Alginate mask belongs to professional care products. It moisturizes the skin well and gives a pronounced lifting effect, and also relieves facial tension, smoothes folds and wrinkles.
Many women buy alginate masks (also called plasticizing masks) and make them at home themselves. I will tell and show you how to properly prepare and apply such a mask at home.
- What is an alginate mask
- How does an alginate mask work?
- How to choose an alginate mask
- How often should you make alginate masks?
- How to properly apply an alginate mask
- Applying a mask in 7 stages
What is an alginate mask
Alginate mask is a powder made from seaweed , but, as a rule, such masks also contain other active ingredients:
- Vitamins
- Plant extracts
- Tea tree oil
- Hyaluronic acid
How does an alginate mask work?
Since any alginate mask contains seaweed, all alginate masks have a similar effect.
First of all, they relieve tension in the facial muscles, which helps smooth out folds and wrinkles. They also have a powerful moisturizing and draining effect due to alginic acid, which is present in seaweed. All together, this provides skin hydration and a pronounced lifting effect.
But in addition to seaweed, alginate masks usually contain other active components, and thanks to this, alginate masks can also have a specific effect on the skin, for example:
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anti-rosacea
- Calming
- Anti-aging
Vote
Which alginate mask did you choose?
La Miso
15.38 % ( 2 )
Medical Collagen 3D
23.08 % ( 3 )
Shary alginate mask “Express hydration”
0.00 % ( 0 )
Inoface Alginate mask “Vitamin Modeling”
15.38 % ( 2 )
Anskin alginate mask “Vitamin-C” for dull skin
7.69 % ( 1 )
J:ON Alginate mask “Bright & Improve Modeling” for brightening and improving facial skin
7.69 % ( 1 )
Teana alginate cooling rejuvenating cryomask with spirulina and myoxinol “Magic of the sea depths”
7.69 % ( 1 )
Skinlite alginate mask “Hyaluronic acid”
15.38 % ( 2 )
How to choose an alginate mask
Alginate masks are usually sold either packaged in portioned bags of 25-30 grams or in packages of 200-300 grams or more. Therefore, you can purchase either several different masks suitable for your skin condition and alternate them in your care, or buy one mask in a large package. In this case, it is advisable to choose a mask based on the problem you want to work on.
Oily and problematic skin
For those with oily and problem skin, you can purchase an alginate mask with tea tree oil, which will have an anti-inflammatory effect.
Sensitive skin and skin with rosacea
Those with sensitive skin with rosacea should give preference to an anti-rosacea mask with vitamin C, which will help strengthen blood vessels.
Dry and dehydrated skin
For dry, dehydrated skin or after a trip to the sea, it is better to choose a mask with hyaluronic acid, which will have a pronounced moisturizing effect.
What is it and why is it needed?
In cosmetology, various extracts and extracts from terrestrial plants have long been used: chamomile, aloe, nettle, etc. But brown algae for beauty purposes is a kind of curiosity that began to be actively used quite recently.
The alginate plasticizing (or modeling) mask contains an active component - alginate acid (sodium alginate). This mask is called modeling because after hardening it completely repeats the contours of the face. It is quite easy to remove, and during the drying time it manages to have the following effect on the skin:
- lifting;
- hydration;
- smoothing out minor wrinkles;
- getting rid of pigmentation and acne marks, etc.
In addition to alginate acid, the mask contains other, no less useful substances:
- complex of vitamins;
- proteins;
- minerals.
To achieve a targeted effect (rejuvenation, hydration, etc.), accompanying ingredients can be added to the masks: collagen, ascorbic acid, plant extracts, etc.
How to properly apply an alginate mask
Typically, an alginate mask is applied to the entire face including the neck, lips and area around the eyes. To do this, you will need 25-30 grams of the mask - that is, either the entire package, if the mask is packaged in portions, or you need to weigh the required amount on a scale or take it with a measuring spoon, which is usually included with the mask.
But there are masks that are not recommended for use on the area around the eyes and lips, because they can have a drying or irritating effect on the delicate skin in this area. For example, a mask with tea tree oil. Also, girls with eyelash extensions and people suffering from claustrophobia do not need to apply alginate masks to the area around the eyes.
Preparing to apply the mask
Before applying the alginate mask, it is necessary to thoroughly cleanse the skin using your foam, milk or gel for washing, and it is also advisable, although not necessary, to do peeling for home use to cleanse the skin of dead cells.
After this, you need to wipe your face with tonic and apply an ampoule concentrate for the problem or serum under the alginate mask. For example, for sensitive skin it could be an anti-rosacea ampoule, and for dry, dehydrated skin it could be a serum with hyaluronic acid.
An alginate mask will work as a conductor and promote deeper penetration of the active components of your serum.
Skin type
Such products are ideal for any type of dermis, just decide on the desired effect. However, it should be noted that masks are produced that are designed specifically for sensitive and delicate skin. Their composition is aimed at reducing the risk of allergic reactions. If your skin is prone to “whims,” pay attention to these products.
