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Skin… it exists in places other than the face!
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If the rise inbody maskingis any indication, it seems that folks are starting to agree.
a New York-based board-certified plastic surgeon.
What is body masking and what can it do for my skin?
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Ultimately, body masks function in the same way face masks do for your skin.
“They’re nothing more than face masks for the skin below the neck,” saysDr.
Marina Peredo, M.D., a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist.
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It’s important to establish that the practice isn’t anything new.
Traditionalbody ritualssuch as bathhouses and bathing in mineral pools can be found indifferent culturesacross the world.
“Some masks are formulated to exfoliate and brighten while others will soften and hydrate.”
They also happen to be a bit cheaper than booking an entire spa session.
Brands like fan-favoriteFrank Bodyhave already been on this kick.
“I have seen a surge in both facial and body acne during this pandemic.
Legs can be prone to acne after shaving due to irritation around hair follicles.”
Is the skin on your body different from the skin on your face?
Face skin is thinner than that on our bodies.
In the same vein, body skin also has fewer sebaceous glands, making it less oily.
Because of this difference, body masks have to be formulated accordingly.
Clay-based masks, like ones made with bentonite or kaolin have thosedetoxifying propertiesyou’re looking for.
For hyperpigmentation,niacinamideandkojic acidare a boon with their discoloration-fading capabilities.
For fine lines and wrinkles, hyaluronic acid and humectants are key, notes Dr. Doft.
For smoothing and brightening the skin, look for exfoliating acids such as lactic acid and glycolic acid.
Physical exfoliants such as clay and niacinamide can also be your BFF for improving hyperpigmentation.
This is especially true if you’re working with masks that contain exfoliating acids or potentially harsh actives.
Los Angeles-based aestheticianJoshua Rosssuggests fragrance-free masks if you’ve got eczema, as the scents may irritate your skin.
Stay away from retinoids and glycolic acid, too.
Acne sufferers, look for a mask withsalicylic acidin it, Fernandez advises.
How often should you be masking?
Dr. Ellis recommends masking weekly or biweekly.
Try starting with a dry bush, as Aguilar suggests.
Then, scoop out as much product as you need and slather it on for as long as directed.
You also don’t have to useonlyone mask per session.
Just as you canmultimaskon your face, you could do the same on your body.
Just apply the different mask types to the areas as needed.
It’s a custom approach that Fernandez enjoys.
Your skin and possibly your mental health will be better for it.
After all, we could all use a little pampering in times like these.