How to wear a medical mask correctly, which side should you put on your face? How long can you wear a medical protective mask, how often should you change it: rules for using a medical mask. Types of face masks: what they are and which ones you need

Face masks are one of the most popular cosmetic products for facial skin care. They are not used for daily care, but rather as an additional tool that helps achieve noticeable results in a short time. Which ones exist? types of face masks?

There is no clear classification of face masks, but it can be called several criteria, starting from which, we can name the main types of face masks. When choosing a face mask that is right for you, you need to take all these criteria into account.

The simplest classification, perhaps, is the classification by skin type. Almost all facial cosmetics are classified according to this type and can be intended for normal, dry, oily or combination skin. Also found universal masks, suitable for all skin types, and masks for aging skin.

The second criterion is purpose of the mask. Based on this criterion, perhaps, we can highlight the most a large number of types of masks:

  • cleansing;
  • moisturizing;
  • nutritious;
  • tonic;
  • tightening (lifting masks);
  • restorative;
  • whitening;
  • anti-aging;
  • softening;
  • exfoliating (peeling, masks with scrub effect);
  • masks to increase skin firmness and/or elasticity;
  • masks for wrinkle correction;
  • anti-fatigue masks.

These types of masks are rarely found in pure form": masks are usually performed at least two functions, say, nutrition and hydration, lifting and correction of wrinkles, etc. This is quite normal, but you should be wary if the manufacturer promises too much wide range mask actions. None cosmetic product You cannot simultaneously cleanse, moisturize, fight wrinkles and tighten the shape of your face (for example).

Finally, you can divide the masks by method of application and removal. The “lightest” option is foam masks. They are completely absorbed into the skin and do not require removal. They are usually used as an emergency remedy when, after a busy day, you also need to look good in the evening.

Perhaps the most common type of mask is cream masks. They are used for intensive skin care once or twice a week (depending on skin type). Cream masks can be roughly divided by consistency: gel-like, creamy, pasty.

Apply such masks for 15-20 minutes. There are different ways to remove mask remnants: some masks are washed off with water, after some it is enough to blot the skin paper napkin or cotton pad. There are also masks that do not require removal: residues that are not absorbed by themselves must be rubbed into the skin.

There are also masks that harden some time after application, turning into a mask in the literal sense of the word. These masks can be simply removed in one motion. They can be divided into cleansing film masks, which after hardening form an elastic film, and modeling masks, after hardening, forming a dense crust.

Plank masks usually have a liquid consistency, while modeling masks are powdery (before applying the mask, the powder is diluted with water to the desired thickness). By the way, in the form powder requiring dilution with water, other types of masks can also be produced, which do not harden after application, but require rinsing off.

IN last years became popular mask-compresses (masks on tissue based) . Such masks are cut from thin textile material according to face size. They are usually initially impregnated cosmetic composition(such masks are sold hermetically sealed in individual packaging). However, some masks need to be moisturized immediately before use; in this case, a textile base and an activator liquid applied to it are purchased.

As you can see, the range of face masks is very wide. If you need choose a face mask, focus primarily on your skin type and the effect you want to achieve.

Face masks in our store

Aromatics

Today we will talk about medical face masks. Let's find out what they are, how and how much to wear them, and whether they are beneficial. Read about all this in the article below.

for face

A medical mask is an individual means of protecting the respiratory system from viruses and bacteria that are transmitted by airborne droplets. They are disposable and reusable, but the first option is more common.

Disposable medical face masks are a bandage that is worn on the face, covering the mouth and nose. Most often it has 3 or 4 layers. It stays on your face with ties at the back or elastic loops that go over your ears.

History of origin

Yes, a medical protective face mask also has its own history. It is believed that the first such mask appeared in Europe back in the Middle Ages, when the bubonic plague epidemic was rampant. At that time they called it the “Plague Doctor mask.” At that time it looked rather strange, but despite that it was still practical. The beak, that is, the front part of the mask, was filled medicinal herbs or aromatic salts in order to protect the doctor’s sense of smell from nasty smells rotting flesh, and also to create an antibacterial environment inside the mask. The mask was worn over the entire face, and the eye holes were covered with glass.

In the 19th century, doctors began using woolen bandages with a valve. They were replaced by terrifying masks from the Middle Ages. Medical face masks in modern form appeared only at the beginning of the last century. This happened when Schroeder proved the effectiveness of cotton filters for air purification. The evidence was based on Louis Pasteur's research on the spread of microorganisms. Masks became especially widespread when the deadly Spanish flu epidemic broke out. Already by the 20s of the last century, the use gauze bandages medical staff has become mandatory.

