There’s nothing quite like a face mask to step up your skin care routine. The right mask is not just an indulgent treat — it can also tackle key skin concerns and conditions ranging from dryness and dehydration to large pores and acne. Today, we’re diving deep into the best masks for dry skin. Dry skin typically means that you’re suffering from dry, flaky patches, itchiness and cracked, scaly or parchment-like skin. Depending on certain factors, some masks may be more beneficial than others. So, let’s talk about the different types of face masks, how to apply and how to choose the right one for your age range and unique complexion.

What To Look For In A Facial Mask | FAQ | Product Picks

What To Look For In A Facial Mask

Dry skin can be triggered by a variety of factors, including genetics, cold weather and harsh soaps, making it crucial to add hydration to your daily routine. With so many options out there, you may be wondering how to choose the right facial masks for you.

Consider the mask’s texture when narrowing down your selection. Cream-based face masks provide dry skin with a nourishing boost to help deliver hydration, almost like that of a rich moisturizer. Exfoliating masks can also be helpful for dry skin. Masks with gentle exfoliating agents remove a layer of buildup and dead skin cells from dry skin to reveal the fresh, youthful-looking complexion beneath. 

When dealing with dry skin, you might also want to consider clay masks. Usually, clay masks are renowned for absorbing excess oil, but they can also help reduce the look of dry skin. As Healthline states: “According to a 2016 study, when the clay hardens, it creates a film that may help your skin retain moisture.” However, you don’t want to overuse clay masks: “If you already have dry skin, you may want to limit your use of clay masks to a maximum of once per week.”

Some of the key moisturizing ingredients to look for in facial masks include rich shea butter or a hydrating oil such as argan oil, rosehip oil, seabuckthorn oil or jojoba oil. Shea butter is a moisturizer high in triglycerides and fatty acids. It’s an excellent emollient that helps soften the look of the skin and replenish the skin moisture barrier. Oils like the ones listed above nourish the look of dry skin and promote long-lasting hydration by helping the skin restore and maintain moisture.

Some masks also contain Vitamin C or Vitamin E, which boast a combination of supportive antioxidants. For example, a quality, potent Vitamin C mask, rich in antioxidants, can help increase firmness in the skin, reduce the look of sun damage and dark age spots and provide a radiant, youthful glow.

FAQs for Best Face Masks For Dry Skin

How Often Should You Use A Face Mask For Dry Skin?

You can use a face mask one to two times a week. Follow the product instructions for the length of time to leave a face mask on. But, when in doubt, you can typically leave a face mask on for 10 minutes.

What Are The Benefits Of Face Masks? 

Face masks deliver highly concentrated actives, vitamins and nutrients to the skin to improve its overall health. They’re designed to be used intermittently to give your skin an instant boost.  

What Kind Of Face Mask Is Best For Dry Skin?

Face masks formulated with hydrating ingredients are best for those with dry skin. Hydrating ingredients include shea butter, birch water, hyaluronic acid and snow mushroom, to start. For product recommendations, watch Lead Skin Care Trainer Natalie Pergar discuss which hydrating face masks are best for dry skin below.