Cleansing Vs Masking: Why Combining Them Is Perfect For Your Skin

Skin is the largest organ of the human body that demands full-fledged AM-PM rituals for its maintenance. However, due to our fast-paced lives and busy schedules, we are all guilty of cutting corners. Skimping on the much-needed SPF, giving that result-oriented Vitamin C serum a miss – the list is endless. But what if we told you that there is a workaround?  

To help optimize your skincare, might we recommend combining cleansing and masking? While the former removes dirt, grime, and dead cells from the pores, masking targets specific concerns like acne, dehydration, and dullness. All of 2 steps to achieve the skin of your dreams. Neat, isn’t it? 

Before we assess the benefits of cleansing and masking, let’s understand the two standalone steps. 

The Importance Of Cleansing In Your Skincare Routine 

Cleansing wields immense power for your skin and shouldn't be taken for granted. At the surface, the process seems to only remove dirt, grime, and dead cells, creating a smooth, radiant base. However, the benefits of cleansing go way beyond the above. 

Benefits Of Cleansing 

1. Cleansing ensures better absorption of serums, adding to the efficacy of the treatment. 

2. The process of cleansing improves blood flow to the skin, stimulates Collagen production, and bestows a luminous glow on the face. 

3. Using a cleanser regularly removes buildup, preventing enlarged pores, whiteheads, blackheads, and acne. 

Choosing The Right Cleanser For Your Skin Type 

The right cleanser not only achieves all the above but also addresses specific concerns like acne, dehydration, and more. To find the right match for your routine, start with an unerring knowledge of your skin type.  

1. Folks with dry skin should seek formulation with Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin. These ingredients deeply hydrate the skin, making it appear smooth and radiant. 

2. If you have oily skin, pick a cleanser with actives like Salicylic Acid or Niacinamide. These heavy hitters curb oil production and prevent clogged pores, ensuring clean and clear skin. 

3. Combination skin folks should strike a balance between oil control and hydration. Look for ingredients like Lactic Acid or Niacinamide in your cleanser for best results. 

The Benefits Of Masking In Skincare 

Masking acts as a little pick-me-up for the skin as well as the soul. Topically applied for 15 to 29 minutes, a facial mask supercharged with active ingredients addresses a gamut of concerns. From dullness to dehydration, you name it!  

Why Masks Are Important For Targeted Skin Treatments? 

Based on your choice, a facial mask can address the following issues (and more)

1. A pore-clarifying mask: Infused with charcoal or clay, this mask detoxifies the pores for a clean, radiant base.

2. Hydrating mask: With humectants like Hyaluronic Acid or Glycerin at the forefront, this mask acts as a tall glass of water for the skin. It binds moisture molecules to the skin, banishing episodes of dryness, flakiness, and a rough texture.

3. Brightening mask: If you need an instant glow-up, we recommend getting your hands on a brightening mask. It usually carries ingredients like Vitamin C or Niacinamide that promote an even skin tone. 

How Often Should I Use A Face Mask? 

The frequency of use depends on your skin type and its underlying concerns (severity and type). Mostly, masking forms a part of one’s weekly skincare rotation. Certain masks with clay and charcoal shouldn’t be overused, as they can zap moisture molecules from the skin, resulting in more greasiness, dryness, or flare-ups.

Tips For Combining Cleansing And Masking In Your Skincare Routine  

Here’s how you can make the most of your cleansing + masking rituals:

1. Use a gentle cleanser before masking: Use a pH-balancing cleanser to remove dirt, grime, and dead cells from the pores before masking. This will improve the effectiveness of your mask, restore your skin’s microbiome, and ensure a boost of hydration.

2. Choose a mask that complements your skin type: As discussed earlier, your must have an unerring knowledge about your skin type and its concern to pick the right mask for your needs. For example, opt for a hydrating mask to do away with dryness and flakiness. Use an exfoliating mask or a pore-cleansing mask for recurring breakouts and so forth. 

3. Multi-tasking masks for busy routines: If you’re often strapped for time, invest in multipurpose products that ensure cleansing while bestowing all the benefits of a mask on the skin. These formulations don’t compromise the results and are perfect for people who are always on the go. 

How Cleansing And Masking Help Achieve Healthy, Glowing Skin 

In the long run, cleansing and masking can help achieve all of your skincare goals. Just bear the following in mind -

1. Be consistent: All rituals are futile if not followed consistently. Therefore, to streamline efforts for great skin, add and adhere to cleansing + masking without fail.

2. The right routine for a busy life: No, you needn’t put aside several hours for your skincare ritual. Just carve out 10 to 15 minutes in your busy schedule to cleanse and slather a satiating mask for best results. As per your liking, you can opt for masking in your AM or PM routine. 

Conclusion  

Is your skincare bearing the brunt of a jam-packed schedule? If yes, fret not! You are certainly not alone. To optimize your routine, we recommend combining cleansing with masking.  

FAQs

1. Can I combine any cleanser with any face mask? 

No, we recommend finding complementary formulas that bode well for your skin type and its underlying concerns.

2. How long should I leave the mask on after cleansing? 

Refer to the application instructions on the product’s label. Having said that, 15 to 20 minutes should suffice!

3. Can I use a mask everyday? 

The frequency of use depends on the mask and its contents. If you are looking at an exfoliating or a pore-cleansing mask, overusing can lead to excess greasiness, dryness, and inflammation on the skin. Generally, masks should be incorporated in your weekly skincare rituals.