One of the most popular beauty items among models, makeup artists, skincare consultants and other beauty experts is a high-quality, soothing gel mask. This one skincare item works hard to make all types of skin look and feel more beautiful. It is generally kept chilled, and is used to calm irritated skin, as well as to shrink pores and blood vessels. It is always kept on set by makeup artists, in order to shrink the bags and lighten the blue under models’ eyes.
There are different types of soothing gel masks, and even plain aloe vera gel can be used. The best gel masks tend to be the ones made with natural ingredients. This means that you should check the ingredients list before you decide to buy a particular item. Ingredients to look for include aloe vera, purified water, some soothing essential oils and sometimes glycerin. If choosing an aloe vera gel instead of a blended mask product, look for pure aloe vera gel, never an aloe vera gel that includes mineral oil or petroleum-based ingredients. It is also important to choose a product that does not contain artificial colorants.
To use the gel mask or aloe vera gel, apply a generous amount all over the face, including under the eyes, after washing your skin. Do not get it in the eyes themselves. Let it sit for five minutes, and then rinse the product away. Finish with moisturizer and makeup, as usual. Remember that the mask works best when it has been stored in the refrigerator.
Different brands carry different types of gel masks and aloe vera gels. My own personal favorite is Aveda’s Intensive Hydrating Masque, which contains aloe vera and soothing essential oils. It can be purchased at any Aveda location, including the Douglas J. Aveda Institute, which is located on Commerce Avenue in Grand Rapids.
Now that you know the benefits of gel masks, be sure to learn how to hide dark circles with Patty Dimucci, another Examiner.
Product review disclaimer: While I was initially trained in skincare by Aveda, I am not being compensated in any way for providing the product review of the Intensive Hydrating Masque, or for advocating the Aveda location. It is a product that I frequently use, and is the best of its kind that I have found.
Comments