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With a never-ending abundance of cleansers, exfoliators, moisturisers, serums and new-fangled formulations promising to answer all our skincare concerns, adding extra steps to an already time-consuming routine mightn’t be all that alluring. But according to skincare experts, the art of multi-masking – using various masks on different areas of the face – could be the answer to healthy, resilient skin.

So why up the number of facial masks in your cabinet from one to a handful? Kiehl’s New Zealand education manager Christina Gleeson, says while there’s nothing wrong with using the one mask on your entire face, multi-masking is a great way to tackle multiple skin concerns.

Fortunately, the recent resurgence of masks over the past couple of years means there is a suitable solution for most skin types. “There are types of masks to help with a range of skin concerns such as hydration, radiance, detoxing, brightening and pore minimising,” Gleeson says. “You’re making your masque experience more personal by having a tailor-made treatment for specific concerns, you’ll achieve a better result for healthy skin.”

 

In the Zone
“Normal” skin – a complexion that is neither dry or oily and is uniformly hydrated – is in fact, surprisingly uncommon. For most of us our skin changes from season to season and is influenced by our lifestyle – diet, exercise and stress – and our hormones. “Most New Zealanders have combination skin due to our climate,” she says. Our T-zones might be oily, but other areas of the face might suffer from dehydration, which is where a handful of masks can come into play in our skincare regimens.

As for which mask you should be using – Gleeson suggests getting expert advice from a skincare consultant and really getting to know your skin. “The T-zone is the part of your face made up of the forehead, nose, chin and area circling the mouth,” says Gleeson. “This area is commonly oilier than the rest of the face because of the amount of oil glands. Because the T-zone is prone to breakouts, blackheads and enlarged pores, Gleeson recommends a clay mask to remove excess oil without drying.

“The cheek area can be more prone to dehydration and dullness,” Gleeson explains. “A radiance masque like Kiehl’s Turmeric and Cranberry seed energising radiance masque is also great used in this area as the turmeric helps to brighten the skin tone.” For a boost of serious hydration Gleeson suggests a leave-on, overnight mask. As for the delicate eye area, it often requires a more strategic approach when it comes to fending off the signs of ageing. Hydrating eye masks designed combat fatigue, puffiness and dark circles will keep your peepers looking radiant and wide awake.

Mask Glossary

Sheet masks: Made from a number of materials – including foil, micro-fibre, cotton, paper and hydrogel – there’s a sheet mask for every concern imaginable.

Try it: In-flight – the perfect way to fend off dehydrated, jet-lagged skin without making a mess while 40,000 feet up.

Modelling masks: Another Korean beauty import, rubber modelling masks come in a powder form and become a paste when water is added.

Try it: If you like the idea of whipping up your own beauty products. DIY beauty enthusiasts

Overnight masks: These leave-one masks make getting your beauty sleep – and well-hydrated skin – a breeze.

Try it: When you’re short on time and your skin needs a serious hit of hydration.

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