On when to apply a face mask...

Q: My skin has definitely improved since splashing out on various Elemis, Decleor and Gatineau products... but I am hoping that you can give me some advice regarding what is probably a very daft question. If I use a mask, should I be applying a toner BEFORE or AFTER???

Alison: This is a really good question and one I've never actually had in my 15 years here! You definitely get the star award for best question that a lot of people may think has an obvious answer, but in actual fact most people do this wrong.

A mask must be applied to thoroughly clean skin. So it should be at least cleansed and toned, if not cleansed, toned, exfoliated and toned again as well! If it's a leave-on mask, such as Decleor Hydra Floral or Gatineau Melatogenine that you can leave on through the night, then you can actually go to bed in it.

If you don't want to do this and you'd prefer to continue with your night-time treatments after about 15 minutes of the mask sinking in, then you should wipe off the excess with toner. If there is a lot of mask to remove, such as with a clay mask, you should then take it off with either warm, wet cotton wool or a warm, damp cloth. Then follow with toner and your night time treatments.

Comments

[eric van heusen]

hello i must say you are a great advertisment for the products you show on your programme, in my opinion you have the most beautiful skin, you must eat all the right food etc,if you have any other secrets , please do let us know