Face masks: which kind, and how often
Clay, hydrating, sheet or exfoliating? Learn which face mask suits your skin type, how long to leave it on and how many times a week to use it.
Written by the Glowpedia team · not yet reviewed by our dermatologist
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Quick answer Most people do well with a face mask 1–3 times a week. Hydrating, sheet and soothing masks are the gentlest; clay masks suit oily areas 1–2 times a week; exfoliating acid masks are best kept to once a week, or less if your skin is sensitive.
Face masks give your skin a short, concentrated dose of hydration, oil control or gentle exfoliation. They are optional: a mask is an add-on to your daily routine, not a replacement for cleansing, moisturizing and sunscreen. The right type and frequency depend on your skin and on what else you already use.
The main types of face masks
| Mask type | Common ingredients | Best for | How often |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hydrating or cream | Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides | Dry, dehydrated or normal skin | 1–3 times a week |
| Sheet mask | Usually a hydrating serum | Most skin types | 1–3 times a week |
| Clay | Kaolin, bentonite | Oily and combination skin | 1–2 times a week |
| Exfoliating | AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), BHA (salicylic acid), enzymes | Dull, rough or oily skin | Once a week, twice at most |
| Soothing | Colloidal oatmeal, green tea extract | Sensitive or redness-prone skin | 1–3 times a week |
Leave a mask on for the time the label gives, usually 5–20 minutes. Leaving it on longer does not make it work better, and with exfoliating masks it raises the risk of irritation.
How often, by skin type
- Oily skin: a clay mask 1–2 times a week on the T-zone, plus a hydrating mask if your skin feels tight. See oily skin.
- Dry skin: hydrating or cream masks 1–3 times a week. Skip clay, or use it only on oily spots. See dehydrated skin.
- Combination skin: try “multi-masking”: clay on the nose, forehead and chin, a hydrating mask on the cheeks.
- Sensitive skin: start with a soothing or hydrating mask once a week. Avoid fragrance, essential oils, alcohol-heavy formulas and gritty scrubs.
- Acne-prone skin: a clay or salicylic acid mask once a week can help with oil, but it won't replace your acne treatment.
- Darker skin prone to dark marks: go easy on exfoliating masks (once a week or less), since irritation can leave marks that last for months.
Not sure of your skin type? Take the skin type quiz.
How to use a mask, step by step
- Cleanse your face and pat it dry.
- Spread a thin, even layer, staying away from your eyes and lips.
- Set a timer for the time on the label.
- Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry. With a sheet mask, remove the sheet and gently pat the leftover serum in.
- Follow with moisturizer. After an exfoliating mask, wear broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30 or higher the next day.
Evening is the easiest time for acid masks because your skin won't meet the sun right away. Wondering where a mask fits in your routine? See skin care layering order.
Don't double up on actives
The most common mistake is stacking exfoliants. On the night you use an exfoliating mask, skip your retinoid, exfoliating toner and face scrub. Count exfoliating masks as part of your weekly exfoliation, not on top of it (see how often to exfoliate). Also avoid masks that repeat the same actives you already use daily. If you use prescription acne or anti-aging products, ask your dermatologist before adding acid masks.
If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor before using masks that contain retinoids or high-strength salicylic acid.
Test first, and rinse if it burns
Before using a new mask on your whole face, do a patch test. A mild tingle that fades within a minute or two can be normal with some acids. Burning, stinging that keeps getting worse, itching or swelling are not: rinse the mask off right away with cool water and stop using it.
A mask can make your skin feel softer or less shiny for a day or two. Lasting change comes from your daily routine.
What you need for this
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See a dermatologist if a mask leaves you with burning, swelling, hives or a rash that doesn't settle within a day or two, or if acne or dark spots you're treating with masks aren't improving after 6–8 weeks.
Questions people ask
Can I use a face mask every day?
Daily masking isn't necessary. Some gentle hydrating masks are made for frequent use, but clay and exfoliating masks used every day can dry out and irritate skin. For most people, 1–3 times a week is plenty.
Is it better to use a mask in the morning or at night?
Either works. Night is easier for exfoliating masks because your skin won't meet the sun right away. Whenever you use one, wear sunscreen the next day.
Should I wait until a clay mask cracks?
No. Rinse it off at the time on the label. Letting clay dry until it cracks can leave skin tight and irritated, especially if it's dry or sensitive.
Do I need to rinse after a sheet mask?
Usually not. Pat the leftover serum into your skin and follow with moisturizer. If your skin feels sticky or tingles, rinse with lukewarm water.