Of all the pore cleaning, makeup removing, skin smoothing products I reach for every night, masks have plopped itself high and mighty on my nightly treatment pedastol. I know we're advised not to use it every night so, I tear myself away from those goo-filled tubes and clay-filled pots every other night to cut down my use - to 3 or 4 times a week. Still excessive, I know. I can't resist. Masks are like a concentrated shot of purification and revitalization. Leaving the skin refreshed and bare of any impurities as dirt, dead skin cells and left over makeup. Furthermore, not only do they purify, recent high-tech masks now provide a direct and effective dose of energy, therapy and replenishment that the skin needs after being under attack all day from environmental enemies as pollution, UV rays and free-radicals.
Introducing to you, my recent top picks and long-standing faves (from testing over 100 throughout my teenage and tween years) of hard-working, multi-tasking masks:
To PURIFY
Christine Chin's Pore Purifying Masque - this mask ranks at top as the hardest working cleaner I know (and I definitely have gotten acquainted with over 100, at least). From the celeb facialist who attends to the complexion of celebs like Gisele, Kate Moss and Rachel Weisz, the oil-absorbing zinc oxide, blemish-drying sulpher and oil-controlling witch hazel extract bring fast relief to occasional acne-prone, combination to oily complexions. Leaves skin unbelievably silky soft and feeling deeply cleansed without tightness. You HAVE to test this at least once, but beware, it's very habit-forming.
To BRIGHTEN
Seikisho Mask White - Don't be fooled!! This mask is actually a pure black wonder, thanks to the nano black powder that creates an instant airtight seal allowing ingredients to be absorbed quickly. Good for any skin types, this high-tech mask is the first peel-off formula to contain Vitamin C to suppress the production of melanin (the culprit behind aging-spots, skin pigmentation and freckles). Chock full of Chinese and Japanese herb extracts to hydrate, brighten the skin tone and regulate sebum production, this airtight mask immediately injects the skin with vitality and radiance. 
To MOISTURIZE
Clinique Moisture Surge Extra Thirsty Skin Relief - my favorite line of defense for dry, blistery days, this fast-relieving moisture boost comforts, soothes and softens even the drying patches in 5 minutes. The soft, creamy baby pink formula can be applied even over make up (in times of urgent need) and a little trick of the trade? Leave it spread thin all over the face during airplane trips to protect the skin from the drying air. Leave on over night and wake up to supple, soft skin - it's worth toting around!
For LIPS
Decleor Hydra Floral Anti-Pollution Eye and Lip Moisturizing Mask - kiss away flaky, dry lips with just one swipe. This intense lip treatment is a natural cocktail of plant extracts and essential oils of hydrating and replenishing flower petals. For a quick pout-fix, gently slough off the old, peeling layer with a face exfoliater - the old toothbrush way is too irritating on my lips so opt for face scrubs with apricot seeds or other micro-beads which leaves lips soft and smooth without tearing it apart! Then, apply a thin layer of the mask and 5 minutes later, wuala! Lips are kissable and velvety smooth.
For EYES
Carita Progressif Anti-Rides Eye Contour Micro-Mask Express and DuWop I Gels for Tired Eyes - both perfect for revitalizing tired eyes, reducing puffiness and soothing the entire eye area, these two are my go-to relaxation tools after a long day of computer glaring. For delicate skin around the eyes that need more moisture and anti-aging care, the Carita ready-to-use single-dose patch provides an immediate smoothing comfort over the entire eye area, moisturizing and plumping up fatigued skin. While, the DuWoop I Gel cools and soothes your senses with the aroma therapeutic effects of custom blended essential oils as chamomile, yarrow and lavender, reducing eye swelling at the same time. Ok, so I lied...on the days that my face isn't black or white, my eyes or lips get their royal treatment! It's my you're-at-home, let's chillax, mental trigger...must give lots of props to my adorable boyfriend who tells me I look cute when I have them on!!
xox
