Masquerade Ball: Top 10 Face Masks

• While we all remember to cleanse and moisturize, so many of us skip a weekly step that can make all the difference: face masks. Some energize, while others give a deep cleanse – but all, when used in conjunction with a proper skincare routine, have the power to dramatically improve the texture, tone and clarity of our skin, leaving us radiant and ready for whatever lies ahead.
• BelMondo Bio Cellulose Mask: Anti-Aging What it is: The Bio Cellulose Mask: Anti-Aging by BelMondo features Palmitoyl Pentapeptide – say what? Palmitoyl Pentapeptide is a five-sided molecule consisting of collagen fragment peptides – basically it helps boost collagen production and is said to be as effective as retinol but a lot less irritating! The Bio Cellulose Mask is ideal for those ages 25 and above who want to banish wrinkles, firm skin and add moisture. Why we love it: While lots of masks require a good slathering on, the Bio Cellulose Mask comes pre-cut, pre-dosed and ready for its 30-second application. While you look like a mummy for a good 20 minutes, once you remove the mask, your skin is refreshed, supple and smooth. Get it now: single mask, $20; pack of 5 masks, $90 www.belmondobeauty.com
• Lift Lab PURIFY & CLARIFY™ Daily Cleanser & Detox Mask What it is: This double-duty cleanser/mask contains Cell Protection Proteins® that stimulate cell renewal; Aqualumine™, which dissolves dead skin cells; flower and plant extracts to provide long-lasting moisture; and Olivem300 (olive oil esters) to prevent drying and irritation. As a cleanser it can be used morning and night, but to use as a deep-cleansing and exfoliating mask, leave on for just three minutes once or twice a week, either all over or on targeted problem areas. Why we love it: Who doesn’t love to kill two birds with one stone? Nobody, that’s who! That’s why Lift Lab’s Purify & Clarify Daily Cleanser & Detox Mask is the perfect option for anyone on-the-go who cares about their skin. The anti-aging cleanser doubles as a facial mask, which gently exfoliates and deep cleanses, leaving skin glowing! Get it now: 4.40 ounces, $65  theliftlab.com
• Cygalle Silk Collagen Hydrating Masque What it is: Infused with mineral-rich, micronized mother of pearl (which gives it a pearly finish), glycosaminoglycans and botanical extracts, the Silk Collagen Hydrating Masque packs a punch when combatting external factors like pollution and free radicals. Why we love it: For mature, dry and sensitive skin, this mask is an amazing and eco-friendly option. Just like the name says, the product goes on as smooth as silk and leaves your skin feeling the same! Intensely moisturizing, the mask is a must-have for those concerned with anti-aging. Love to follow this up with Cygalle’s Whipped Basil Moisture Cream (which could easily be the best-smelling stuff I have ever put on my face). Get it now: 2 ounces, $75; .25 ounces $25 www.cygallehealingspastore.com
• Guinot Anti-Fatigue Face Mask What it is: It’s a cup of coffee for your face – no, really. Using AHA complex, cold essential oils (mint and eucalyptus), dynalift, biotechnological complex and hydrocyte complex, the Anti-Fatigue Face Mask invigorates skin, allowing it to regain tone and moisture. Used for just three minutes, once or twice a week, you’ll see a difference. Why we love it: Ever have one of those nights that always leads to one of those mornings – there’s a mask for that! The cool mint and eucalyptus essential oils get to work immediately, revitalizing the skin and greatly improving any dull tone. This mask has fast become my go-to on Sunday mornings when I want to look refreshed and well-rested. Get it now: 1.6 ounces, $39 www.skin-one.com
• emerginC Vitamin C Plus Retinol Mask What it is: A natural, organic and intensive anti-aging treatment mask. The Vitamin C Plus Retinol Mask uses Vitamin C, lemon juice, retinol and green tea to even skin tone, exfoliate, smooth and illuminate the skin’s surface. The mask is not recommended for anyone with sensitive skin due to the inclusion of retinol, which, while highly effective, can be irritating. Why we love it: Once a week for 10 minutes gives skin a firmer and more youthful appearance. You will experience tingling (but tingling means it’s working in my world!), and you will need to follow up with your favorite moisturizer because the mask can be drying. Get it now: 1.7 ounces, $49 www.dermstore.com
