If there’s one thing that’s taken me on a rollercoaster journey over the years, it’s skincare. In the beginning – we’re talking early 20s – a splash of water in the shower and a smidge of moisturiser felt like enough. Heading into my 30s, I knew that wouldn’t cut it anymore. And so began the search for the ultimate skincare solution.
Beauty masks and elixirs can be an enjoyable and rewarding part of our self-care routine. They improve the quality of our skin and allow us to spend some time on ourselves and nurture our body and mental wellbeing. Aside from any appearance aspect, our skin is a part of this vessel that carries us through our lives, and it deserves to be cared for and nourished.
Through much trial and error – and maybe a bit of that overly dramatic “will this be the next miracle formula” energy – I’ve explored the interesting and the wonderful when it comes to masks and elixirs. Over the years, wanting to become less wasteful has also led me not to buy things I don’t need and end up with a bathroom shelf brimming with unused products, ultimately ending up as waste.
Skin therapist Sheridyn Jaques says: “The key is to keep it simple when deciding on your home care regime and not to overdo it. A common issue I see in the clinic is people purchasing active products over the counter, which actually end up doing more harm than good.”
Over the years, I’ve dabbled in every variety of mask – yes, even some bright green avocado mask that made me look like I’d wandered straight off a salad bar. After years of experimenting with everything from DIY concoctions to luxurious store-bought creams, I’ve learned a few things. Firstly, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. What works for one person might not work for another. Secondly, skincare is part science, part ritual, and a dash of that elusive ingredient: hope.
I will say, though, that the more natural the ingredients, the more my skin seems to look healthy, happy and glowing.
The rise of DIY elixirs
There’s a certain allure to whipping up your own skincare at home. It’s fun and affordable, and if you’re into the science and ‘wizardry’ aspect of mixing ingredients, it can even be fascinating.
There’s a world of natural, kitchen-friendly elixirs you can try that won’t break the bank. Honey is suggested to be hydrating; turmeric is said to brighten; green tea is antioxidant-rich. Here are a few masks to try out for yourself:
Green tea mask: Mix one tablespoon each of matcha green tea powder, raw honey and baking soda, then add water to make a paste. Leave this on for 15 minutes, then rinse off with warm water.
Calming aloe mask: Mix one tablespoon of natural aloe vera gel with one tablespoon of raw honey to form a paste. Leave on for 20 to 30 minutes, then rinse off with warm water.
Easy oatmeal mask: Mix quarter of a cup warm water with half a cup of colloidal oatmeal. Leave this on for 15 minutes, then rinse off with warm water.
Make sure to test them out on a small skin patch first to ensure you won’t react. Sheridyn also suggests, “Try to avoid using harsh scrubs on your skin. Yes, some people’s skin can tolerate them, but you are doing more harm than good for the most part. People will often feel short-term relief and think their skin is getting better, but it can worsen the issues, causing dehydration, inflammation and irritation.”
Store-bought goodies
Then there’s the other end of the spectrum. You know, the beautifully packaged masks and serums that seem to call your name from the shelves. Sure, they can be an investment, but you need that extra boost sometimes. Many of these products are formulated with more potent ingredients you wouldn’t necessarily have at home, such as hyaluronic acid and vitamins C and A.
Here are some tried and tested favourites:
Evolve Bio-Retinol Gold Mask: If you want to feel like royalty, this organic mask is for you. It looks like pure gold, smells like a sweet meadow and feels like butter. It also leaves your skin feeling clean, smooth and glowing.
Mukti Vital A Elixir: This organic all-day vitamin A serum is gentle enough for any skin type – even sensitive or during pregnancy. You’ll notice firmer, hydrated and glowing skin, without that unwanted sun sensitivity.
Antipodes Flora Probiotic Skin-Rescue Hyaluronic Mask: This luxuriously soothing probiotic mask harmonises your skin’s delicate flora and ecosystem – a naturally calming choice and great for sensitive skin.
Raaie Yellow Moonbeam Retinal Elixir: This dreamy elixir glides on with a silk-pillowcase feel, and the light scent is evocative of sweet, gentle blooms. It also contains some lovely New Zealand botanicals such as native sea algae, alpine rosehip and harakeke native flaxseed.
Environ Tribotanical Revival Masque: This is Sheridyn’s favourite mask. It’s mildly exfoliating and super-hydrating, and it helps your skin create hyaluronic acid, giving it an incredible glow.
“Where possible, try to avoid following advice and trends from TikTok and Instagram as most of the time it is uneducated advice,” Sheridyn says.
“Just because something works for one person doesn’t mean it will work for another. Also, avoid products that contain sodium sulphate derivatives as these are not in harmony with the skin’s PH and can impair the skin.
“If someone is suffering from a skin concern or condition, don’t be afraid to seek professional advice,” says Sheridyn. “Investing in one or two products from a professional can create a positive change and save you time and money in the long run.”
Rituals matter
Over time, skincare has become more than just a routine – it’s now a ritual for many, including myself. Taking those extra 10 minutes to slather on a mask or to press a calming potion into my skin gently has become a way of unwinding. There’s something very calming about the ritual of it all. It’s like saying, “Hey, you’re important,” even if it’s just to myself.
“Taking care of your skin and setting aside time for self-care is a powerful way to nurture both your body and mind,” says Sheridyn. “When you take care of your skin, you are not only protecting it but also giving yourself a boost of confidence, and that shines from the inside out. Self-care isn’t just a luxury; it’s a chance to pause, reconnect and recharge, helping you manage stress and gain more balance in your daily life.”
Caring for my skin is something I look forward to now – a pocket of calm amid my busy life. And that’s where beauty masks really shine. It’s not just about what they do for your skin; it’s about what they can do for your mindset – a reminder to slow down and breathe.
As with any journey, skincare has its moments. Some things will be a hit, and some might be a miss. Don’t stress if you feel like you haven’t found the right fit – start by getting to know yourself and spending time appreciating the skin you’re in.
But whatever you choose… may your masks be hydrating, your elixirs be brightening, and your skin as happy as you are.
