Multi-Masking Is Not A Gimmick

Ever heard the term multi-masking?

It’s a beauty trend that has been on our radar for a few years now. Initially, we wrote it off as a fad. (With such a punny name, how could multi-masking be trusted? Skin care is serious business… right?) However, here we are, two or three years later, ready to eat our words. 

Similar to multi-tasking, multi-masking is about using multiple masks at the same time. Like a game of paint-by-numbers, the idea is to apply an oil-controlling mask to your t-zone, a hydrating mask to your dry patches, anti-ageing mask under your eyes, and so on. 

Alpha-H Clinical Education and Training Manager LeeAnne Leslie says this trend has legs. Think about it: your skin is a living organ. Due to a number of genetic and lifestyle factors, “different parts of the skin have different needs,” Leslie explains. Multi-masking allows you to customise your facial at home. 

The trick is to know your skin and find the products to suit. As always, “it’s important not to get caught up in what’s trending.” Consider your skin’s needs and the kind of result you’re after. “Some masks deliver instant ‘party-prep’ results while others work their magic throughout the night.” 

Leslie gives us the hot tip on the ingredients to look for in your next mask:

Key ingredients: “Look for ingredients that gently resurface, such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs). Retinol (Vitamin A) and niacinamide (Vitamin B) also target the signs of ageing. Ingredients that respect the skin’s integrity and work to provide barrier protection and hydration (think: hyaluronic acid and jojoba oil) are also important.”

Gritty Pretty loves: Alpha-H Beauty Sleep Power Peel ($129) and La Prairie Luxe Sleep Mask ($570).

Key ingredients: “Look for oil soluble exfoliants (ie. salicylic acid) that work beneath the skin to decongest. Ingredients with natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties – including tea tree, thyme and eucalyptus – are beneficial as well.”

Gritty Pretty loves: Innisfree Jeju Volcanic Pore Clay Mask ($20) and The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Mask ($21.90).

Key ingredients: “Look for ingredients that work to improve skin clarity and skin tone, such as Vitamin C, retinol and AHAs (including glycolic acid).”

Gritty Pretty loves: KORA Organics Turmeric Brightening & Exfoliating Mask ($62) and Aceology Brightening Treatment Mask ($69).

Key ingredients: “Look for ingredients that draw moisture to the skin, such as hyaluronic acid. Ingredients that help fortify barrier function (hello, Vitamin B) are great for retaining hydration. Natural oils such as macadamia mimic the skin’s natural lipids and are rich in essential fatty acids – perfect for parched dry and dehydrated skins.”

Gritty Pretty loves: Frank Body Glow Mask ($21.95) and Skinstitut Hydrating Mask ($49).

Tell us, is multi-masking a beauty trend you can get behind? Or do you think it’s too much fuss? We’d love to hear from you in the comment section below.