Hydrating Masks

Have you ever wondered how to tell what areas of your skin are in need of a desperate boost of hydration? If so, you are not alone! This top tip will answer that very question. Simply use one of your favourite hydrating masks, we recommend the viral Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask which was a must-have product due to the reaction it got online. Apply this mask all over your face and leave it for 10 minutes. Once the 10 minutes is up, you’ll be able to visibly see where you’re going to have to apply some extra tender loving care on your face as your skin will turn dry and would have soaked up all the mask’s goodness due to it being dehydrated in that area. 

For a more cost-friendly alternative, the No7 Instant Results Nourishing Hydration Mask is a brilliant product that will give your skin an intensive treatment and refreshes your face leaving it nourished and cared for.  

£ 24

Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask

Read article Shop

£ 8.63

No7 Instant Results Nourishing Hydration Mask

Read article Shop

Retinol

Now, if you aren’t already using retinol or haven’t heard of it, listen up. Retinol is a great product to start implementing into your skincare routine and is an OG skin care product. Backed by science, Retinol can help with premature ageing, pigmentation, acne, minimising pores and improving the overall texture of your skin.  

But don’t get ahead of yourself, Retinol is a very strong product and must be used with care. Start by applying your Retinol 2 times a week and slowly build up the consistency as your skin becomes used to it. We recommend Kiehl’s Retinol Skin-Renewing Daily Microdose Serum as it is a perfect product to start with for beginners. Alternatively, The Ordinary Retinol Serum in Squalane is a great light product to start with, it doesn’t include too much Retinol and will have a minimal impact on the dryness of your skin when first starting.

  Our top tip for Retinol usage is the sandwich method, start by applying a light layer of moisturiser, and a tiny amount of Retinol and then finish off with another layer of moisturiser. This will help prevent irritation from the product while still getting the benefits from using it. 

£ 6.90

The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane

Read article Shop

£ 45

Kiehl’s Retinol Skin-Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Serum

Read article Shop

Skin Type

This tip will be life-changing… for your skin at least! Knowing your skin type can help you buy better moisturisers that will help target your specific skin requirements allowing you to get the most out of your products.  

A top tip for finding out your skin type is to clean your skin and leave it for 30 minutes. After the 30 minutes is up if it is tight your skin is dehydrated, if it is rough your skin is dry, and if it is shiny then you have oily skin, a mixture of them all could mean you have combination skin. This tip is brilliant for identifying what serums, moisturisers and face masks will best suit your skin’s texture and prevent you from buying products that may be too oily or dehydrating for your skin.  

Hyaluronic Acid

This one will save you a lot of wasted product! When applying your hyaluronic acid, make sure that your face is wet or damp first. When you add hyaluronic acid to overly dry skin, all the goodness that this product brings is soaked up too fast due to your skin being in desperate need of hydration. By applying hyaluronic acid to damp skin or after a fast mist it means your skin isn’t in as much of a desperate need for hydration. Therefore, you will get more benefits from your hyaluronic acid and your skin will be even more nourished and refreshed.  

There is some great face mists out there like the La Roche Posay Thermal Spring Water and the Caudalie Beauty Elixir. These products are brilliant for sensitive skin, are super smooth and refreshing and even better, they don’t break the bank!  

£ 12

Caudalie Beauty Elixir

Read article Shop

£ 8

La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water

Read article Shop

Words By: Sophia-Fai Roche

_{^{Header Image: Victoria Beckham}}

The post *Bookmark This For Later* The Ultimate Skincare Tips appeared first on Voir Fashion.

Here at Voir, skincare is our favourite type of self-care. There is something incredibly relaxing and nurturing to the self in taking the time to ‘feed’ our skin with nourishing ingredients, let alone the profound feeling of joy that is experienced once skincare begins to work. We’ve all evolved our skincare habits massively through the years, but understanding the nature of our skin is the hardest of it all. It is much more complex than it seems to master a routine that over time gives us the results we want, especially without the assistance of a dermatologist or access to facials and medical treatments. But these face masks are the closest thing to the intervention of a professional at a spa or salon.

There can be several types of face masks: from sheet masks to jars, with fancy applicators and innovative packaging. Face masks have become rituals, an experience to get to know others, as well as ourselves better, for socialising and forming intimate bonds. Our skin dictates our relationship with the outside world, and there is something quite magical in taking the time to nourish these relationships. As the role of face masks in society becomes increasingly popular (as it should), here are some of our favourite suggestions that will make you truly cared after, your skin radiant and leave your soul exuding positive energy anywhere you go.

