyaluronic acid (hydration), vitamin C (brightening), and of course prickly pear seed oil (all around). It’s a must have!

Are DIY masks just as effective as the professional ones you can buy in stores? What’s your take on popular home remedies versus professionally formulated products? – Azimah, KL

Well, DIY masks can be effective for basic hydration or mild exfoliation, but they often lack the potency and stability of professionally formulated products.

Homemade masks may not have the precise concentrations of active ingredients, and some ingredients can irritate sensitive skin or cause imbalances.

Professionally formulated masks are specifically created to target skin concerns with research-backed ingredients, ensuring better results and safety.

While DIY masks can be a fun addition to your routine, they’re not always as effective or consistent as store-bought options.

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Can I layer different types of masks (like a hydrating mask followed by a pore-refining mask) during the same session, or should I stick to just one mask at a time for the best results? – Suzy, KL

You can layer different types of masks (like hydrating and pore-refining), but it’s best to apply them to different areas of your face. This technique is called multi-masking.

For example, use a hydrating mask on dry areas and a pore-refining mask (like clay) on oily or congested spots.

It will allow you to target specific concerns without overwhelming the skin.

Just avoid using too many strong ingredients at once, as it may irritate your skin.

What are some common mistakes people make when using masks? Are there any things we should avoid? – Stella, PJ

Leaving masks on too long as this can lead to dryness, irritation or clogged pores. Follow the recommended time on the packaging.

Another would be using the wrong mask for skin type – for example, clay masks on sensitive skin can cause irritation. Choose masks suited to your skin’s needs.

Be careful to not overuse masks, as too many masks in a week can strip or irritate your skin. Stick to a few times a week, depending on your skin type.

Also, don’t skip patch testing as it is a step that is important in determining allergic reactions, especially with strong ingredients like acids or retinol.

Finally, using masks on dirty skin – always cleanse before applying a mask to ensure it works effectively.

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