Since last year, when the beauty world was first abuzz with the joys of multimasking (see our post here), I’ve tried to put my finger on just why this microtrend is so popular. Sure, having a map of different textures and colours on your face makes for some pretty cool pictures, but it also strikes a chord on a more practical level.
Multimasking recognises that our skin isn’t one-size-fits-all. We have our blemish-prone days, and our dull days. Some days even the oiliest of skin types can actually feel pretty dehydrated in areas. Our skincare needs to be dynamic enough to deal with all of these different eventualities, and having a selection of treatment masks is a great way to achieve that goal.
In light of this Venn diagram-esque approach, Vichy has entered into the category with three brand new 10-minute masks: the Quenching Mineral Mask, the Double Glow Peel Mask and the Pore Purifying Clay Mask. Set aside your skin type for a second, because each of the Vichy masks is extremely handy to almost everyone.
The most helpful way that I’ve found to describe them would be as skincare for different ‘moments’. Pre-party, post-event, mid-time-of-the-month…. we’re all prone to a bit of a skincare wobble around these times, no matter our overall skin type. And then there’s the small matter of the different areas of our face having diverse needs (but don’t worry – these masks are perfect for that, too).
So, let’s meet the Vichy masks making their mark, shall we?
The Quenching Moment
With a rich texture and a high percentage of moisturising glycerin, this is the mask for all of those times when your skin is feeling tight, lacklustre and generally in need of some love. The Quenching Mineral Mask is an eye-opening lesson in hydration for me – it’s taught me that moisture doesn’t necessarily equal a creamy texture and an oil-rich formula. With its gorgeously thick gel texture and the minimal amount of oil in its formula, the mask really gives skin a cushiony boost. It has the additional benefit of a cooling touch, which makes heated, irritated skin feel instantly more at ease.
Immediately after use, the Quenching Mineral Mask makes skin look and feel plumper, smoother and better hydrated. Even my ultra-tight and dehydrated forehead was impeccably quenched after I used this as an overnight sleeping mask, and the results just get better and better over time. I’ve even been using it in a thin layer in place of my morning moisturiser, and its ultra-smooth base makes it the perfect primer for makeup. It also works incredibly well on localised areas of dryness; simply slather it onto the area, and let it do its thing.
With my dehydrated/dry skin type, the Quenching Mineral Mask was always going to be my favourite of the three. The word ‘quenching’ is like a siren call! But as much as I knew I’d like it, I wasn’t expecting the precious pot of blue gel to be my skincare discovery of the year so far – and it really is.
The Glowing Moment
The adverse effects of pollution, late nights, poor diet… there’re so many things that contribute to a dull, lacklustre complexion. The Double Glow Peel Mask is the bringer of the light, using double action exfoliation to buff away dead skin cells and reveal a clearer, fresher complexion. For city dwellers, this is the mask that will revive the luminosity of your skin after a week’s worth of tube journeys and smog. For everyone else, this mask is ideal for pre-event skin prep, or a weekly pamper session. You’ll be hooked once you see the instant results!
So, what does this double action actually encompass? The first wave is a chemical exfoliant comprised of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) from fruit acids, which nibble away at the bonds between dead skin cells that make skin look dull and uneven. As you rinse the mask away, a second wave of physical exfoliation is provided by fragments of volcanic rock origin that buff away the dead skin cells and diminish any rough areas (learn more about the difference between chemical and physical exfoliation here). Your skin’s newfound smoothness will refract light better, making it look more luminous and healthy. Makeup also applies much more smoothly after using this, making it perfect for special occasions.
I’ve been using this little number on a Sunday evening, so that my skin feels fresh and bright for the week ahead. It’s like a reset button for my complexion! Just once a week is enough for my sensitive skin, but you can use it up to twice a week for a little hump day boost.
The Mattifying Moment
Calling all those who suffer from long-term oiliness, those who have just a couple of hormonal days every month, and those who are shiny only in very specific areas – this mattifying mask was made for you. Its such a versatile treatment. You can use it every other day, or just once a month. You can apply it all over, or you can target the areas that you’d like to mattify and use another mask elsewhere. It’s completely up to you!
At the heart of this formula is a tag team of kaolin and bentonite clays, which do a phenomenal job of drawing impurities out of pores and regulating excess sebum. They’re really effective clays, but they don’t feel heavy or overly drying in the slightest, which is quite unusual (but then, all of the masks in the collection have surprising textures)! A rich infusion of Vichy’s mineralising thermal water keeps things feeling really light and fresh as the clays get to work deep cleansing your skin. It’s a joy to use.
I fall into the hormonal oiliness category, so I use the mask in very specific areas every so often. It’s helped to keep my skin feeling clarified, matte and – dare I say it – blemish-free. But then, I don’t have a huge issue with blemishes – I think mopping up the excess oil has just helped my skin to regulate itself better. Keep one to hand for SOS moments when your skin needs some gentle detoxing, stat.
Over to you!
Which of the new Vichy masks is catching your eye? Chat to us over @escentual, and we’ll help you to find your perfect fit.