BEST FOR: sensitive, inflamed skin

Herbivore Blue Tansy resurfacing clarity mask

This lightly exfoliating mask is infused with soothing ingredients that will calm your skin and any type of inflammation. Cool and soothing on the skin, this cleansing mask includes natural AHA from fruit enzymes and natural BHA from white willow bark (a much gentler version of our loved salicylic acid, yeah!). These elements work to clear away dead skin cells and exfoliate the complexion. As the key ingredient, blue tansy oil promotes a smoother and more even texture with less redness.

£ 40

Herbivore Blue Tansy Resurfacing Clarity Mask

Read article Shop

BEST FOR: detoxifying and restoring properties

I’m from mugwort mask

This mask is a wash-off mask made with mugwort sourced from the Ganghwa County in Korea to calm and soothe irritated, red or troubled skin. It’s formulation is rich in minerals and vitamins, as Korean mugwort is known for its ability to restore youthful skin and its amazing calming and detoxifying properties.

£ 20.38

I’m From Mugwort Mask

Read article Shop

BEST FOR: that blinding glow

REN glycolic lactic radiance renewal mask

This cult-favorite exfoliating mask contains fruit-derived acids to renew and refine skin’s appearance, and the best thing about it is that it’s all natural! (as the company name ‘Clean Skincare’ claims). It will leave you the most gorgeous glow your skin has ever achieved, and it’s the ultimate exfoliating mask (forget the irritating red mask you’ve seen dominating TikTok).

£ 36

REN Glycol Lactic Radiance Renewal Mask

Read article Shop

BEST FOR: anti-aging properties

Youth To The People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Mask

An overnight mask that deeply hydrates, plumps, and brightens with THD ascorbate (vitamin C), squalane, and hyaluronic acid. This powerful mask combines luxurious hydrating ingredients – such as superberries rich in antioxidants – to promise dream like skin. And the many 5-star reviews on Sephora make it ever so desireable!

£ 42

Youth To The People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Mask

Read article Shop

Words By Tommaso Donnati

The post Face Masks That Make You Feel Like You’re At A Spa appeared first on Voir Fashion.

Chapped and dry skin can be troublesome to keep hydrated, especially during the colder months. However, we have got you covered with some of the best face masks that target dryness and dehydration. 

Eve Lom Moisture Mask 

Say goodbye to dry skin with the Eve Lom Moisture Mask. Using this mask twice a week will rejuvenate and deeply rehydrate the skin. This mask is ideal for an instant moisture boost when your skin is feeling extra dry. It saturates the skin with the correct amount of hydration, leaving the skin feeling soft. With every use, it increases cell regeneration, that with time, generates a more radiant complexion. The mask also defends against any future dryness that might occur. Therefore, the moisture mask is ideal for those struggling to maintain hydrated skin. 

£ 65

Eve Lom Moisture Mask

Read article Shop

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask 

Vegan and environmentally friendly, the Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask from Glow Recipe hydrates the skin as you sleep. This K-beauty must-have is full of thoroughly hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid. This mask is full of amino acids, vitamins A, C and watermelon extract. This combination works to moisturise, plump and treat flakiness. The Glow Sleeping mask has a jelly formula that works best when kept in the fridge as it feels cooling on the skin. This mask can also be used as a flash facial, leaving a thick layer on dry skin for 10 minutes. Using the Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask in this way will create a flawless makeup application base. Completely pillow proof, this face mask absorbs super quickly, leaving no residue on the face to transfer to your pillow.

£ 20.50

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask

Read article Shop

F-Balm Electrolyte Waterfacial 

Vegan and cruelty-free, the Drunk Elephant F-Balm Electrolyte Waterfacial effectively rehydrates dry skin overnight. Formulated with a blend of omega fatty acids, antioxidants and five different types of ceramides, it works to restore the balance of moisture levels in the skin. The Electrolyte Waterfacial improves any signs of uneven skin tone or texture that the skin may have. Not only this, the F-balm can be used to hydrate any dry spot such as elbows, hands or feet. Calming and cooling, this mask is suitable for sensitive skin. 

£ 44

Drunk Elephant F-Balm Electrolyte Waterfacial

Read article Shop

Caudalie Moisturising Mask

Also known as a moisture bath, the Caudalie Moisturizing Mask is deeply hydrating. This mask has a creamy formulation, intensely rehydrating and rescuing stressed-out skin. The nourishing grape seed oil within this mask helps to replace any lost moisture in the skin. As well as this, it contains hyaluronic acid that retains water content. Apply this generously onto the face and leave for 15 minutes to reveal a glowing, luminous complexion. Antioxidants in this mask protect thin skin against free radicals and anything that may compromise cell health. It is highly rated and great for sensitive skin. This mask is a must for dry skin. 

