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Recently, there has been a surge in popularity of overnight masks for hydrating the skin in the skincare industry. Several renowned brands have released overnight skincare products with a promise of moisturized skin in the morning. Many also promise “anti-aging” effects, or the soothing of fine lines and making texture and wrinkles less obvious.
We reached out to two dermatologists to learn more about the best face masks to pursue for these goals and other anti-aging skincare tips. Read on for suggestions and insight from Dr. Anna Chacon, M.D., board-certified dermatologist and writer for My Psoriasis Team and Dr. Enrizza P. Factor, M.D., dermatologist at My Eczema Team.
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Why Are Overnight Masks Used In Skincare Routines?
In a recent interview with Real Simple, board-certified dermatologist Deanne Mraz Robinson, M.D., told the outlet that an overnight sleep mask and moisturizer can "have similar ingredients and benefits, however, a mask will typically have higher concentrations of active ingredients for a boost of moisture, while a moisturizer is formulated for daily use as more of a maintenance plan."
She noted that "sleep masks also work with our skin during its natural reparative process during our sleep cycle." If you are already hydrating your skin every night with a hyaluronic acid serum and moisturizer before bed, using a sleep mask once or twice a week can enhance the effects of the former products, experts say.
What Kind Of Anti-Aging Masks Should You Look For?
When shopping for overnight face masks, Factor tells SheFinds that you should first identify what your needs are, as an anti-aging skincare routine should be multi-faceted and tackle several skin issues.
If you have naturally drier skin and want a mask that will help moisturize, for example, she says to look for the key word "hydrating" on the product.
"A face mask can be used to achieve a wide range of skin health goals," she notes, adding that "they can hydrate, exfoliate, and address uneven skin tone."
A mask that "stimulates collagen production and/ or uses antioxidants to fight damage by free radicals can slow the signs of aging," she explains. Factor adds that "some masks help firm the skin or reduce puffiness to highlight the skin's youthful appearance."
Many overnight masks can also "help fill in wrinkles and fine lines, remove dead skin cells, lighten dark spots, and shrink the appearance of pores among other benefits," Factor notes.
Hydrating masks deliver "much-needed moisture to dehydrated skin." These "soothe, nourish, and, as their name implies, super-moisturize," she points out.
According to Dr. Robert Finney, M.D., a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist at Entière Dermatology who also recently spoke to Real Simple, a product like the LANEIGE Water Sleeping Mask ($25, sephora.com) is a good and affordable choice as it can moisturize the skin while diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Additional Face Mask Tips
In order to find the absolute best mask for your skin and personal goals, meeting with your dermatologist can help. In general, Factor stresses that for best results, use a hydrating and antioxidant-rich mask "two to three times per week for a month."
Chacon adds that "a light cleanser and water should be used to wash your skin before using a mask. This improves how well the mask absorbs into the skin."
