Don’t be NG with the crazy facial mask! 4 major pitfalls of applying facial masks

It is well known that Taiwanese women love to apply facial masks. Applying facial masks has almost become a national sport for Taiwanese women. Industry estimates show that Taiwanese people use about 150 million facial masks every year, which, based on area, could cover about 102 Taipei Arenas. Dermatologists remind that facial masks are not a panacea and people with sensitive skin should be careful. If symptoms such as redness, swelling, and itching occur, be sure to stop using them to avoid skin damage.

Huang Yuhui, spokesperson for the Taiwan Dermatological Association and a dermatologist at Taipei City Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, pointed out that facial masks are "tonics" for the skin and must be selected with care. Regardless of the material of the mask, the working principle is quite similar to the OK bandage used for daily wound bandages; it mainly uses the sealed maintenance principle to wrap the essence in the mask, blocking the outside air, and through the "stuffy" force, it increases the skin's penetration and absorption of maintenance ingredients and increases the water content of the skin's stratum corneum.

The difference in the quality of mask materials is mainly reflected in the degree of fit. In addition to skin fit, the comfort when applied and whether there is any itching sensation are also important indicators. In addition to the influence of the mask material on the feeling and effect of facial application, the added essence ingredients are also key. The quality of the same mask from different brands may also vary greatly.

[Four taboos of applying facial mask]

1. Don’t show too many facial expressions:

You can read a book or watch TV while applying a facial mask, but you are prohibited from frowning, laughing, and try to avoid talking. It’s best to lie down and listen to music to completely relax your body and mind.

2. Do not recycle:

After using the cotton mask, there is still a lot of essence left, which can be fully utilized to apply to the neck, hands, feet or any part that needs it. But never put it back into the packaging bag before reusing, because essence that has come into contact with the air and face is a breeding ground for bacteria, which cannot be prevented even by placing it in the refrigerator.

3. Do not use frequently:

A mask that emphasizes continuous use for 5 days is a type of intensive care. Through continuous replenishment for several days, the skin can reach its optimal condition. However, some cleansing masks should not be used frequently and are usually used once a week. Excessive cleansing will make the skin appear dry and accelerate aging.

4. Use with caution on sensitive skin:

Although facial masks can make your skin hydrated, bright and smooth in a short period of time, if your skin is inflamed, sensitive, red, itchy or has wounds, the closed and heated maintenance action of applying a facial mask may make these problems worse. It is recommended to consult a dermatologist first and use a facial mask only after these problems are improved.