Frequently asked questions
Are face masks good for aging skin?
With the right actives and benefits, face masks can be great for aging skin, says Brooke Jeffy, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Arizona. Dr. Nazarian agrees and says that they allow for contact with active ingredients under a layer. “This process enhances the penetration of those ingredients. Additionally, many people find the process to be quite relaxing, perhaps due to the ritual aspect of it, or perhaps because it’s difficult to work with a mask on, so it encourages the need to stop and sit,” she says.
What are the most effective steps you can take in an antiaging skin care routine?
In addition to regularly using antiaging skin care ingredients and treatments like these masks, Dr. Jeffy says the most important step is to wear sunscreen daily. “After that, being sure your skin is well cleansed to remove product, dirt, oil, and pollution off before bed is crucial to help your skin repair itself overnight. A barrier-boosting moisturizer or antiaging treatment (like vitamin C) to address specific concerns is important as well,” she says.
Do dermatologists recommend face masks for wrinkles?
Dermatologists generally like face masks, but there are some limitations. “The application of face masks offers some benefits because they allow for contact with active ingredients under occlusion, i.e a layer of covering. This process enhances penetration of those ingredients,” says Dr. Nazarian. But ingredients matter. Depending on what’s in the mask, some might contain more drying ingredients or those that might be somewhat irritating, like those with fragrances, AHAs, retinol, or BHAs.
In addition to these skin care ingredients and treatments that can be applied at home, derms recommend in-office lasers to improve aging skin concerns the most. “Lasers can stimulate large amounts of collagen and elastin fibers, repair tissue, improve texture and tone, and even decrease the risk of some skin cancers,” says Dr. Nazarian.
What should you look for in a face mask for mature skin over 50?
In mature skin over 50, dermatologists recommend looking for masks that contain squalane, which can improve the skin barrier and hydration, and can decrease the appearance of fine lines. “Masks containing retinol or peptides can also stimulate production of new collagen and elastin fibers, which makes them a great addition to your antiaging regimen,” says Dr. Nazarian. It’s important to note that the longer an ingredient has contact with the skin, the more effective it can be. “So, although masks are effective, a leave-on cream, serum, or lotion would be superior from this standpoint,” she adds.
How often can you use a face mask on aging skin?
According to both dermatologists we spoke with, how often you use a face mask depends on the ingredients in it. “Once weekly is sufficient for most masks that are meant to stimulate collagen or decrease pigmentation, as these can be more irritating to skin when used too frequently. Those that are used for calming skin or improving hydration and fine lines are much more tolerable and can be used nightly if desired,” says Dr. Nazarian.
We tested face masks for aging skin by evaluating ingredients, texture, application, and overall efficacy based on feedback from dermatologists. The best ones had derm-approved antiaging ingredients like retinol (to improve cell turnover), hyaluronic acid (for hydration), peptides (to support collagen production), and antioxidants like vitamin C (to prevent further hyperpigmentation). The ones we chose were convenient and a treat to apply, and didn’t strip the skin barrier after removal. All of the ones we chose made a noticeable difference, whether it was revitalizing dull skin, restoring hydration, or boosting skin elasticity.
