To moisturize your skin, do you need to rely on facial masks?

That is not the case.

Many people believe that frequent use of facial masks is necessary to keep the skin hydrated and healthy. However, this view is not quite correct.

Although facial masks can provide a lot of moisture to the skin in a short period of time, it is not the only or most necessary means of moisturizing. Excessive use of facial masks may damage the skin barrier function and make the skin drier and more sensitive.

The key to skin moisturizing is to maintain the integrity and function of the skin barrier, which requires not only replenishing water, but also replenishing appropriate lipids and natural moisturizing factors. It is recommended that you choose moisturizing products suitable for your skin type, such as lotions or creams containing appropriate moisturizing ingredients. Such products can help lock in moisture in the skin and prevent moisture loss, and are a very mainstream moisturizing choice.

Objectively speaking, facial masks are not even a necessity for skin care. If you really like to use facial masks, the mainstream recommendation is to use them 1 to 2 times a week, and there is no need to use them frequently.

In addition, maintaining good living habits, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding prolonged exposure to dry environments all play an important role in moisturizing the skin.

Therefore, if you want to moisturize your skin, the most important thing is to establish a reasonable skin care plan, including using reliable moisturizing products and maintaining healthy living habits, rather than relying on facial masks.

Author: Tang Jiaoqing, MD, attending physician of dermatology

Review | Feng Jun, deputy chief physician of the Dermatology Department of Sinopharm Tongmei General Hospital