£ 22

Caudalie Moisturising Mask

Read article Shop

Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Hydrating Mask

The Origins bestselling face mask works overnight to hydrate the skin. You will wake up looking refreshed and well-rested, ready for the day ahead. With its new formula, this mask can hold on to moisture for 72 hours after the moment you wake up. Helping to restore the protective skin barrier is a mixture of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A, D and E in this mask. It also works to soften the skin. This mask has been created specifically for the dry skin type.

£ 24

Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Hydrating Mask

Read article Shop

Glossier Moisturising Moon Mask

Highly rated by those with dry skin, the Moisturising Moon Mask from Glossier is very hydrating. One of the main ingredients is hyaluronic acid which is what gives the mask its ability to hydrate. The natural brightener, lemon extract, works to even out skin tone. Honey and Aloe in this mask are kind and soothing on sensitive skin. Applying a thick layer for 20 minutes a couple of times a week will leave dry skin feeling much softer. With its creamy consistency and no fragrance formulation, this mask will keep dry skin conditioned and moisturised.

£ 18

Glossier Moisturizing Moon Mask

Read article Shop

Words By Eleanor Coleman

The post The Best Hydrating Face Masks For Your Dry Skin Struggles appeared first on Voir Fashion.

Along with a nation-wide lockdown, the current Covid-19 outbreak has also brought a new meaning to word face masks. What was once a beauty product featuring in our skincare routines and self-care weekends has become a facial protection barrier from contracting the Coronavirus.

These face masks come in different forms, from the paper and the homemade cloth mask to the surgical and N95 mask. Face masks have become a required accessory to wear when going outside, but what happens when this protection mask leads to a skin breakout? Voir fashion speaks to Dr Elizabeth K. Hale on the impact of face masks on your skin how to prevent, combat and treat possible breakouts.

We spoke to Dr hale on the possible cause of skin breakouts or irritation after wearing face masks. We were surprised to hear the problem might not be the face mask, but the state of your skin and the weather as it relates to your skin type when wearing the mask.

Generally speaking, the skin is most sensitive and most prone to irritation when it is dry and dehydrated. So theoretically, if the weather conditions are dry or if we are indoors with the heat on with no humidifier, our skin is going to be at greatest risk. Hopefully, as the weather warms up, and the air is not as dry, we should better tolerate wearing masks. However, one thing to be aware of high pollen counts accompany springtime, so our skin may be more sensitive and reactive than in another season. Also, people who are getting acne under their masks may find the opposite; the warm, humid weather may contribute to worsening breakouts, so look for a mask that is not too tight and occlusive.

Now that we know the causes, how can we prevent skin irritation or breakouts as not wearing a mask is not an option? Dr hale speaks on the importance of maintaining your skin barrier as this is your skin protector.

It’s essential to keep our skin barrier intact, so outside irritants and allergens are less likely to bother us. The way to do this is to use a gentle cleanser (think Dove), make sure to moisturise ideally with a moisturiser containing sun protection (think EltaMD, Cerave) and avoid products and procedures that can injure the skin barrier. For example, on a regular day, products with glycolic acid and retinol or exfoliative sonic brushes may have a role in our skincare regimen; during the time of wearing masks, we should cut down or hold off for now, so our skin barrier is not impaired. Also, avoid heavy make-up; the extra occlusion provided by the mask is going to congest your skin, leading to breakouts.

Before you swear off the outside now that the doctor has recommended avoiding make-up. Dr Hale understands the role make-up plays in your life, and she has suggested alternative ways to slay your look while still protecting your skin.

I have been telling my patients and friends to play up your eyes, this might be a time to try Latisse as our eyelashes have become our greatest accessories! As far as make-up, less is more now! Look for a lightweight tinted sunscreen, which can provide a little colour and extra protection.

As we have stated before not wearing a mask is not an option because as much it may affect your skin the latter puts you in a greater risk of contracting the virus, and I don’t know about you, but I’d rather weather the skin irritation. Thanks to Dr Hale, you may not have to choose the greater risk, she gives a skincare routine after taking off your masks to repair the damage on your skin during the day.