• GrandCentralBeauty S.M.A.R.T. Skin Perfecting™ Mask What it is: A 15-minute skin-perfecting mask that draws out blackheads, reduces fine lines, lightens dark circles and gives a healthy radiant glow – what’s not to love? This mask is good for all skin types, including sensitive, and can be included as part of your current skincare regimen. Why we love it: Each package includes four applications and a travel-friendly compartment, so there’s no excuse not to use it when you’re away. The mask reduces redness (goodbye sunburn!), cools the skin and offers a ton of hydration, allowing you to always look picture-perfect after using it. Get it now: 4 applications, $75 www.grandcentralbeauty.com
• Karuna Skin Hydrating Face Masks What it is: A favorite of celebs like Stacy Keibler, Kim Kardashian and Rachel Zoe, the Karuna Skin Face Masks make skin noticeably brighter, firmer and suppler after just 15 minutes. Designed to restore and retain, moisture that is, the product comes in pre-cut, pre-dosed masks for easy application. Natto, a Japanese soybean, is the power source behind Karuna’s Hydrating Face Masks; it retains the skin’s natural moisture, while exfoliating to remove dull, lifeless tone. Why we love it: Perfect for a quick fix before a night out, the mask makes the skin an amazing canvas for makeup application. We also adore the product for being made from bio-degradable wood pulp ─ the all-natural fiber allows the product to retain 50 percent more moisture than its synthetic counterparts. Get it now: 4 masks, $28 www.karunaskin.com
• Kahina Antioxidant Mask What it is: Packed with argan oil and silica-rich rhassoul clay from the Atlas Mountains in Morocco, this mask is a must in any skincare arsenal. It draws out impurities and leaves skin plump and glowing from the inside out, using the fresh scents of eucalyptus and mint. The ingredients are 98.9 percent of natural origin and 59 percent are from organic farming. Why we love it: I like to think of this product as a gentle giant. Safe enough for use three times a week, but strong enough to make a big impact. It goes on smooth, and its natural smells let you know you are putting something worthwhile on your skin. Best of all, this is a product with a cause ─ the Berber women who inhabit the argan forest in southwest Morocco, work hard to extract the natural argan oil, which is their only means of financial and social independence. Kahina pays the women a fair wage for this work and funds local initiatives. Get it now: 50 ML, $62 kahina-givingbeauty.com
• SUPER by Dr. Nicholas Perricone 3-Minute Facial What it is: This insta-boost mask contains ginger root extract, which stimulates the skin and increases circulation for a healthy glow; capsicum frutescens extract, a protective antioxidant found in hot peppers, which acts as an astringent; phosphatidylcholine, which encourages rapid penetration of the key nutrients; and a mineral complex, including zinc, magnesium and copper, which help to firm the skin. Why we love it: “SUPER is inspired by nature, backed by science” and proves that effective skincare doesn’t need to be formulated with harsh chemicals. I love to use this three-minute mask whenever my skin is in need of a fast pick-me-up. Using a bit of extra product made all of the difference with this mask. I felt tiny tingles and heat as I let it sit; after I washed the treatment off of my face, I was left with brighter, glowing skin. Get it now: 2 ounces, $25 (on sale!) Sephora.com
• Soap & Glory The Fab Pore Facial Peel What it is: This is more of a mask and less of a peel, but every time I use it, I’m left with soft skin and smaller-looking pores. The brand’s exclusive Poreshrink-R Complex works to do exactly that: shrink (the appearance) of your pores – sorry, ladies, nothing makes them actually get smaller. Use it for greasy, acne-prone areas, especially your T-zone. Why we love it: My face feels and smells super clean, and it’s as easy as 15 minutes in you daily shower! I happen to be in love with the entire Soap & Glory line of products, but if I had to pick one that I needed on my bathroom counter — hand’s down it’s this mask. Get it now: 1.7 ounces, $25 Sephora.com

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