The Fashion Spot has compiled a list of 10 common mistakes you could be making when using face masks. Read below and find out how you can achieve the best results when using them.

1. Not prepping your skin properly

Before applying a sheet mask, it is essential that your face is completely cleansed. Excess dirt and makeup trapped underneath a mask can have negative effects on your skin, reversing the benefits of the sheet mask. Alicia Yoon from popular Korean beauty site Peach & Lily says sheet masks should be applied to a freshly cleaned and toned complexion to achieve optimal results.

2. Overlooking the instructions

Following the package’s instructions, unfolding the mask and applying it seems simple enough. While it may seem like an obvious process, it’s important to follow the instructions on the packaging to ensure you’re treating your skin appropriately and maximizing results. Not all sheet masks are the same, therefore some may involve different steps.

3. Not having the mask adhere to your face

It’s worth taking some extra time to ensure your mask adheres properly to your face to achieve the best results. Yoon suggested “to place [it] gently on the face matching all the cut-outs to your eyes nose and mouth. Then smooth the whole mask down over your skin. The more the mask clings to skin and intermingles with skin, the more the essence in the sheet mask will absorb into skin, so be sure to try to keep everything hugging the skin as much as possible.” A good analogy is to treat your sheet mask as adding another layer of skin – keep it as smooth as possible.

4. Applying moisturizer before putting on mask

Cleansing and toning are essential before putting on a mask, and finish the routine with moisturizing. Save the moisturizer for after your mask has come off for prime results.

5. Not removing the backing from your mask

Some sheet masks have a protective layer to stop them from sticking to themselves when folded up in the package. Not removing the layer will prevent you from getting the best results, as it will hinder the mask in adhering better to the shape of your face.

Read also: 10 common habits that could damage your skin

6. Wearing the mask for too long

Leaving your sheet mask on for a longer period won’t enhance its results on your skin. “If the sheet mask dries up too much, reverse osmosis can happen and moisture can be sucked back out of the skin into the dry mask. Be sure to remove the mask while it’s still damp with essence,” said Yoon.

7. Washing face after applying sheet mask

There’s a reason your sheet mask leaves essence on your skin after it’s removed. Sheet masks continue to benefit your skin after you remove it, so don’t wash your face immediately after. Take advantage of the hydrating residue left and let it soak into your skin to achieve the best results. However, if it’s making your skin feel tacky, Yoon suggests switching masks.

8. Not patting in the excess essence

Take advantage of every drop of essence in your sheet mask. If you wipe off the excess essence with a tissue or cotton ball, refer to the above point – it’s the same as washing your face. Experts recommend patting the residue into your skin until it’s fully absorbed and applying any excess essence in the packaging to your neck and décolletage.

9. Discarding the rest of your skin care routine

Unfortunately, a sheet mask isn’t going to put you on the fast-track to amazing skin after one session. It’s always important to follow up a sheet mask with moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and help the essence to continue benefiting your skin. According to Yoon, while it’s not always necessary to use moisturizer afterward, it will seal in all the moisture and great ingredients (from the sheet mask), and prevent it from evaporating out.

For serum application, do so before moisturizer, but Yoon said that it’s not essential. If you do decide to use serum, remember to only use a smaller amount than you usually do.

10. Blowing off sunscreen

Sun protection is important to protect skin from aging, but so many of us forget to wear SPF. The average sheet mask won’t cover you for SPF protection, so always remember to layer up after a morning sheet mask session. Yoon said after a morning mask, you should be using moisturizer and sunscreen. (geo/wng)