You are in a spa and you can hear soft music and relaxing scent of aromas. You get a rejuvenating facial where you get to be spoilt with a luxurious face mask which would definitely leave your face refreshed, revitalized and radiant. However, have you ever stopped to think: are face masks as good as they are claimed to be?

This picture shows the process of applying face sheets and the after glow when removed

‎As you go deep into the world of face masks, you will realize that these products are excessive in numbers with different combinations and advantages. Sheet masks, cream masks, hydrating, brightening and many more, the options are too many to count. But what is the actual truth behind these masks? Do they truly deliver on their promise, are they just a skincare fancy aesthetic?
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‎Let’s dig deeper;

Different variations of face masks

‎The Science Behind Face Masks

‎The mechanism of face mask is to push ingredients deeper into the skin so that your pores can absorb all the goodness. This might deliver immediate results, including momentary glow or renewed rejuvenated skin. Nevertheless, you must keep in mind that such outcomes might not be permanent, and regular treatment of the skin cannot be ignored.

‎The Benefits of Face Masks

‎What then can face masks actually do to the skin? These are some of the advantages that you will receive:
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‎- Deep Cleansing: Face masks can help remove impurities, excess oils, and dirt from your skin, leaving you feeling refreshed and clean.
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‎- Hydration: Masks can provide an intense dose of moisture, helping to plump and soften your skin.
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‎- Brightening: Certain ingredients, such as vitamin C and niacinamide, can help brighten and even out your skin tone.
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‎- Soothing: Face masks can be incredibly calming, reducing inflammation and redness.

A lady on a black charcoal facial gel masks

‎The Disadvantages of Face Masks

‎Face masks may turn out to be a great addition to your beauty regime, yet there are certain pitfalls to take into account:
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‎- Temporary Results: As mentioned earlier, the effects of face masks may not last long, and consistent skincare is still essential.
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‎- Skin Sensitivity: Some face masks can be too harsh for sensitive skin, so it’s crucial to choose masks that are gentle and suitable for your skin type.
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‎- Excess or Harmful Ingredients: Be wary of masks that contain excessive or harmful ingredients, such as fragrances, dyes, or parabens.

Strawberry Facial sheet mask

‎The Verdict

‎With all these said, do face masks really work? The answer is Yes…, and No. Although face masks may have some direct positive effects and may be a fantastic add-on to your skincare regime, you should not consider them as the only key to having beautiful healthy skin. A good skincare routine, coupled with a healthy lifestyle, remains the best practice towards maintaining the best skin.
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‎Finally, face masks are an excellent method to give yourself a treat, receive a heavy dose of hydration or lightening, and even have a temporary glow. All you need to do is select masks which are appropriate to your skin type. Add it to your skincare routine and watch it elevate your glow.

Have you ever paused to go through those ingredients at the back of your foundation bottle? Likely because as long as it matches your skin tone you’re good to go but that’s wrong, especially when you have sensitive skin. You keep wondering why you breakout and then often blame it on your skincare products or hormones, meanwhile the real culprit is sitting pretty inside your makeup bag. Some products contains ingredient that clogs the skin, preventing it from excreting sweat or toxins from your body. Now what happens if those tiny holes on the skin (pores) are closed? It causes irritation and acne.

Here are five common ingredients present in some makeup products that can trigger breakouts, particularly for those with sensitive skin;

Fragrance
Fragrance makes your product smell nice, but your skin doesn’t always agree. Synthetic fragrances are among the top irritants in makeup and skincare. They can cause inflammation and allergic reactions.

You’ll often find fragrance listed as “parfum” or “fragrance” on ingredient labels.

Synthetic Colours

Synthetic colours are artificial dyes made from petroleum and coal tar, they’re added to makeup products to make them more pigmented. The more the pigment, the higher the coal tar which is harsh on the skin and causes skin irritation, further leading to acne.

