Double Masking: How To Apply Facial Masks
There’s nothing quite like a face mask to amp up your skin care routine. The right mask can deliver a shot of nutrition, plus all sorts of benefits — from hydrating to brightening the look of dark spots, absorbing excess oil and minimizing the look of fine lines and wrinkles. And because they are designed to deliver higher concentrations of ingredients, masks can give your skin an instant boost, making them an easy and convenient addition to your at-home routine. With so many potential benefits and formulas created for different needs, adding a masking step to your routine a couple of times a week can do a lot of good. But let’s take it a step further, shall we? If one mask is good, can doubling (or tripling) it be even better? Can you use two or more facial masks in one day? The answer is absolutely!
Double masking is gaining popularity, and for good reason. We all have different needs, and while there are masks that address multiple skin issues, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Whether it’s a change in seasons, fluctuating hormones or your skin is just in need of some TLC, the right combination to tackle those issues can change too. Using two or more masks in one session allows you to personalize a formula that will work for your specific needs and give you the results you’re looking for.
What Is Double Masking? | Layering | Video: How To Mix Skin Care Masks | Masking In Sequence | Masking In Combination | Other Ways To Multi-Mask
What Is Double Masking?
Double masking is essentially applying more than one mask at a time in the same self-care session. There are a few ways to do it:
- Layering involves applying one mask and then layering the next mask on top of it.
- Double masking in sequence is done by applying one mask, letting it sit for the recommended amount of time, then rinsing it off and applying the next one. This gives your skin a second helping of concentrated ingredients all in one sitting.
- Double masking in combination is about mixing the masks together (in your hands or a small bowl) and then applying the mixture to your face or other area.
- Spot masking (or multi-masking) is done by applying different masks to different parts of the face all at once. For example, if your T-zone is oily, but your cheeks are dry, applying masks that address the specific issue in each area of the face can provide a super customized treatment that targets the issue without aggravating the rest of your combination skin.
The benefits of a face mask depend on the ingredients they provide. Masks can deliver higher concentrations of ingredients to plump, hydrate and balance the skin. For example, masks containing hyaluronic acid have the added benefit of attracting and binding moisture, while a clay mask can help tighten and clarify skin. Gel face masks may be infused with ingredients that rehydrate and help the skin with recovery. Exfoliating masks may contain actives that slough off dulling dead skin cells and cleanse pores.
Ready to learn about mixing and matching your masks at home? Read on to find out more about which masks work beautifully together!
Double Masking In Layers
1. Radish Seed Refining Peel + Lime Stimulating Masque
The first type of double masking involves applying one mask on top of the other in layers, a technique that works wonders if you're a fan of both the Radish Seed Refining Peel and the Lime Stimulating Masque. Our Radish Seed Refining Peel contains radish seed extract to reduce the look of fine lines, plus whole grain oat that cleanses and gives the appearance of smoother skin. In addition, the Lime Stimulating Masque revives the skin so you may experience a very mild glow.
To get the most out of this dynamic duo, start by applying a small amount of the Radish Seed Refining Peel to the entire face. Next, apply the Lime Stimulating Masque directly on top of the first mask. Wait 5 – 10 minutes for the masks to dry, then scrub them off in a circular motion with a lukewarm face cloth.
2. Turmeric Energizing Treatment + Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Masque
Another mask combo that layers well is the Turmeric Energizing Treatment with the Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Masque. Formulated with turmeric, citrine gemstones and zeolite, the Turmeric Energizing Treatment offers a warm, exfoliating sensation with the purpose of revealing silky, luminous skin. Turmeric is an antioxidant, known to visibly brighten the appearance of skin and reduce the look of puffiness. The inclusion of citrine gemstones helps to energize and recharge the skin, while zeolite invigorates the skin’s appearance.
Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Masque brightens the appearance of the skin. More specifically, it contains the powerhouse ingredient Vitamin C, which delivers a brighter-looking complexion, evens out skin tone and diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Are you ready for a spicy experience that leaves the skin looking radiant? Apply one small scoop of the Turmeric Energizing Treatment powder into the outer cap and stir in a few drops of water until your mask looks fluffy in texture. Apply a thin layer to the entire face. Next, layer a small amount of the Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Masque on top. The Turmeric Energizing Treatment requires an application for a little longer than most of our other masks, so leave both masks on for approximately 30 minutes. Then you can remove them with a warm face cloth or rinse them off with lukewarm water.
Before we get to the next mask combination, watch Lead Skin Care Trainer Natalie Pergar explore two easy ways to combine your favorite masks.
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3. Raspberry Pore Refining Masque + Firm Skin Acai Masque
Don’t we all just want a smooth, firm-looking complexion? Try layering the Raspberry Pore Refining Masque and the Firm Skin Acai Masque to minimize and refine the look of pores. This combination also plumps and hydrates the appearance of skin with formulas designed to minimize the look of fine lines and wrinkles. Both masks share similar ingredients and benefits — the Raspberry Pore Refining Masque contains raspberry, blueberry and blackberry, while our Firm Skin Acai Masque contains the same berry blend plus the exotic acai berry. Raspberry is an antioxidant known to tighten the appearance of pores. Blackberry, blueberry and acai berry contain Vitamin C, which helps balance out the skin’s tone.
To use, emulsify a small amount of both masks in your hand. Add a few drops of water. Apply evenly over the entire face. Allow the masks to dry for 5 – 10 minutes and then remove with a warm face cloth.
