GLOSSARY

WORTH KNOWING

Effects, applications and scientific background.

Skincare Guide - Mask Care

Mask care – intensive skin care with immediate and deep-acting effects

Mask care describes concentrated cosmetic formulations that remain on the skin for a limited time and achieve visible results through high concentrations of active ingredients. They serve to regenerate, soothe, or deeply hydrate and are considered an effective addition to the weekly routine.

How it works

Masks create an occlusive environment that facilitates the absorption of active ingredients. The temporary covering slightly increases skin temperature, allowing active ingredients to penetrate deeper into the epidermis. Studies show that percutaneous absorption can be increased by up to 60% with masks ( González A et al., 2023 ).

Mask types

  • Cream masks: rich and nourishing, ideal for dry or mature skin.
  • Sheet masks: soaked in serum, they provide intense moisture.
  • Clay and mud masks: absorb sebum, cleanse pores and mattify.
  • Gel masks: cool, soothe and promote moisture retention.
  • Overnight masks: have a regenerating and barrier-strengthening effect overnight.

Active ingredients with proven effectiveness

Commonly used active ingredients include hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, clay minerals, peptides, and plant extracts. A placebo-controlled study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2023) showed that sheet masks containing 0.2% hyaluronic acid increased skin hydration by 45% within 20 minutes ( Lee SY et al., 2023 ).

Mask care in the NATURFACTOR® routine

Masks can be ideally combined with intensive skincare. After removing the mask, the Porcelain Skin Serum is recommended to seal in the absorbed moisture and strengthen the skin barrier. For dry or sensitive skin, the Blue Crystal Drops Facial Oil can be applied as a final step to lock in lipids and antioxidants.

Benefits of regular use

  • Fast, visible results for dull or stressed skin
  • Increased drug absorption through temporary occlusion
  • Strengthening of the skin barrier and improved elasticity
  • Increased well-being through sensory relaxation

Scientific perspective

New research is investigating hydrogel and bio-cellulose masks that enable a uniform release of active ingredients. According to a review article in Frontiers in Pharmacology (2024), such carrier materials significantly improve hydration and reduce irritation compared to traditional cream masks ( Chen L et al., 2024 ).

Instructions for use

Masks should be used 1-2 times a week after cleansing. Excess product can be gently massaged in or removed with a tissue. Combining them with serums or oils immediately afterward maximizes their effectiveness. It's important to choose masks suited to your skin type to maintain a balance between cleansing and nourishing.

Conclusion

Mask treatments are an effective addition to any skincare routine. They combine relaxation with clinically proven efficacy and support visible regeneration. Combined with products like the Porcelain Skin Serum or the Blue Crystal Drops, they create a luxurious, sensory ritual for radiant, balanced skin.

Sources

  1. González A et al. (2023): Occlusive Effects of Cosmetic Masks on Active Ingredient Penetration – J Cosmet Dermatol 22(5)
  2. Lee SY et al. (2023): Hyaluronic Acid Sheet Masks and Skin Hydration – Int J Cosmet Sci 45(4)
  3. Chen L et al. (2024): Advances in Hydrogel and Bio-Cellulose Mask Technology – Front Pharmacol 15
  4. Shin JM et al. (2024): Skin Tightening Formulations and Barrier Function – Cosmetics 11(3)

Tags: mask care, skin care, hyaluronic acid, porcelain skin serum, blue crystal drops, moisture boost