Beauty Call: face masks

Most fine lines and “crispy bits”, as someone aptly described it to me recently, are caused by dehydration. Not taking off your makeup, drying radiators and hormonal changes mean even the best moisturisers and serums need a little help sometimes.

Overnight moisture masks are a gooey, delicious, cooling and reviving way to soothe and smooth every skin type. Skin repairs itself during the night, so it’s the perfect time for a mask’s ingredients to go to work (although, you’ll be sleeping with a face covered in slime, so use an old pillowcase). Plaster on a thick layer of your chosen mask. In the morning, tissue off the excess or rub it into the skin, depending on the product.

If you have a regular moisturising mask – try Dermalogica Skin Hydrating Masque (€40/ 75ml) or Sanctuary Moisture Boosting Mask (€2.69/15ml) – leaving it on overnight will only increase its benefits. Some rich night creams can also double up as overnight face masks. I like Trilogy Ultra Hydrating Face Cream (€31/75ml) mixed with a few drops of rosehip oil. Any night cream with a gel consistency will be ideal.

The best overnight masks provide instant gratification: crispy bits will be smoothed and skin will plump up and look fresher.

Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask

30.50, 100ml

Avocado and Apricot Kernel Oils instantly hydrate while Japanese Seaweed fights further moisture loss.
Will sort out those tired dehydration lines that you were certain weren't even there last week.

Decleor Hydra Floral Multi Protection Expert Mask

38, 50ml

Packed with botanicals, this product is the closest thing to a moisturising bath for your crispy bits. The mask transforms into a fine oil and soaks in overnight to leave skin super soft.

Superfacialist Rose Intense Moisture Mask

€10.99, 125ml

From the cult Una Brennan range, this mask packs such a seriously a mask so rich and nourishing punch that I’ll forgive its over strong rose fragrance.

Clinique Moisture Surge Overnight Mask

38

Like a drink of water for thirsty skin, this oil-free mask is perfect for all skin types. It won’t leave your skin greasy – just soft and supple.

Aisling loves . . .

Lancome Le Correcteur Pro (

38)

If you’ve got dark circles under your eyes you need this kit in your life. Three shades blend to brighten and conceal and cancel out any unsavoury purple shadows. Available in eight colourways to ensure you get exactly the right match for your skin tone.