How to use a face mask properly

Where does a sheet mask go in your routine?

A sheet mask is an occasional step in a Korean skincare routine, rather than something to use daily. You can use a shorter routine instead.1

1. 1Start with a gentle cleanser.
2. 2Apply your usual serum, essence or ampoule if you already use one.
3. 3Use the sheet mask before your moisturizer. Keep sheet masks occasional rather than daily.
4. 4Follow with moisturizer. In a morning routine, finish with sunscreen.

Be careful with new skincare masks

Introduce new products slowly rather than changing several things at once, so you can identify what helps and what causes a reaction. Sensitive skin needs particular care with fragrance and preservatives. If you have acne, rosacea or eczema, choose products carefully and patch test on your inner arm before applying them to your face. A product that leaves your face tight or dry is not a good choice.1

The useful principles are gentle products and hydration, not completing every possible step, despite the ten step routine's apparent enthusiasm for taking attendance.1

How to put on and remove a protective mask

1. 1Wash your hands before putting the mask on.
2. 2Cover your nose and mouth and secure the mask under your chin. Adjust the straps or ear loops until the sides are snug without gaps. The mask should feel comfortable and allow easy breathing.
3. 3Keep both your nose and mouth covered while wearing the mask. Wearing it around your neck or chin does not protect anyone.
4. 4Before removing a disposable mask, wash your hands. Remove it by its ties or loops and throw it away. Use a new mask before returning to a setting with a high risk of infection.
5. 5For a reusable cloth mask, fold it by its outside corners and place it in the laundry. Wash your hands afterwards. Wash the mask after every use with detergent and warm or hot water, then dry it completely.

Medical masks offer better filtration than cloth masks. Respirators such as N95s fit more securely and filter both small and large droplets, making them an option for situations with a higher risk of infection. Avoid cloth masks with loose weave fabric, vents or decorations that create holes.2

How to protect the skin under a mask

Before wearing a protective mask, use a mild cleanser and a noncomedogenic moisturizer, meaning one formulated not to clog pores, to protect the skin barrier and reduce friction. Apply lip balm. Avoid fragranced products, toners and greasy creams under the mask, and do not spray the mask with disinfectant. Heat, humidity, pressure and rubbing under a mask can contribute to irritation and acne flares.3

Do not overtighten the mask, and change it if it becomes damp. Take breaks every couple of hours only where doing so is safe. If you reapply moisturizer during a break, let it dry before putting the mask back on. Avoid makeup underneath if skin symptoms develop. Any padding or barrier under a fit tested respirator must still allow it to pass fit testing.4

Check your skin after wearing the mask and moisturize. Seek advice from a pharmacist or GP for redness, rash, itching, blisters, cracking or bleeding. Healthcare staff with exposed broken facial skin should inform their manager and follow infection control advice.34