Face masks and exfoliators
FACE MASKS AND EXFOLIATORS
WHY THEY MATTER AND HOW TO USE THEM
Face masks and exfoliators are among the oldest cosmetic products in history. Both women and men enjoyed using them in ancient Egypt, China and Ayurvedic India. Understanding the effects of individual ingredients, together with technological advances, has brought these beauty treatments up to a professional standard that you can enjoy in the comfort of your own home.
THE HISTORY OF FACE MASKS
From crocodile dung to paraffin wax
Egyptian queen Cleopatra was one of the best-known beauty pioneers and experimenters of the ancient world. Throughout her life, she sought to maintain her youthful appearance, which she used as her main asset in political and social life. Face masks made from crocodile dung, egg whites, mud or clay were an important part of her beauty rituals, cleansing pores, renewing skin cells and stopping ageing.
Yang Guifei, the wife of a Chinese emperor of the Tang dynasty, is considered one of the most beautiful women of ancient China. She cared for her appearance with a mask made from pearls, white jade, ginseng and lotus root. The ingredients were applied as a paste over the entire face. The mask brightened the skin and protected it against dark pigmentation spots, wrinkles and other signs of ageing.
Traditional Indian medicine, known as Ayurveda, focused on plant-based ingredients such as turmeric, coconut oil and herbal extracts. Natural ingredients are known for their gentle yet effective care, which is why they remain highly sought after.
The concept of peel-off masks originated during the Roman Empire, when paraffin masks were used as part of holistic medicine. They were applied to the skin over gauze, onto which warm wax was poured and then peeled off. These masks cleansed pores, reduced wrinkles and moisturised the skin.
European trends
The fashion for face masks reached Europe in the 17th century. Queen Elizabeth I is known to have used face masks made from egg whites and lemon juice. Marie Antoinette of France, meanwhile, preferred milk. Everyday masks were made from coconuts and coconut oil. The fashion for pale, radiant skin led to mercury and lead being added too. These whitening masks continued to be made until their toxic effects were discovered.
Face masks became commercial products in the 19th century, and innovation has continued ever since. For example, the first half of the 20th century saw extensive experimentation with ingredients such as rose water, butter and beef, which helped reduce swelling and bruising. In the 1930s, Helena Rubinstein, the famous founder of a beauty empire, recommended wearing meat masks overnight for their rejuvenating and soothing effects. Colourful peel-off masks were fashionable in the sixties. In the seventies, natural ingredients gained ground in skincare. Ingredients rich in glycolic and lactic acids, which smoothed the skin's texture, were popular in the 1990s.
Knowledge and understanding of the effects of individual ingredients, combined with modern technology, are changing how masks are developed and produced. The cosmetics industry has made them part of modern treatments tailored to individual skin needs.
FOR BEAUTIFUL, HEALTHY, YOUTHFUL-LOOKING SKIN
Mask or exfoliator?
Face masks and exfoliators are an excellent addition to any skincare routine. Their purpose is to cleanse the skin, boost circulation, support regeneration and supply essential nutrients. With regular use, the result is healthy, radiant, youthful-looking skin.
Unlike masks, exfoliators remove the outer layer of skin to create a smoother texture. They help cleanse pores, smooth fine lines and, depending on their ingredients, can even out pigmentation. Masks provide intensive hydration, absorb excess sebum and offer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory or anti-acne care.
The biggest difference between masks and exfoliators is how long they are left on. Exfoliation is a quick treatment. The acids in exfoliators break down the bonds between dead skin cells. Masks need more time, increasing the action of the active ingredients as they penetrate deep into the skin. Exfoliators put extra strain on the skin and increase its sensitivity to the sun. They should therefore be used sparingly, and afterwards the skin should be allowed to rest, away from direct UV exposure.
When choosing masks and exfoliators, prioritise quality and gentle, natural care without unnecessary chemicals. Your choice of treatment and its effects should always suit your skin type and condition. If you are unsure, seek advice from a professional.
Enjoy salon care in the comfort of your own home
Dulcia natural has put together some inspiring options for you – natural, highly effective masks and exfoliators that provide deep care and help renew your skin. Their effects are immediate and visible. What's more, you can enjoy these professional treatments in the comfort of your own home.
Hydrate, smooth and nourish
Hydrating mask with ectoin and coenzyme Q10
With its rich, creamy consistency and captivating herbal-floral scent, this mask provides intensive hydration and restores elasticity. It leaves the skin feeling soft, smooth and moisturised, with a pleasant fragrance. The mask supports skin cell regeneration and reduces fine lines and wrinkles.
Find out more: Long-lasting hydrating mask
For a younger, radiant appearance
Rejuvenating mask with glycolic and hyaluronic acids
This highly intensive mask energises, firms and renews the skin. It reduces and softens wrinkles, visibly renewing and revitalising the complexion. Daisy extract helps promote an even skin tone. Glycolic and hyaluronic acids give the skin elasticity and a plump, hydrated appearance. Powerful antioxidants eliminate toxins and stimulate circulation.
Cleanse and tackle acne and inflammation
Pore-tightening mask – cleansing complex
This mud mask offers powerful cleansing while soothing the skin. It has a beautiful scent. A high proportion of plant extracts and cleansing ingredients helps reduce acne, absorb excess sebum in the pores and regulate sebaceous gland function. Active ingredients from black cumin, magnolia, manuka and chaulmoogra have outstanding antimicrobial properties and minimise skin inflammation.
Find out more: Pore-tightening mask
Relieve irritation and support your skin's immunity
Soothing nourishing mask with probiotics
This gentle, creamy mask contains a complex of nourishing ingredients and microbial cultures to balance the skin's microflora. It improves the skin's immunity, supports regeneration, reduces redness and itching, and eases sensitivity. Its velvety texture, hydrating and repairing ingredients leave the skin feeling soft, smooth, calm, supple and comfortable.
Find out more: Soothing and nourishing mask
Thoroughly cleansed, revitalised skin
Dual-action deep exfoliator
Glycolic acid combined with jojoba beads delivers visible, immediate results. The active ingredients deeply cleanse pores, removing excess sebum and dead skin cells. They improve hydration and firmness. The exfoliator evens out pigmentation, brightens the skin and balances its tone. It reduces fine lines and wrinkles and minimises pore size. A carefully blended mix of essential oils refreshes and disinfects.
Find out more: Chemical peel with glycolic acid
The gentlest way to cleanse and revitalise
Gentle enzyme exfoliator
This exfoliator contains enzymes extracted from tropical fruit. They dissolve dead skin, sebum and other impurities. Natural enzymes have an anti-inflammatory effect, hydrating, brightening and thoroughly cleansing the skin. They work gently, without abrasion. The exfoliator contains soothing ingredients and probiotics. Its gentle texture is suitable even for very sensitive, irritated and inflamed skin.
Find out more: Gentle enzyme exfoliator
Choose a mask or exfoliator to suit your skin type and its current needs. Follow the enclosed instructions when applying the product. After applying a mask, try to relax and rest as much as possible. And remember to care for your skin regularly – you can turn it into an enjoyable ritual at home.