How To Get The Best Out Of Your Mud Mask With These Top Tips!

There's something about a mud mask that just feels so good. Maybe it's the way it makes your skin feel after you take it off, or maybe it's because it is as relaxing as it is functional. Whatever the reason, mud masks are a popular skincare treatment and for good reason!

The minerals in the mud exfoliate dead skin cells, dirt, oil, and other impurities whilst helping to hydrate your skin and lock in moisture making it an excellent multi-tasking ingredient for all skin types and ideal for those with dryer, more dull skin.

Mud masks are not only for those with oily skin

We all know that mud draws out pore-clogging dirt and excess sebum and helps tighten pores, making it ideal for oily skin, but it’s beneficial to indulge in a mud mask even if you don’t suffer from frequent breakouts or oily skin. These earthy masks help to eliminate dust and other deep-rooted impurities, leaving behind a healthier, plump and clearer complexion.

You should always look for a mud mask that contains natural ingredients that won’t clog your pores. So, avoid masks with ingredients like palm oil, coconut oil or Sodium Laureth Sulfate which are known pore-clogging (comedogenic) ingredients.

Even if you have dry skin, you can use a mud mask. Mud is water-based and therefore a hydrating ingredient. Look for a mud mask with additional hydrating elements like glycerine or moisturising oils for that extra hydration boost.

Those with sensitive skin should find a mask with soothing ingredients like chamomile extract or aloe vera.

Make sure you do your research and do a patch test to see how your skin reacts when using a new mask.

If you want to get the most out of your mud mask, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Below are some top tips for getting the best out of your mud mask.

15 tips to ensure the performance of your mud mask

1. Always cleanse your skin first otherwise you’re layering your mask onto accumulated dirt and bacteria on your skin.

2. Use a clean applicator brush otherwise dirt and bacteria from your hands will end up on your face.

3. Even though it might seem like applying a thicker layer will get better results, this isn’t the case. Using too much means it will take longer for your skin to absorb all the goodness and you are simply wasting product. Applying a thin layer is enough for the mask to work its magic.

4. Avoid your eye and lip area when applying your mask. Since we don’t have many oil glands near in these areas, applying a mud mask might strip the little oil that is left near your eyes and lips. This can dry out these regions and cause premature wrinkles and fine lines!

5. Apply your mud mask down your neck and décolleté.

6. You can fast-track the lifecycle of your spot by applying mud to it which will help bring the spot to a head sooner. Make sure you don’t do this before a big event!

7. If you’ve been soaking in a steamy bath, the skin around your pores is softened. Applying your mask at this time can help it suck up the deeper sebum and oil pockets and work even better.

8. Always remove your mud mask before it gets 100% dry and starts to crack. When your mask is damp, your skin can absorb the beneficial minerals and effects of the mud. When the mask begins to feel tight and dry on your skin, you’re actively losing moisture from your skin.

9. Gently remove your mud mask with a konjac sponge or washcloth using lukewarm water in circular motions. This will help to exfoliate your skin and cutdown clean-up time as remnants of your mask won’t end up all over your hands and sink.

10. Once you’ve washed your mask off, splash your face with cold water to tighten your pores and prevent dirt and oil getting in.

11. Always apply hydrating and soothing serums and moisturisers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and aloe vera after your mask to seal in your new-found hydration.

12. Natural water separation can occur in mostly natural masks. If you find your mud mask is watery at the top, gently stir the mask using a clean applicator brush.

13. Mud masks tend to dry out over time. You can mix your mask with a small amount of rose water or drinking water in a separate bowl to make sure you don’t have to pull or stretch your skin when applying your mask.

14. Remember to store your mask in a cool, dry area away from direct heat or sunlight and to seal the product between uses.

15. Keep an eye on the expiry date on your mud mask. Using a fresh mud mask ensures that the ingredients are effective, and you get the most out of your mask.

Vitamin and mineral-rich, mud is well known for its amazing cleansing, exfoliating, and brightening properties and is easily one of the best things you can slather on your skin. The trick to getting the most out of your mud mask is to look for the ingredients for your specific skin type, follow the tips above, and don’t overdo it. You should use a mud mask 2-3 times a week for no more than 10 minutes at a time.

Thinking of trying out a new mask? Why not try our Dead Sea Mineral Mask which purifies, hydrates and brightens the skin and is suitable for all skin types and ideal for those with dryer, more dull skin.