IN modern world Most often, disposable dressings are used, which are made of non-woven materials.

Kinds

There are several types of medical face masks. Their main classification concerns their purpose. There are procedural (everyday) and specialized (surgical) masks. Treatment masks have 3 layers, are made from... disposable. They have a filter in the middle and 2 outer layers. Depending on the size, there are medical ones for the face and adults. They are used in clinics, hospitals and public places.

Specialized masks are those that consist of 4 layers, and in addition to 2 outer layers and a filter, they have an anti-liquid layer. It protects the face from biological fluids that are involved during the operation. Such masks can be with or without a screen. They are used only for operations.

Masks are also divided into sterile and non-sterile. The latter are most often used in Everyday life. Since the material is in contact with the outer layer of the skin, additional disinfection is not necessary. Sterile masks are applicable in laboratories, operating rooms, etc. IN normal conditions It is not advisable to use sterile masks, as they instantly lose their properties.

Material

In the Middle Ages, masks were made from just about anything. Then it was time for wool. But masks made from this material did not last long. Today, masks are made from nonwoven materials that consist of polymer fibers.

What does it consist of?

Medical face masks have 2 outer layers, which are their frame. There is also a filter that is located between the layers. Then there is an anti-fluid layer, but this is only found in surgical masks. There is a nose clip, an ear loop or elastic band, a nose clip and an anti-fluid shield, which is only found in specialized masks.

How much to wear?

Wearing the mask lasts 2-6 hours. The period of time largely depends on environmental conditions. Experts recommend wearing masks for no more than 2 hours during epidemics or health care facilities. Masks, which are used to protect against man-made environmental factors, can be worn for 3-6 hours.

Many people wonder which side to wear a medical mask to face. So, you need to wear them with the white side to your face. You can use the ear loops or ties to guide you: they are located on the side that should touch your face.

Efficiency

Do you want to know what a medical face mask is called? That's what it's called. If you thought the correct name was “respirator,” then you were wrong. Medical masks are often confused with those used to protect against airborne contaminants. By the way, many studies have shown that masks are effective only when they fit tightly to the face around the entire perimeter and do not allow air to pass through. If air leaks in, the desired effect will not be achieved. Even a small gap can leak up to 50% of all the air a person inhales. That is why for serious protection against microorganisms it is better to use RPE - technical

The effectiveness of masks has been called into question after surgical masks and respirators were shown to not protect doctors from exposure to harmful substances in the eyes. Experts also strongly recommend using RPE in this case.

However, research by scientists has not yet discovered big difference between health care workers who wore and those who wore surgical masks. Their incidence rates were the same. The fluctuations were quite insignificant, although the characteristics of the protective elements varied greatly.

Surgical masks are not considered suitable for respiratory protection against air pollution. But at the same time, they can reduce the risk of harmful substances entering the air from a sick person, and therefore should be used to protect the health of others.

In Russia there are no clear and justified scientific point recommendations for the use and selection of products personal protection. Respirators were practically equivalent to regular masks, which even by their design are not intended to protect the human respiratory system from polluted air (it is impossible to achieve a tight fit to the face, there is no testing of the material used for filtration).

Summing up the article, I would like to say that medical face masks are inexpensive means personal protective equipment, which is best to have with you at all times. Such a mask cannot guarantee absolute protection, but the risk of becoming infected with something will decrease many times. It is not so important whether research has been conducted on this matter or not, because the health of each person is in his own own hands. The main thing to remember is that if there is an opportunity to protect yourself, then it is better to do it than to regret it later. Safety measures come first.

Face masks - real secret weapon women. These concentrated multi-component mixtures, designed for intensive care of the face and neck, are capable of solving an incredible number of problems - moisturize, nourish, dry, exfoliate, tone, whiten, rejuvenate. And the ever-growing beauty industry continues to present girls with more and more new options! Special half-masks for the eye area - patches, indelible night masks sleeping packs, fabric magnetic masks, film masks... Finding among them the only one that will be the best for you is quite difficult. In our rating - best masks for the face that the cosmetic industry offers us.

Choosing a face mask

First of all, you need to decide what effect you want to get from the mask and find out whether it is suitable for your skin type. For example, as part of masks for dry and sensitive skin there should be no alcohol, but natural oils, vitamins, polyunsaturated fatty acid welcome! Among the desired ingredients of masks for oily and problem skin - essential oils chamomile and tea tree, allantoin, aloe vera, clay, zinc.