Gently clean your face when you remove your mask and apply a lightweight moisturiser after cleansing. Now might be a good time to try a hydrating skin mask with hyaluronic acid to restore hydration to the skin. If you are breaking out, while it may be tempting to use an acne mask, these often contain acids which may further irritate your skin barrier.

What if you are already experiencing a rash or skin irritation because of the mask. Dr hale has advised on how to identify it and the steps to take and skincare ingredients to use to mend your skin.

There are two main types of skin issues resulting from wearing masks all day.

The first is irritation, rashes and skin sensitivity. For this, avoid irritating products, use gentle cleansers and moisturise! Try to protect the skin barrier!

The second common skin annoyance from all this mask-wearing is acne or breakouts. This is more common in people with oily skin and those wearing heavy make-up under their masks. These people should consider cleansing with salicylic acid wash and look for an OTC acne product like Differin or speak to a dermatologist about getting a prescription like Epiduo or RetinA micro to spot treat the acne lesions. Just remember, when treating acne, less is more – if you apply too much of an acne product, you will dry your skin out too much, leading to further irritation and peeling.

Find out more from Dr. Elizabeth Hale here, on her instagram: @dermdrhale

Words by Precious Njoki

Graphics by Georgia Walters

, , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The post Dr. Elizabeth Hale Tells All on How to Prevent Skin Breakouts While Wearing Face Masks appeared first on Voir Fashion.

The chilling season of winter is notorious for giving your skin a tough time towards the end of the year, as the cold climate dries out the natural oils found in your skin and one too many hours of central heating can leave your face feeling congested. With many of us spending more time at home now, we have the hours (and ingredients!) to try our hand at creating some homemade facemasks to give our skin the nourishment it deserves. In the name of self-care, VOIR have some tailored recipes for you to cook up for your skin this winter. Thank us later.

The calm and collected mask:

This oatmeal and honey-based mask is great for calming down irritated skin, which is often a sign of the PH level of your skin being too high. Oatmeal is the active ingredient which neutralises the PH of the skin, while the yoghurt cools the irritation, and the honey provides nourishment.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup hot water

1/3 cup oatmeal

2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt

2 tablespoon honey

1 small egg white

Directions:

Mix oatmeal and hot water together, then let sit for two minutes. Mix in the rest of the ingredients, combining well. Apply a thin layer to face. Wash off after 15 minutes.

The all-rounder mask:

Perfect for combination skin, this mask aims to take away any excess sebum while providing a shot of moisture to balance things out.

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon brown rice flour

1/2 avocado

1 tablespoon fresh apple juice

Directions:

Mash the avocado with a fork in a small bowl. Sprinkle in rice flour, combining until you make a paste. Stir in apple juice. Apply mask and allow to dry. Rinse off with warm water.

The acid polisher mask:

The natural chemical peel. Infused with the fruity acids of pineapple and exfoliating texture of coconut shreds, this mask sloughs away dead skin cells to reveal a fresh face of baby soft skin. Great for those with the dryer skin type.

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons avocado

1 teaspoon fresh pineapple juice

1 teaspoon raw honey

2 tablespoons unsweetened coconut, shredded

Directions:

Mash the avocado until smooth. Stir in pineapple juice, honey and coconut shreds. Apply a thin layer to skin, avoiding the eye area. Let sit for 10 minutes before using gentle, circular motions to exfoliate dead skin cells. Rinse with warm water and pat dry.

The face quenching mask:

For the thirstiest of skins, this mask uses royal jelly; one of natures most treasured moisturisers to give skin the deep hydration it needs to feel and look supple in any weather.

Ingredients:

3 tablespoons thinly shredded coconut

1 tablespoon royal jelly

1 tablespoon vanilla-flavoured almond milk

Directions:

Mix coconut shreds with royal jelly. Add almond milk to the mixture to achieve desired texture. Spread on cleansed face and neck and wait for 15 minutes. Rinse with water and pat dry.

The cool-as-a-cucumber eye mask:

Because your eyes need attention too. This minty concoction gets your blood circulation in motion while providing antioxidants to decrease irritation and de-puff your eyes if you’ve had more late nights than you need.

Ingredients:

5 sprigs mint

1/2 cucumber

Directions:

Blend the mint and cucumber in a blender to form a puree. Soak a cotton ball in the solution, then pat it around your eyes. Leave on for 20 minutes before rinsing off.

Words by Sophia Zenonos

Graphics by Sophia Zenonos

The post Made With Love: DIY Facemasks To Save Your Skin This Winter appeared first on Voir Fashion.