Identify your skin type before trying a face mask.This will help you in selecting the right face mask to address your specific problems and optimally benefit your skin. If your skin is not the type that needs a hydrating face mask, there are many other masks for you to choose from. And don’t restrict your face mask to the face alone: Remember that your neck is part of your face. And your shoulders and arms take a beating as well.

Always apply a face mask to clean skin to maximize its effect. Wash your face very thoroughly with either soap or a facial scrub to remove all the dirt, excess oils and grime. Using hot water will help to open clogged pores. Pat your face dry with a clean, soft towel.

Select a few of the following ingredients that blend well together to create your mask: honey, dry oats, yogurt and milk. Hydrating face masks moisturize dry skin and peel away dead skin cells. These ingredients can be blended in a matter of minutes and are easily applied to the face to form a mask.

Select a mixing bowl (such as a stainless steel bowl) that you do not mind getting dirty and add small portions of each ingredient. Gently stir them together. Once you have blended them well, check to make sure the consistency of the mixture is not too watery. When you lift a spoonful, it should be somewhat viscous and sticky. When you drop it back into the mixture, it should mound slightly, settling on the surface briefly before sinking and disappearing into the rest of the mixture. If it is too watery, add more dry ingredients.

Try the face-mask mixture on a small area of skin on the back of your hand before applying it to the sensitive skin of your face and neck. Remove the mask from your hand after a few moments. If you have a lot of redness or a small outbreak, or your skin is reacting oddly to the mixture, do not apply it anywhere else.

If the face mask does not irritate your skin, proceed to apply it to your face and neck (you may also apply it to your upper arms or shoulders). Use a clean hand or spoon to apply the mixture evenly across the skin. Then lie down and remain still (you may enjoy the relaxation as much as the results of the mask). Talking, laughing or moving your face will cause the mask to move around on your skin and prevent the maximum drawing out of toxins. Leave the mask on for at least 10 minutes, untill it begins to set up. If it feels dry and hardened when you touch it with your fingertips, it is time to remove it.

Go to either the kitchen or bathroom sink to remove the mask (it is a bit messy). Turn on the water and let it reach a moderately hot temperature. Dampen a washcloth and use it to remove the mask from your face. Rinse it out after each swipe, and continue this process until the mask has been completely removed. Gently pat your face dry. Enjoy the soft, hydrated skin that you now have.