What can a face mask do?

Choose ingredients for the result you want

• For dry skin, look for hyaluronic acid.
• For oily skin or blemishes, look for salicylic acid.
• For fine lines, look for antioxidants such as vitamin C or vitamin E.
• For dark spots, options include kojic acid, tranexamic acid and licorice root extract.

Sheet masks tend to hydrate and soothe; cream masks often target concerns such as acne or wrinkles. An immediate glow can be temporary.1

How should you use a face mask?

Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and warm water first to remove makeup, dirt and residue. Choose a fragrance free formula, especially for sensitive skin. If you use prescription or other medicines that affect your skin, ask your dermatologist about compatible mask ingredients.1

Medicube's gel mask has its own directions

Medicube's Salmon PDRN Pink Collagen Jelly Gel Mask is one example aimed at dryness, dullness, uneven texture and loss of firmness. Its ingredient list includes glycerin, niacinamide, hydrolyzed collagen and fragrance. For sensitive skin, that fragrance is a reason to consider a fragrance free alternative rather than choosing by the product's low irritation claim alone.12

1. 1For daytime use, Medicube tells you to apply the gel mask after toner or serum.
2. 2Leave it on for 3 to 4 hours or until it becomes transparent, then remove it.
3. 3For overnight use, Medicube tells you to apply it at the end of your skincare routine and remove it in the morning.

Medicube's FAQ also gives a shorter wear window of 1 to 4 hours depending on skin condition. Full transparency varies between people and is not required. The change from pink to clear is part of the mask's design, not a progress report from your face. Medicube also says not to use this hydrogel mask with the AGE R Booster Pro X2 Mask Mode, which is designed for sheet masks.2

Are homemade masks worth trying?

Milk and yogurt contain exfoliating lactic acid. Avoid lemon juice, lime juice and apple cider vinegar because their acidity can irritate skin. Test a homemade mask on a small area near the jaw or behind the ear before using it across your face.1

Can a natural mask remove acne scars?

Natural ingredients such as honey or aloe vera cannot get rid of acne scars at home. Scar treatment starts with controlling active acne, then choosing treatment for the scars with a dermatologist. Options include chemical peels, laser resurfacing and microneedling. A homemade mask is not a substitute for those treatments.3