The Joy of Mini Masks.

There was a time when I considered the inclusion of a mask as part of a GWP to be something of a disappointment. I would have much rather had a mini face cream or cleanser. These days however a mask sample is greeted with smiles, I've turned my attitude around and think they are great additions to goody bags and if I have the option to choose samples and there's a mask available I'm likely to add one in. To be honest there was a time when I only used a face mask very infrequently. I'm also not on the sheet mask bandwagon. I have some and use them from time to time just because I have them but I'm not fond of the feel of them and don't find them as effective as a proper 'slap on a thick layer and rinse it off' mask. 

These days I try to do a set of three masks once a week (something clarifying, something peel like, and one that gives a deep hydration hit), usually on a Sunday and fit in another deep cleansing mask midweek. All this, plus the fact that I may need to use a targeted mask (calming if I'm irritated, moisturising if I have any particularly dry patches, something with sulphur if there's an erupting zit bubbling under) means that I get through quite a few of them. 

Plenty of samples mean that I hardly ever have to buy a full sized mask and of course it means that I get to try out a whole range of masks at no cost so when I do decide to splash some cash I know I'm going to really like what I have bought. Masks usually come in quite big pots, as I only use them once or twice a week at the most they take some time to finish, minis and samples mean that I get to use fresh, unopened products. I also don't need to make any investments in targeted treatment masks that I will use even more infrequently as I usually can find something in my stash that will address whatever skincare crisis I am having. Finally, these minis are so good for travelling with, not only because are they easy to carry, but also because I find my skin usually needs a deep clean and something calming and hydrating after any type of travel, especially flying.   

Pictured above are some of my current crop of masking samples and minis. There are some of my very favourite ones there (basically any mask by Sisley or Omorovicza, and the REN Glyco Lactic Radiance Renewal Mask). There are also lots of new ones for me to try!