You also need to decide where the mask will be used. Yes, for home use products in jars and tubes are perfect, and it’s much more convenient to take on trips and business trips disposable masks in a sachet: made and threw away. For express care, when you urgently need to get yourself in order before some important event, it is better to choose alginate masks or hydrogel patches.

How to enhance the effectiveness of masks

It would seem that applying a mask - simplest procedure, which even a teenager can cope with eyes closed. But even here you need to know about some subtleties that affect the final result.

Firstly, before using the mask, you should qualitatively cleanse the skin- not only wash your face, but also wipe your face with lotion or tonic; It wouldn't hurt to use a scrub. A perfect option- pre-steam the skin over a decoction of herbs so that the pores open well and absorb the maximum of valuable substances.

Secondly, during the procedure need to lie down. Forget about the habit of putting on a mask and go finish cooking borscht, talk on the phone with a friend or iron your husband’s shirt! Popular blogger, cosmetologist and author of books on skin care Olga Fem explains that the mask is a fairly heavy substance, and if you wear it in vertical position, it will pull the skin down, giving the opposite effect instead of a tightening one.

Thirdly, after thoroughly cleaning your face, do not forget to remove the mask apply cream on the skin of the face.

And don’t overuse masks! Two or three times a week is enough.

And our rating, created taking into account the opinions of professionals and reviews of ordinary users, will help you choose the best face mask according to your skin type.

Face masks: what are they?

Cream masks

They contain many moisturizing, regenerating, toning, nourishing components and are well suited for the care of normal, dry, irritated and dehydrated skin. Cream masks for face also ideal for mature and aging skin, which needs to be especially actively moisturized and nourished, stimulate the restoration and renewal of its cells. But be careful if you have oily or problematic skin: these masks may contain ingredients that clog pores. First of all there are some vegetable oils(For example, Coconut oil, wheat germ oil or cocoa butter) and skin softening additives - lanolin derivatives, fatty alcohols (isopropyl, myristyl, etc.).

Gel masks

Smoothes the skin, makes it soft, relieves irritation and peeling. And the most important thing - gel masks have a very powerful moisturizing effect. Moisturizing gel-based masks(its role can be played by aloe vera gel, polysaccharides seaweed, carbomer gel, etc.) are suitable for skin care of any type. They can be used safely for problem skin, as they do not clog pores.

Clay and mud masks

Clay and mud masks are recommended primarily for oily and problematic facial skin. Clay masks(kaolin, etc.) clean and tighten pores, whiten “blackheads” and acne marks, regulate activity sebaceous glands, have a slight exfoliating effect. Mud masks(usually sea mud is used) also have a good antibacterial and skin toning effect. However, keep in mind that they can dry out the skin, especially if it is already prone to dryness or dehydration.

Film masks

Usually they come with a peeling or lifting effect. Film masks Suitable for skin care of any type. They are especially recommended for thin and sensitive facial skin. Such peeling masks good to use in cases where other exfoliation and deep cleansing procedures are too aggressive for the skin. A few minutes after application, the gel mask turns into a breathable but dense film that helps smooth the skin. After 15-20 minutes, this film is removed, and at the same time dead epidermal cells adhering to it, as well as sebaceous and horny plugs are removed.

Alginate masks

Sometimes they are also called modeling or plasticizing. Alginate masks- These are usually powders based on algae polysaccharides, which are diluted with water or other liquid before use. When frozen, they follow the shape of the face and quickly tone tired skin, tighten the oval of the face, reduce nasolabial folds, swelling and wrinkles. The effect lasts up to several days. As a rule, most alginate masks are intended for professional use in salons: they are quite difficult to apply and remove - this must be done in one motion, very carefully, so as not to spoil the achieved result.

Fabric masks

They can be a good home alternative to alginate ones. The fabric from which such a mask is made is saturated with highly concentrated serums that provide intensive skin care or help cope with certain cosmetic problems (acne, facial swelling, pigmentation, etc.). But if you can apply a clay or other mask and go about your business - with fabric mask You will have to lie on your face for the prescribed 20-30 minutes.

A face mask is a necessary cosmetic product to maintain youth, beauty and freshness of the skin. Thanks to the ability to choose it according to your skin type and in accordance with the necessary needs, you can rid your face of such unpleasant phenomena as excessive dryness or oiliness, enlarged pores, acne, etc.

To figure out which face mask is better than the others, you need to know their types.

by skin type and manufacturing method

To choose the right facial product, you need to study your skin needs and type. Some people need to get rid of excess fat, while others need to make their skin elastic and tightened.

Depending on individual characteristics, these types of cosmetic products can be divided into several categories.

When answering the question of what types of face masks there are, the first criterion for classification will be the method of their manufacture.

