Why you should use a face mask in the shower, according to a dermatologist

You may already wash your face in the showerbut have you ever thought about taking it one step further by disguising yourself and showering? Applying face masks while you shower can benefit your skin even more than applying the product to dry, cleansed skin. " pores open in the shower due to the heat and therefore ready to absorb the beneficial ingredients that make up face mask", He speaks Dr. Marnie Nussbaum, NYC Certified Dermatologist and Skincare.com Consultant. "This ensures optimal moisture absorption and sealing in natural lipids." Keep reading to learn about all the benefits of shower masks and what types of face masks work best.

How to use a face mask in the shower

When you first step into the shower, start by washing your face and immediately apply the mask. “Then let the mask work while you take care of your hair and body,” advises Dr. Nussbaum. “Finally, remove the mask and, depending on the type, rinse and dry or massage into the skin.” 

Just be sure to read the instructions on the face mask package to make sure you leave it on for the right amount of time. “Exfoliating masks usually need to be removed after a much shorter period than moisturizing or brightening masks. So don't think that all masks are the same." As a general rule, Dr. Nussbaum reminds you to always avoid eye and lip contact when masking.

The Best Types of Face Masks to Use in the Shower

Whether a face mask is suitable for use in the shower depends on the product itself. Needless to say, sheet masks are not the best idea considering they have to stick to your skin to work and overnight masks should be reserved for, you guessed it, before bed. “I would limit it to exfoliators, moisturizers, and brighteners,” says Dr. Nussbaum. “Also, any mask designed for acne or oily skin may not work well on damp skin in the shower because they need a clean, dry canvas to achieve the most effective results.” 

One of our favorite masks to use in the shower is Kiehl's Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Maskwhich is intended to be applied to wet skin. Formulated with kaolin and bentonite clay, it helps remove impurities and improve skin texture. Clay masks can be a little dirty, so washing them off in the shower is ideal.