Sargent Asks: What Makes an Excellent Face Mask? Here are Our Top 10 Tips

Switching skincare routines a few times a year is often recommended. Our skin balance changes with the seasons, and the changing weather usually means our skin has different requirements. Whether you want to add a new product or are interested in changing things up with the products you currently use, we have the top 10 tips you should follow when choosing a new face mask. The skin on the face is much more delicate than the skin on the rest of our body, and it is often the skin most presented to the world. You want to handle things fastidiously when dealing with this area, not just jump in without checking things out a bit first.

A good face mask possesses specific qualities that make it practical and suitable for various skin types and concerns. We recommend using a face mask once, no more than twice a week. (Unless the packaging states differently.) Here are some key elements that make a good face mask:

1. Skin-Beneficial Ingredients: A good face mask should contain skin-beneficial ingredients that address specific concerns or improve overall skin. Look for ingredients like clay (such as kaolin or bentonite) to absorb excess oil and impurities, hyaluronic acid for hydration, antioxidants (such as vitamin C or green tea extract) to combat free radicals, and soothing ingredients (like aloe vera or chamomile) to calm the skin.

2. Targeted Formulation: The face mask should be specifically formulated to target common skin concerns such as acne, dryness, dullness, uneven skin tone, or aging signs. Knowing your skin type and concerns will help you choose a face mask that addresses your specific needs effectively.

3. Proper Consistency and Texture: A good face mask should have an appropriate consistency and texture for easy application and comfortable wear. It should spread evenly on the skin without dripping or drying too quickly, allowing for adequate coverage.
   (This is why some of the face masks offered by Sargent Bubbles come in a powdered form where you add water or other common hydrator. This keeps the face mask pristine until you can use it - there is no chance of contamination with this form of mask.)

4. Gentle and Non-Irritating: The face mask should be gentle on the skin, avoiding harsh ingredients that can cause irritation or sensitization. It should be suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin and dermatologically tested.
   (Just so you know, NOTHING should burn when applied. Some products may produce a tingling feeling, but nothing should burn or be painful. If you use any product that produces pain, remove it immediately and rinse with cool water. Please consult a doctor if redness or other issues persist after a few hours.)

5. Effective Results: A good face mask should provide visible results after use. This can include improved skin texture, reduced blemishes, enhanced radiance, increased hydration, or minimized appearance of pores. Try looking for masks with proven efficacy or positive reviews from other users.
   

6. Ease of Use: The face mask should be easy to apply, remove, and integrate into your skincare routine. Consider the required time for application and how it fits into your schedule. Masks that offer quick results or can be used while multitasking can be convenient for those with a busy lifestyle. On the other hand, masks required to dry are excellent when you need to relax and pamper yourself.

7. Hygienic Packaging: Good face masks are packaged in hygienic and convenient containers, such as tubes, jars, or single-use packets, to maintain product freshness and reduce the risk of contamination. Choose packaging that allows for easy dispensing and storage.

8. Suitable Frequency of Use: The face mask should have recommendations for frequency of use that align with your skincare routine and skin type. Some masks are designed for regular use, while others may be more suitable for occasional or targeted treatments. Following the instructions is essential to avoid overuse or potential skin irritation.

9. Dermatologist or Expert-Backed: Look for face masks formulated or recommended by dermatologists or skincare experts. Their expertise and knowledge ensure that the mask is formulated with safety and efficacy in mind.
   (Sargent Bubbles has shown our face mask formulations to six Denver-based dermatologists; the response was exceptionally positive! Of course, we do not include prescription medications in our products, but we infuse high-quality, beneficial, natural ingredients like hyaluronic acid, CoQ10 enzymes, hydrosols, etc. Over and over, the dermatologists - who had no connection with Sargent Bubbles - commented about our quality ingredients, comprehensive recipes, and skin-nourishing components -  before adding special additives like hyaluronic acid, CoQ enzymes, sea kelp, hydrating squalane oil, etc. to our line!)

10. Quality and Brand Reputation: Consider the brand's reputation and quality standards when selecting a face mask. Choose well-established brands known for their commitment to research, development, and product safety. Positive reviews and recommendations from other users can also provide insights into the quality and effectiveness of the product.

Remember, it's essential to patch-test new face masks, especially if you have sensitive skin, and follow the instructions for application and duration to achieve the best results.