What do moisturizing masks do to my skin?
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Dr. Ellen Marmur answered:If a mask has active ingredients, such as anti-inflammatories or antioxidants, they might be better absorbed into the skin because of the occlusive barrier of the mask. But that's a big "if," since those ingredients would have to be lipophilic (oil-loving and compatible with skin) and microscopic enough to penetrate pores in the first place. By the same principle of occlusion, we can treat eczema on the body by applying a steroid cream, then putting plastic wrap over it to provide an occlusive barrier so the cream doesn't evaporate or wipe off. This also provides a slight pressure that pushes the medication onto the skin. It's similar to slathering on a rich foot cream and then covering the feet with cotton socks - although, unlike a medicine, the moisturizing effect wears off the minute you wash your skin.
Find out more about this book: Simple Skin Beauty: Every Woman's Guide to a Lifetime of Healthy, Gorgeous...
If a mask has active ingredients, such as anti-inflammatories or antioxidants, they might be better absorbed into the skin because of the occlusive barrier of the mask. But that's a big "if," since those ingredients would have to be lipophilic... More
