From dark circles to blemishes, the best masks to treat trouble spots on your face

A skincare mask is an indulgence, not only for the time-out it gives us, but also for its complexion benefits. Applying a mask on a weekly basis helps to cleanse pores and remove any debris on the surface of the skin.

There are myriad masks to choose from and they carry out a multitude of tasks: clarifying, brightening, hydrating, soothing, anti-ageing, decongesting … Here are a few of our current favourites and the best way to utilise them.

There are myriad masks to choose from and they carry out a multitude of tasks.Credit: Getty Images

First, remember to always apply a mask over a cleansed face, preferably after showering as the steam helps open the pores. For gentle exfoliation, The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque ($42) is perfect for oily and acne-prone skin because its main ingredients (salicylic acid, kaolin and charcoal) slough off dead skin cells and speed up the healing process of inflamed pimples.

If glowy, hydrated, bright-looking skin is your jam, skincare specialist Kaye Scott from The Clinic in Sydney recommends Aspect Hydrating Mask ($69). “It’s also great for menopausal and post-menopausal skin,” she says.

A great all-rounder is the Youth to the People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Mask ($81). It boasts four plumping, moisture-boosting ingredients – squalane, hyaluronic acid, betaine and vitamin C. For an overnight boost for tired-looking skin try Fresh Floral Recovery Calming Mask ($41) with squalane to smooth and soften skin.

Our latest obsession is the exfoliating and hydrating Tatcha The Clarifying Clay Mask ($116) which switches from green to red after it’s been massaged in so you know when it’s time to rinse it off. Genius.

Sheet masks also have a special place in our hearts and are perfect for travel, not just to lock moisture into the skin but to give fellow passengers a fright. Try Société Rejuvenating Peptide Mask ($179) to lock in moisture and Aceology Anti-Aging Gold Eye Mask ($49) which has peptides and botanicals to target the delicate eye area.

You can also take your regimen up a notch with customised masking, which targets problem areas on skin – for instance dark circles under the eyes, blemish-prone cheeks, an oily T-zone or rosacea – using different masks. Here is one multi-mask prescription we recommend: apply an enzyme mask on an oily T-Zone, a rosehip mask on marionette lines, a pigmentation mask on cheeks, then seal it all with a soothing charcoal jelly mask. Now all you have to do is lie back and relax.

Ask Steph

How do I top up my sunscreen without having to remove my make-up and start from scratch?

Try misting a lightweight, non-greasy SPF 50 over your make-up. We like Ultra Violette Preen Screen SPF 50 Reapplication Mist ($42), which also leaves a subtle glow.

Follow Stephanie Darling on Instagram @mrssdarling. Send questions to [e-mail].

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