We all strive for spotless, supple skin with a hint of dewiness, right? Keeping your complexion in check is a balancing act at the best of times, but soaring summer temperatures can tip it over the edge, triggering unsightly oil slicks and makeup meltdowns. A common misconception is that skin produces more sebum in the summer, when in fact, the oil in your pores simply melts and acquires more of a fluid consistency. Before you start to strategize about how to micro-manage your t-zone, try curbing stubborn sheen by incorporating one of these deep-cleansing, cooling face masks into your skincare regime. Blotting paper, be gone.
Liz Earle Deep Cleansing Mask
When shiny patches start cropping up, nip them in the bud with this ten-minute, detoxifying mask. The clay draws out excess oil and a dose of manuka honey helps to clear and soothe skin. It’s seriously cool on contact and leaves your face feeling toned but not at all tight. As far as we’re concerned, it’s a one-stop flash facial.
Dr. Sebagh Anti-Pollution Purifying Mask
As well as blitzing blemishes and congested patches of skin, this super-charged mask (which smells reassuringly medicinal) actually regulates oil production by fending off free radicals, which, if left to their own devices, damage cell membranes and increase oiliness. Saturate skin for 5-10 minutes before splashing off, and say hello to shine-proof skin—even on the hottest days.
Perricone Chloro Plasma
This deep-reaching, gel-to-clay formula contains chlorophyll (yup, as in the green pigment found in plants). As well as evening out tone and smoothing over wrinkles, in ten minutes, these plant-derived nutrients purge skin of pesky pore-clogging culprits; so instead of greasiness you’re left with a subtle glow. This product is simply brilliant as an instant mattifying treatment.
Glamglow Supermud Clearing Treatment
You know those excruciating extractions your facialist performs to rid your complexion of blocked pores and blackheads? Enter the pain-free equivalent. This cult mask is seriously penetrative and contains a patented carbon ingredient, which physically draws out sebum (it can hold up to 500 times its volume in toxins). You can leave it on for up to twenty minutes, but it’s so potent that we suggest adopting a zonal approach and only targeting oily areas (try using a foundation brush to apply).
Oskia Renaissance Mask
This salon-worthy treatment “resets” skin and instantly pares back shine. It contains passion fruit and papaya enzymes, which slough away dead skin cells, and probiotics to fight bacteria in the dermis. Set your skin up for the week and make this buttery balm a Sunday evening ritual. Rinse after 15 minutes with warm water and a muslin cloth.
