Beauty

Best Face Masks

By Tara Thompson Rasmus

Ever since I was a child, I’ve associated face masks with a sort of feminine mystique. Perhaps because it’s a cliché in movies for a woman to “primp” or “unwind” with green goo smeared on her face, I always thought that taking a few minutes to relax while some magical potion works its wonders on your mug was kind of the ultimate in grown-up indulgence. And, if I’m being honest with myself, not much has changed.

I still get that thrill of scooping out the product and applying it to my skin thickly and liberally, of taking a few moments to relax, and of getting a feeling (however brief) that I’ve done something really good for my skin, and for my stress levels. Hey, maybe it’s a cliché for a reason — I’m guessing that both you and your skin could use some TLC right about now, and what better way to feel refreshed than with one of these pretty picks?

image by Trinette Reed Resort & Lifestyle Photography

contributorByline_Temporary_TaraThompsonRasmus

Clinique Moisture Surge Overnight Mask

The ultimate cure for winter-ravaged skin: a super-creamy (but oil-free!) mask that works wonders overnight. Dry patches, begone!

Korres Wild Rose + Vitamin C Advanced Brightening Sleeping Facial

Is it a mask? Is it a night cream? The exact definition for this cult-favorite (and all-natural) product may be up for debate, but there’s no questioning the serious skin-tone-improving properties in this magical little jar.

Eve Lom Moisture Mask

Genius: this crazy-moisturizing mask is designed to be drunk up by thirsty skin, meaning that you can let it soak in, reap the benefits and skip the whole rinsing-it-off debacle.

Kahina Giving Beauty Antioxidant Mask

If you, like me, apply face masks as much for the om-tastic ritual as for the skin care benefits, this organic antioxidant mask will be your new favorite pick. Packed with purifying clay and minerals and scented naturally with eucalyptus and mint essential oils, this treatment is truly transporting.

Origins Out of Trouble Minute Mask

Despite the inevitable dryness and sensitivity that occurs on my face during this time of year, sadly I am apparently not immune to breakouts, as demonstrated by the truly enormous zit that popped up on my face this week. I wish I had this handy pick around at the first sign of trouble; the formula’s zinc oxide, sulfur, and calming camphor are a calming, impurity-dissolving task force.

Crème Ancienne Ultimate Nourishing Honey Mask

You know what? I’m not even going to pretend that I wasn’t initially drawn to this mask because it both looks and smells like a heavenly dessert. Yes, this stuff is crazy-delicious, but it’s also packed with serious antioxidant and nourishing powers. It’s like a total makeover in a pretty little jar.