This is an article on how to wear and apply an eye mask.
I love anything eye-related skincare and beauty tips. For as long as I can remember, I’ve always had very dark under eyes. And as I age day by day, I also notice some lines along my eyes starting to form and appear. Because of these reasons, I’ve always had an interest in eye-related skincare.
From dark under eyes, wrinkles, fine lines, and puffiness, the right eye product can help you solve your problems. Eye creams, serums, masks and patches, and even DIY treatments, I made sure to try them all. Eye masks and under eye patches have easily become a staple in people’s skincare routines, all thanks to the wonderful results they offer with every use.
With the ongoing popularity of eye masks and under eye patches, there’s also been ongoing debate on the actual proper and correct use and application for the best results.
For the correct way of applying and wearing eye masks, read on below!
What are Eye Masks?
Under eye patches and masks are designed to be applied and fit your under eyes. They often target dark under eyes, wrinkles, crow’s feet, fine lines, and puffiness. Their formulas are also nourishing, hydrating, and moisturizing.
Some under eye patches even soothe tired eyes so you can definitely relax and de-stress when you pop a pair on. Under eye patches and masks are mini masks that are soaked in essence and serums formulated for its intended purposes. Some target dark circles, puffiness, dryness, and some even with anti-aging benefits.
They can be made out of gel patches, cloth, or other materials. Regardless, eye masks and under eye patches are specifically made to be used on the under eye’s delicate area and sensitive skin. They can either be packed in a tub or in individual packaging.
Benefits of Eye Masks and Under Eye Patches: Do They Actually Work?
The skin under our eyes is delicate and thin, thus they need all the extra care they can get, especially as we grow older.
For one, under eye patches and eye masks are a great source of nourishment and moisture. As people grow older, the more their under eyes are prone to dryness. This dryness, if not resolved, can lead to early onset of fine lines and wrinkles. Plus, they’re made specifically for application on the delicate under eye area, so that is a huge plus.
When it comes to choosing eye patches and masks to buy, it’s best to approach it with focus on the ingredients. If you’d like to make your own, read How to Make an Eye Mask.
For dark circles, look for under eye patches eye masks with ingredients like caffeine and niacinamide. For under eye patches with anti-aging benefits to target fine lines, wrinkles, and crow’s feet, look out for retinol and peptides. And for hydrating purposes, hyaluronic acid and ceramides are some ingredients you want to look for.
How To Apply Eye Mask
1. Cleanse your face
Before applying the eye patches and masks, you want to clean and wash your face as you usually would. After making sure that all dirt and debris has been cleaned off, your toner remains to be the first step in your skincare routine so go ahead and apply that.
2. Take eye masks out
The eye masks and patches will be the second step in your routine. Go ahead and take the masks out. If they’re in a tub, use the mini tong that comes with it to avoid contaminating the rest.
3. Apply on under eye area
Apply one eye mask on each under eye area. Position it just right so that it covers the entire under eye area but won’t stab you in the eyes.
Now, there’s been debate on how to properly place the eye masks under the eyes. Many are confused whether the thinner side of the eye mask should sit on the inner or outer corner of the eye. The thing is, both ways are correct. Eye patches and masks will give the same results regardless how they’re placed.
4. Let it sit and absorb
Usually, you would need to leave the eye patches under your eyes for about 10 to 15 minutes to let it absorb and do what it’s supposed to do. Though, make sure to read the package on the recommended time you should leave it on as it can vary from brand to brand.
5. Remove and tap
Once the time is up, remove the eye masks and discard. You don’t have to wash anything off. Just gently tap any remaining essence under your eyes to improve results.
6. The rest of your skincare routine
With all the remaining essence and serum absorbed, you can now proceed with the rest of your skincare routine.
When is the Best Time to Use Eye Masks?
One can choose to use and apply eye patches any time of the day and week. Many people choose to use them in the morning before their makeup routine just to de-puff and look their best for the day without all the under eye puffiness.
Some prefer to do it at night, at the end of the day, as part of their nightly skincare routine. Many people find it a way to relax, especially if they have trouble sleeping after a long day. It’s a great way to relax tired eyes to fall asleep better and get a good, deep sleep.
While you may choose to do it once a day and already reap the benefits, using eye masks both in the morning and evening can offer more and even better results for your skin concerns.
Wearing and Applying Eye Masks: Other Dos and Don’ts to Keep in Mind
- Do not reuse eye masks and patches. Each eye mask in your tub or package is meant to be used only once and disposed of once used.
- Make sure to read the manufacturer’s notes and instructions on how to use and apply the eye masks you bought. Though there are general guidelines on using them, they may still vary per brand.
- Leave the eye masks for as long as recommended by the manufacturer. Don’t leave it on not long enough or too long. Leaving it on too short may not give you your expected results. And leaving it on too long may lead to reactions.
- Do not leave eye masks on overnight. The masks can dry and stick to your skin, or worse, can lead to irritations and reactions. This is the complete opposite of your goal.
- Use eye masks before the serum, essence, and cream stage of your skincare routine. Applying them before the eye mask can lead to the eye masks not working at all.
Conclusion
Under eye patches and masks are a great skincare staple to add into your everyday routine. On top of addressing concerns of dark under eye circles, wrinkles, crow’s feet, fine lines, and puffiness, it’s also a great way to relax and des-stress after a long day.
There’s really no “right” way to wear under eye patches and masks. So long as you wash your face and follow the manufacturer’s notes and instructions, you’re good to go.
Also, remember to not wash your face after the eye mask as you’ve already done that part. Just gently tap the remaining essence to not waste any.
And that has been our guide to eye masks and patches and how to wear them for the best results!