Two large groups can be distinguished:

  • produced on an industrial scale
  • homemade.

The first category often includes components of plant origin in the form of extracts, but the second can be face masks made from natural products - bananas, oatmeal, apples, cottage cheese, etc.

Before using any of them, you must thoroughly cleanse your face.

There are many ready-made cosmetic care products that can be purchased in stores. Their compositions contain special moisturizing components.

They can combine several properties: nourish and moisturize at the same time.

Products for dry and flaky skin should moisturize and nourish well, that is, relieve dryness and accompanying symptoms, a feeling of tightness. To prepare them at home, natural products that have the necessary effect are used.

The top healthiest ones are headed by oils, followed by cottage cheese, honey, milk, etc.

Cosmetic products for sensitive facial skin have a very delicate effect. Since it is susceptible to various inflammations, redness and irritation, the product should include ingredients that do not cause allergies and care.

Means, intended for oily facial skin, has a drying and anti-inflammatory action. It can matte.

The main task of a face mask is to normalize the activity of the sebaceous glands and reduce shine.

Before a cosmetic product for combined The skin faces a difficult task - bringing it back to normal, although on the forehead, chin and cheeks it may have different features.

For those who have not been puzzled by the issue of determining skin type, there are useful universal remedies (for example, fruit and berry).

Types of means by action

Different face masks have different effects on the skin. They are selected according to its type, and depending on the desired effect.

The benefit of face masks is that they work purposefully and are able to penetrate into the deep layers of the epidermis.

  1. If you need to moisturize the skin, making it elastic and acquire a fresh color, use moisturizing face masks.
  2. Nutrients will help saturate it with vitamins and nutrients, protect it from frost, and tonic will help tone it up.
  3. Whitening allows you to whiten your face, successfully lightens freckles and age spots, making your skin more perfect. The most effective face masks with a whitening effect contain citrus extracts.
  4. Among representatives The majority of the fair sex wants to prolong the youth and beauty of the skin, so the most popular masks are anti-aging ones. They begin to be used with the appearance of the first facial wrinkles or even for the purpose of their prevention.
  5. Unsurpassed Modeling masks have an effect, the top of these products is led by alginate ones. They tighten the oval of the face and give clarity to the lines.
  6. Cosmetic care products that steam the skin are no less in demand. They can be classified as cleansing. To answer the question why they are needed, it is enough to imagine the pores and the effect of steam on them. These products act in a similar way - they give off heat and open the pores, from which impurities and toxins come out. The top layer of skin cleansed in this way is maximally prepared for further care.

Cleansers come in many varieties. They perform a cleansing function, but act in different ways.

  • There are films that need to be washed off after use.
  • Pasty ones are removed from the face like a cast.

The top cleansing products have always been headed by those made from clay; they were used back in Ancient Greece.

The peculiarity of medicinal face masks is that they should not just produce a temporary effect, but fight problems.

Their most effective variety includes natural anti-inflammatory and caring ingredients and extracts - algae, turmeric, ginger, citrus fruits, tea tree oil, etc. Before using the product, you need to thoroughly cleanse your face.

Classification by consistency and season

If you have decided which product you need based on your skin type or action, then you can choose the consistency. Some people are fans of film masks, while others find it easiest to open the package, take out the finished product and apply it to their face, and then just throw it away.

Types of face masks have different consistencies:

  • creamy, they are applied to the face like a regular cream;
  • films, after application they turn into a film, which then needs to be removed and discarded;
  • gel-like have a gel texture;
  • popular masks in powder form must be diluted with liquid in accordance with the instructions;
  • products with a non-woven base are produced in special bags. They are already ready and are one-piece with slits for eyes and lips;
  • pasty ones are applied with a brush and taken as a cast;
  • waxy ones have a dense stretchy texture.

Cosmetic products can be divided into four large groups depending on the season when they can be used. This division is important for those who live in conditions of fairly abrupt climate change.

It is important to choose a skin care product according to the season; this will ensure complete skin care and satisfaction of its primary needs.

  • Winter remedies mainly nourish and protect, the function of protection against frost and other weather conditions comes to the fore. But it is not recommended to moisturize the epidermis at sub-zero temperatures; it is better to do this intensively in early autumn or spring, as well as in summer.
  • Autumn care products have an advantage over the rest; they are topped by face masks made from vegetables and fruits, the harvest of which falls precisely on this season.
  • In summer, you need masks that are as lightweight and cleansing as possible. During this period, anti-blackhead and mattifying varieties will be popular.

The best face masks are the ones that suit your needs.

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