Double Masking In Sequence
4. Clear Skin Probiotic Masque + Strawberry Rhubarb Masque
Another unique way of double masking is experiencing two face masks in a row. Apply the first mask, let it sit, then rinse and apply the second mask. With this application technique, the combination of our Clear Skin Probiotic Masque and Strawberry Rhubarb Masque creates one of our most effective pairings. Starting with the Clear Skin Probiotic Masque, you kick off your masking routine with yogurt and tea tree oil to help you achieve healthy, clear skin. In addition to these potent ingredients, the Clear Skin Probiotic Masque contains cooling cucumber that evens out the look of your skin tone. It also contains yogurt, a source of lactic acid. As the second product in this problem skin care duo, the Strawberry Rhubarb Masque provides additional gentle exfoliation, brightening your skin’s appearance and minimizing the look of pores. It even leaves your complexion looking refreshed, plumped and hydrated thanks to its inclusion of a Botanical Hyaluronic Acid Complex. The masque also contains shea butter and grape seed oil to nourish your skin.
Emulsify a small amount of Clear Skin Probiotic Masque in your hand with a few drops of water. Apply evenly over the entire face. Allow the mask to dry 5 – 10 minutes and then gently rinse off. Next, apply the Strawberry Rhubarb Masque and follow the exact same steps.
5. Eight Greens Phyto Masque — Hot + Calm Skin Arnica Masque
Spice things up in your skin care routine by adding hot paprika! You’ll find it in the award-winning Eight Greens Phyto Masque — Hot, a mask that gives your skin a unique tingling response, creating a temporary redness, before building into a rosy glow. That’s why this mask pairs so well with the soothing sensation of the Calm Skin Arnica Masque.
The Calm Skin Arnica Masque not only minimizes signs of redness, it also contains our Biocomplex2™ formulation: a booster of antioxidants, Coenzyme Q10 and Alpha Lipoic Acid to reduce the look of wrinkles and improve the appearance of the skin.
First, apply a thin layer of Eight Greens Phyto Masque — Hot to your face and leave it on for 5 – 10 minutes before washing it off. Please note that your skin will feel warm after application and may appear flushed for about one hour.
Next, with a clean face, apply a thin layer of the Calm Skin Arnica Masque and leave this on for 5 – 10 minutes before also washing it off. This should diminish the appearance of excessive redness and ensure that your complexion appears toned and balanced.
6. Eight Greens Phyto Masque — Hot + Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Masque
Consider using the Eight Greens Phyto Masque — Hot immediately followed by the Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Masque. The Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Masque contains a powerful formula of Vitamin C, which improves the appearance of skin elasticity and hydration. You will notice an improvement in the look of fine lines and wrinkles too.
Apply a small amount of Eight Greens Phyto Masque — Hot to your face and wait 5 – 10 minutes before rinsing. Next, apply the Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Masque to clean skin, leave on for 5 – 10 minutes and rinse off.
Double Masking In Combination
7. Bamboo Age Corrective Masque + Strawberry Rhubarb Masque
The Bamboo Age Corrective Masque and the Strawberry Rhubarb Masque is a pairing that plays well together. If your goal is skin that appears lifted and firm, this mask mixture is for you. The Bamboo Age Corrective Masque contains a Natural Retinol Alternative which firms the look of your skin, while the Strawberry Rhubarb Masque exfoliates to reveal a brighter-looking complexion. This combo will replenish and restore by visibly targeting the look of wrinkles and fine lines.
Mix the two masks together in your hands or in a small bowl and add a few drops of water. Apply the mixture evenly over the face and neck. Leave on for 5 – 10 minutes and remove with a warm, wet towel.
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Some Options To Mix, Pair Or Layer
Some masks can be combined a few different ways based on your needs. The following combinations can be mixed, paired or layered, depending on your desired results or even your schedule. Hint: Save time and create a powerful punch by mixing them together, which means less waiting time and only one rinsing session.
For best results, mix a small amount of these masks into your hand with a few drops of water. Apply evenly over the face, neck and décolleté. If layering, allow each mask to dry for 2 – 3 minutes before applying the subsequent mask. Leave on for 5 – 10 minutes. Remove with a warm, wet towel and follow with your favorite Eminence Organics serum. Use 1 – 2 times per week.
8. Eight Greens Phyto Masque — Not Hot + Bamboo Age Corrective Masque
Firm and revitalize your skin with this potent pairing. Mix, pair or layer the Eight Greens Phyto Masque — Not Hot with the Bamboo Age Corrective Masque to reveal refreshed skin, improve hydration and visibly smooth fine lines.
9. Eight Greens Phyto Masque — Not Hot + Strawberry Rhubarb Masque
If you want to refresh your complexion while indulging it with deep hydration, co-mingling these two favorites will get you there. Mix or layer them for mega benefits, or apply the Eight Greens, then rinse and apply the Strawberry Rhubarb Masque if you’ve got time to spare.
10. Eight Greens Phyto Masque — Not Hot + Strawberry Rhubarb Masque + Bamboo Age Corrective Masque
Three times the goodness! Use these three masks together for maximum benefits! Begin with the Eight Greens Phyto Masque — Not Hot, then use the Strawberry Rhubarb Masque and finish with the Bamboo Age Corrective Masque. Or layer all three together for a quick yet intensive treatment.
If you're after some more double masking tricks, watch our very own Media & Community Relations Manager Joyce C. sharing her tricks, featuring the spicy and award-winning Eight Greens Phyto Masque – Hot followed by a cooling Clear Skin Probiotic Masque.
Now that you’ve discovered this kind of mask cocktailing, are you going to try it? Let us know if the comments below or on social media. Check out our facial masks section for the skin care products that best suit your needs, or visit your nearest Eminence Organics Spa Partner to find out more.
This article was originally written in March 2015.