Coconut Oil
Don’t panic, yes coconut oil is natural — but that doesn’t make it great for everyone. Specifically for individuals with easily irritated skin. Coconut oil is one of the most pore-clogging oils out there. It can cause major flare-ups, especially when paired with foundations or creamy concealers.
Some makeup products may not list “coconut oil” directly, but will use derivatives like “cocos nucifera oil” or “caprylic/capric triglyceride.” If your skin is sensitive, these can cause major issues.

Talc

Talc is a mineral commonly used in powders to give them that smooth, matte finish. However, it can trap oil, dirt, and bacteria on the skin — particularly if you wear makeup all day in a hot climate. This creates a breeding ground for bacteria causing acne.
It’s found in many setting powders, eyeshadows, and some pressed foundations.

Parabens
These are preservatives used to keep or extend the life span of your makeup products.
When these chemical penetrates the skin, it disrupts your hormones thereby causing hormonal imbalance which has a negative impact on the skin

Final Thoughts

When shopping for makeup, always check the ingredient list, especially if your skin is easily irritated. Remember, what works for one person might not work for you, we all have different skin types. Make sure to pay attention to your body and use what is best for you.

Do you know the solution to brighter, glowing skin could be right in your fridge? Yes you read that well. Those lemons sitting in your kitchen could be the key to a healthy skin. Lemon juice has a variety of skin benefits, whether you’re drinking it in warm water or using it in your DIY facial mask. It has high vitamin C and acidic properties that act as a natural brightener, fading dark spots, reducing inflammation on the skin. It also act as an exfoliant and when sipping it with warm water, it helps in detoxification, cleansing your gut thereby making your skin glow and look healthy.

Lemon can be used in many ways and it’s quite affordable too, but how exactly does it work? And more importantly, is it safe to use on your skin?

Why Lemon Is Good for Skin

Lemon has antimicrobial properties that inhibits the growth of a bacteria “Propionibacterium acnes” causing inflammatory acne. It also contains antioxidants that supports collagen production. Collagen is a protein that naturally breaks down as you age, which can result in fine lines and wrinkles. So the antioxidants prevent free radicals responsible for damaging collagen, leaving your skin free of wrinkles.

In short, lemon can;

• Brighten the skin
• Fade dark spots
• Gently exfoliate
• Reduce oiliness
• Unclog pores
• Evens out skin tone

Ways to Use Lemon For a Healthy Skin
Here are some DIY home remedies that you can add to your routine.

Lemon Juice and Rose Water Toner (Diluted)
Add a few drops of lemon juice to rose water, using a cotton swap, gently dap on oily areas like the T-zones. It helps to balance oil and tighten pores

Lemon and Aloe Vera Gel

Mix 1 table spoon of aloe vera gel with few drops of lemon juice. Apply on clean skin, leave for few minutes then rinse off. Always apply moisturizer afterwards. Aloe Vera hydrates the skim while lemon brightens the skin.

Lemon and Sugar Scrub
Mix lemon juice with sugar and a few drops of olive oil to create a scrub that exfoliates dead skin. Use it on knees, elbows, or even your back if you deal with body acne. It’s best to use this scrub for the body and not on your face.
Do this once every week.

Lemon Water for Internal Glow

Glowing skin is not just about what you apply on your face, it also includes what you put in your body. Start your day by putting two slices of lemon in warm water, let it sit for few minutes before drinking. It helps flush out toxins and keep your skin hydrated from within.

Is Lemon Safe for Everyone?
What most people fail to realize is that lemon is acidic. That means if it’s used undiluted or too often, it can cause skin sensitivity, dryness, and even sunburn.

If you’re going to use lemon juice on your face:

• Always dilute it with water, honey, or aloe vera gel.

• Use it at night, not in the daytime.

• Wear sunscreen the next day.

• Do a patch test first.

Also, avoid using lemon on broken skin, fresh pimples, or if you’re already using chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid.

Final Thoughts
When used the right way, lemon has so many skin benefits.
Remember: a little goes a long way. Be gentle, be consistent, and always listen to your skin.

What DIY would you be trying out with lemon?