fbpx

Man
in the mask

A guy’s guide to face masks
in association with
We all agree a good grooming routine rests on the twin pillars of cleanse and moisturise. But there are some skin issues that need a more comprehensive approach. Like using a face mask.

WHY? It’s simple…they dig deeper. While some masks have the ability to absorb impurities, unclog pores and mop up excess oil, others are intensely hydrating, nourishing and full of wrinkle-fighting anti-oxidants.

In need of a confidence boost before a big date, event or even a presentation at work, or simply want to give your tired, suffering skin the attention it deserves? Take 20 minutes, put your feet up and try one of these.

But first…a quick look at popular mask-types and their benefits

SHEET MASKS:

You might’ve seen these slightly creepy disposable masks floating around social media. But if you haven’t tried one yet, you really should. They’re soaked in a specially-targeted serum, which delivers direct treatment to whatever skin concern you have.

CLAY MASKS:

Clay masks have been used for centuries. Known for its anti-inflammatory and highly absorbent properties, clay masks reduce breakouts, absorb excess oil and grime and minimise pore size.

PEEL-OFF MASKS:

Aside from being packed with nutrients depending on the type, peel-off face masks also gently remove the outermost layer of dead skin cells and clear out clogged pores.

LEAVE-ON OVERNIGHT MASKS:

The benefits of an overnight mask may vary, but traditionally they’re ultra-hydrating and formulated with concentrated anti-ageing ingredients. Some formulas are lauded for their moisturising abilities while others help to firm ageing skin.

FOR PIMPLES
& BLACKHEADS

Men’s pores are generally large and easily clogged. The mineral rich Skin Republic CHARCOAL PEEL-OFF Face Mask targets blackheads and clogged, dirty pores, by combining the purifying benefits of Charcoal with the deep cleansing and exfoliating properties of a peel-off mask.

Leave on for 30 minutes or until completely dry. There should be no tacky bits. Gently peel off from the outer edge and rinse off the residue with warm water.

Skin Republic CHARCOAL PEEL-OFF Face Mask R65.00

FOR CLOGGED PORES
& EXCESS OIL

A purifying weekly mask treatment with a refreshing blue color, Lab Series URBAN BLUE DETOX CLAY MASK is formulated for powerful skin detoxification. It unclogs pores and help remove dirt, pollution and excess oil,
leaving your skin looking clean, clear and healthy.

Use once or twice a week. Apply all over the face or target an oily T-zone. Leave on for 5-10 minutes and rinse off.

 Lab Series URBAN BLUE DETOX CLAY MASK R445.00

FOR DULL
& IRRITATED SKIN

A weekly clay mask treatment is integral to achieving great skin. The highly effective Tom Ford INTENSIVE PURIFYING MUD MASK was especially developed to counter the dulling and irritating effects of a busy lifestyle on the skin. As the mask dries turning light grey, it draws out all the bad stuff like oil, dirt and toxins. When rinsed off, one’s skin feels clean, hydrated, conditioned and
rejuvenated.

Wait for the mask to turn a light grey and completely dry. Rinse with warm water. Once or twice a week should
suffice.

 Tom Ford INTENSIVE PURIFTYING MUD MASK 100ml R1250.00

FOR TIRED
& AGEING SKIN

Intensely delivering a surge of youth activating concentrate, Skin Republic’s Age Defying YOUTHFOIL is a high-performance, foil-backed sheet-mask, that immerses skin in a double dose of super-hydrating Hyaluronic Acid, locking in moisture for nourished, younger and brighter looking skin.

Remove the mask after about 15-20 minutes. No need to rinse the residue serum off… just rub it in gently.

 Skin Republic’s Age Defying YOUTHFOIL R100.00

FOR FINE LINES
& SAGGING SKIN

If your skin is showing its age refine the condition of its texture with the firming and soothing effect of Kiehl’s GINGER LEAF & HIBISCUS Firming Mask. This velvety overnight cream-mask infused with Hibiscus Seed Extract and sustainably sourced Ginger Leaf, is loaded with anti-aging agents that help smooth and firm skin while
visibly reducing the appearance of fine lines over time.

Apply a thin layer and leave on overnight a couple of times a week. You’ll wake up to skin that looks as great as
it feels.

Kiehl’s GINGER LEAF & HIBISCUS Firming Mask 100ml R995.00

FOR VISIBLE SIGNS
OF AGEING

The luxurious Skin Republic 24K GOLD PEEL-OFF Mask combines the anti-aging benefits of gold that aid in re-texturising and repairing skin damage, with the deep cleansing properties of a peel-off mask. Rich in
age-defying minerals and gentle exfoliating fruit acids, it’s the perfect mask to give your skin a luxurious valet!.

Leave on for about 30mins or until completely dry. Peel it off gently, starting at the sides. Rinse off any residue and apply a moisturiser.

 Skin Republic 24K GOLD PEEL-OFF Mask R80.00

FOR OILY SHINE
& CLOGGED PORES

Formulated with Amazonian White Clay the Kiehl’s RARE EARTH DEEP PORE CLAY Cleansing Mask efficaciously draws out impurities, unclogging pores and reducing pore size. It’s great for oily and normal skin types, and will leave your skin feeling clean, refined and shine-free.

After cleansing, apply a thin layer to damp skin. Allow to dry for about 10 minutes. When dry, gently remove clay mask using a warm, wet facecloth and pat dry. Use twice a week for best results.

Kiehl’s GINGER LEAF & HIBISCUS Firming Mask 100ml R995.00

FOR FINE LINES
& WRINKLES

Fortified with real diamond powder and rich in age-defying anti-oxidants, Skin Republic’s PLATINUM PEEL-OFF Face Mask combines the powerful antioxidant properties of Platinum and gentle exfoliating fruit acids with the deep cleansing benefits of a peel-off mask, smoothing away fine lines and wrinkles and leaving skin protected and rejuvenated.

Leave on for about 30mins or until dry. Peel it off gently, starting at the sides. Rinse off any residue and apply a moisturiser to retain hydration.

Skin Republic’s PLATINUM PEEL-OFF Face Mask R80.00

FOR DEAD CELLS
& DIRTY PORES

Brighten your skin with the deep cleansing, oxygenated bubbles of Skin Republic’s BUBBLE PURIFYING + CHARCOAL Face Mask Sheet made from Activated combined with gentle exfoliating fruit acids. When exposed to air the oxygenating mask begins to bubble and foam, diving deep into the skin’s pores and clearing out impurities.

Wear for 15-20 mins. Remove mask and massage excess into your skin. Rinse with water and apply moisturiser.

Skin Republic’s PLATINUM PEEL-OFF Face Mask R80.00

shop now

CONTRIBUTORS

Editor | Neil Doveton
Photographer | Ian Engelbrecht / One League
Designer | De Wet van Rensburg

*Price and availability subject to change.