Beauty is more than skin deep but that’s not to say we can’t all improve on the open pore front. Enter stage right, the face mask, and not the “Why, hello Clarice” kind.

You might think that using face masks isn’t much of a manly pursuit but it’s one grooming move that can make a big difference to your complexion and all without you needing to leave the comfort of your own home. If you’re already using a good face wash, applying a moisturiser before bed and occasionally even dabbling with a serum, this is the next natural step.

Plus we need to get rid of these gender-defined grooming routines. Boy, you deserve pretty skin.

The Benefits Of Face Masks

“A face mask can help alleviate, combat and control your mild skin concerns,” says Sara Waterman, head aesthetician at skincare studio Young LDN. “For example, congested and spot prone skin will greatly benefit from using a face mask on a regular basis, as it can absorb excess oils, draw out impurities and shrink pores. Dry, dehydrated, flaky or post-holiday skin will also benefit from deeply hydrating and conditioning masks containing hyaluronic acid.

“If you have an important meeting or a big event, look for an energising Vitamin C antioxidant mask to wake your skin up, or brighten your eyes after a heavy night with hydrogel eye patches.”

Some masks only need a few minutes sat on your face to work their magic, whereas others are meant to be kept on overnight. Use the face mask once or twice a week, and if you have any problems stop using it immediately – face masks are meant to alleviate your skin grief not cause extra.

The Different Types Of Face Mask

Clay Masks

Face masks come with a whole shedload of textures, ingredients, and ways to use them. This is the most common, a thick mud you spread across your face that is used to treat clogged pores, remove impurities like oil and pollution and even out the texture leaving it just right – not too dry and not Patrick Bateman shiny.