When Should You Use a Face Mask in Your Skincare Routine?

A good face mask has a place in every skincare routine. Not only are they a quick fix for a multitude of skincare concerns, but there’s a real joy in the ritual – it’s the best excuse to take a few moments out of your busy day and sit back and relax.

But are we getting the most out of our masks? With so many different formulas out there, a little planning and consideration is needed to make sure we’re getting maximum benefits. From hydrating leave-on creams to clarifying clays and serum-infused sheets, each has a different purpose, and knowing when (and how) to use them can make all the difference.

If you’re left feeling confused, don’t worry, we’re here to help. In this Ella & Jo, part of our Skin School for Skin series, we’ll demystify the world of masks and show you exactly when to use a face mask for maximum impact. You’ll also discover our recommended skincare layering order for your best skin yet!

Should You Use a Face Mask in the Morning or at Night?

Face masks have evolved over the past decade. Gone are the days of the single-use clay sachets, scented like fruit and traditionally used at the end of the day to unwind. Today we’re spoiled for choice, and as mask technology has evolved, so too should our approach to when and how we use them.

The best time to use a face mask depends on a few factors: the type of mask you’re using and what you’re hoping to achieve. Here’s our quick cheat sheet to using a morning or night face mask.

Great used in the morning:

Brightening masks

If your skin is looking dull or feeling rough, a brightening mask can work wonders. Exfoliating masks help refine the complexion and deliver serious glow – ideal first thing in the morning. Modern formulas use enzymes, rather than physical grains, making them gentle enough for AM use.

Start with your morning cleanse, then apply your mask for the recommended time; The Glow Up Enzyme Mask is ideal.  Rinse off and follow with your usual moisturiser and SPF. Now you can enjoy an instant boost of luminosity before you start your day and your skin is perfectly smooth and prepped for makeup a bonus. 

For an extra glow boost, add in a 5-minute gua sha ritual before finishing your skincare routine.

Clarifying masks

Oily skin type? If your makeup rarely goes the distance and you’re dealing with unwanted shine by the end of the day, a clarifying mask in the morning could be your secret weapon.

Make sure to select a gentle clay formula and apply a thin layer to your T-Zone after cleansing. Leave on for a few minutes before rinsing clear and following with an oil-free moisturiser or primer. You’ll be left with fresh, clear skin that’s perfectly prepped for long-lasting makeup.

Just remember to set your alarm ten minutes earlier than usual!

Great used in the evening:

Intense hydrating masks

If you have extra dry skin, you’ll benefit from an intense hydrating mask. Packed with skin-nourishing ingredients like squalane and glycerin, these formulas act like a glass of water for your skin, leaving it plumped and soothed.

Apply your nourishing mask at night to lock in hydration as you sleep. Overnight formulas are specially designed to give your skin a deep dose of moisture while it regenerates through the night. Rinse off in the morning for a soft, radiant complexion.

Soothing, calming masks

We’ve talked about how the benefits of masking can be enhanced by the time of day they’re applied, but there’s more to it than just skincare. A relaxing face mask session brings holistic benefits for both your mind and mood.

Evenings are the perfect time to unwind and indulge in a moment of calm before bed. Remove your makeup, light a candle and smooth on your mask of choice. Then lie back, take a few deep breaths and let go of the day’s pressures. 

We recommend choosing a hydrating, soothing mask for your me-time, even better if it has a gentle, calming scent like lavender.

How Often Should You Use a Face Mask?

There are no strict rules when it comes to using face masks correctly. Everyone’s skin is different and so what works well for one person may not cut it for another. However, some basic guidelines can help you create a routine that works for your skin.

Generally, we recommend supplementing your regular skincare ritual with a face mask one to three times per week. You might stick to your favourite or rotate between different formulas depending on how your skin feels.

To create a personal masking schedule that works for you, begin by reviewing your typical week and any lifestyle factors that might impact your skin. Maybe you’re out late on Tuesday and your skin needs a midweek glow-up. Or perhaps you wear heavier makeup on weekends and could benefit from a detox ritual on Sunday nights. Once you recognise your patterns, you’ll find it easier to plan regular masking moments.

Top tip: set a recurring reminder on your phone to make sure you never skip a session.

Face Mask Types and When To Use Them

Here’s a quick guide to different face mask types and how often to use them. Of course, this will vary from person to person, so it’s important to listen to your skin’s signals. If your complexion feels dry, irritated or looks red, it could be a sign you’re overdoing it and need to scale back.

Clay/detox masks: oily skin types will benefit from using once or twice a week.

Hydrating masks: moisturising masks can be used more frequently, anytime your skin needs a little nourishment. They’re particularly effective used when travelling or throughout cold winter months. Try The Miracle Mask for an instant moisture boost.

Sheet masks: often packed with glow-getting ingredients, sheet masks can be used two to three times weekly. This is the perfect “face mask before event” for special occasions.

Exfoliating masks: recommended usage is formula dependent. For a physical exfoliating mask, we suggest using a maximum of once per week. However, gentle enzyme-based formulas like The Glow Up Enzyme Mask can be used multiple times per week without irritating the skin – it’s the best face mask for glowing skin.

How to Apply a Face Mask

We always recommend following the specific instructions of your face mask of choice, but there are a few universal tips to make sure you always get the best out of your product. Here are our glow-up skincare steps for great results every time:

1. Start with clean, dry skin.

Make sure your face is free of makeup, dirt and debris before applying your mask. This way, your skin can fully absorb all the wonderful benefits. When it comes to pre-cleaning vs post-cleansing application, we’re post-cleansing every time.

2. Apply evenly, avoiding your lips and eyes

For smooth-on products, try to get an even layer across the whole face. Never apply the mask too close to your lips or eyes these areas are sensitive and should be avoided.

3. Follow timing instructions

Although it’s tempting to leave the face mask on for longer than stated in the instructions, longer doesn’t necessarily mean better. Trust the label; it’s been tested for optimal results.

4. Follow up with moisturiser or serum

Whether you’ve used a moisturising or detoxifying formula, you should always finish your masking session with a layer of light hydration. Hydrating Hyaluronic Serum or a lightweight cream will help seal in the glow.

That’s everything you need to know about face masks for every skin type. Ready to add masking into your weekly routine? The Ella & Jo Glow Up Enzyme Mask reveals radiant skin in just minutes ideal before a big event or whenever your complexion needs a boost. Shop now!