Applying a mask in 7 stages
To apply the mask you will need a rubber bowl and a spatula.
1. First of all, you need to put the required amount of alginate in a bowl.
2. Then, unless otherwise indicated, dilute the powder with clean water at room temperature in a ratio of 1:3 (1 part mask and 3 parts water) and mix thoroughly with a spatula for 2 minutes.
3. You must put a disposable cap on your head to prevent the composition from getting on your hair.
4. It is recommended to apply the alginate mask while lying down, which is very difficult to do on your own, so ideally, of course, it would be good to train someone at home to apply the alginate mask to you.
But if you are forced to apply the mask yourself, then it is best to do it while standing in front of a large mirror and tilting your head back slightly.
The mask should be applied with quick movements along massage lines from the center of the face to the periphery, leaving only the nostrils open. If you hesitate, the mask will begin to harden in the bowl and you will not be able to apply it.
You may not be able to do it quickly enough the first time, but over time you will learn how to apply such a mask without problems.
The second eye should be covered with a mask last, and it is advisable to do this not far from the sofa on which you are going to lie down.
After 5-7 minutes, when the composition has hardened, you can apply any moisturizing or nourishing cream along the edges of the mask. This will prevent the edges of the mask from drying out, and will make it easier for you to remove it later.
5. The alginate mask is left on the face for 20-25 minutes, during which time it is better to listen to pleasant music and try to relax. However, if you are alone at home, be sure to set a timer on your phone before applying the mask.
6. After 20-25 minutes, first slightly detach the edges of the alginate along the contour, then pick it up by the edges and carefully remove the mask from bottom to top. If the alginate is of high quality, then the mask does not tear, but is quite easily removed in one layer. And the remnants of the mask at the edges can be removed using a cotton pad soaked in tonic.
7. At the end of the procedure, you need to apply your daily face cream to the skin. And if you are planning to go out, then in just a few minutes you can start applying makeup.
THREE IMPORTANT RULES
1. The finer the powder the dry mask is, the higher its quality. If the powder is more like sand, then such a mask will not fit well on the skin and form lumps.
2. A gel alginate mask does not dry out like a powder mask and is washed off with just plain warm water. It is convenient to take it on the road or use it in cases where it is not possible to dilute powder.
3. There are practically no allergies to alginate masks. They contain only one allergen - iodine, extracted from algae. Therefore, if you are allergic, but you are not allergic to iodine, then feel free to use alginate masks - everything will be fine.
Alginate masks are worth and should be used in facial and body skin care. But, of course, it is necessary to understand that the expected result, like any cosmetic product, will be achieved by an alginate mask in coordinated work with other products for cleansing nutrition and moisturizing the skin. Pay attention to the additional use of creams, serums, lotions/tonics, etc.
Contraindications
Even though professional alginate masks prepared by cosmetologists, even those made according to home recipes (based on alginate powder), there are contraindications for their use:
- damage to the skin of the face;
- problems with nasal breathing (sinusitis, nasal congestion, adenoids, polyps, etc.);
- inflammatory processes of the skin.
There are negligible contraindications, so almost every woman (at any age) can try making such a mask in the salon and even at home.
Beneficial features
Such masks have many useful characteristics:
- stop inflammatory processes;
- saturate the dermis with nutrients and normalize its protective properties;
- constrict blood vessels, which leads to the elimination of hyperemia and irritation;
- break down subcutaneous fat, restore the normal volume of fatty tissue - this helps eliminate a double chin and other similar problems;
- normalize skin tone, cope with pigmentation;
- eliminate swelling;
- cleanse the skin of toxic substances;
- normalize the ratio of mineral elements at the cellular level;
- provide narrowing of pores;
- increase the firmness and elasticity of the dermis, cope with wrinkles.
Useful tips for use
In order for the alginate mask to give good results, you need to take into account important recommendations:
- Prepare the dermis for application of the product. To do this, you should use a cleansing gel. Milk is also a great option.
- Apply tonic composition.
- Treat the skin with serum or emulsion. An alginate mask allows you to enhance the effectiveness of these products.
- Perform the procedure in courses that include 10 sessions. To achieve good results, you should apply 1-2 masks per week.
These masks are well tolerated. However, alginate products are not recommended for use if you are allergic to seafood or algae. It is also worth refusing to use the composition for relapses of chronic diseases.
An alginate mask is an effective remedy that significantly improves the condition of the epithelium. With its help you can cope with wrinkles, make your skin more youthful and toned. In this case, the specific composition must be selected taking into account the type of dermis. Many cosmetic brands offer such products. If you wish, you can make an effective mask yourself.
Types and effect of them
Although you can make a mixture for the face yourself, the cosmetic market is replete with ready-made alginate masks. This is the choice available to lovers of natural masks:
- Basic. The basic components of the mask contain nothing but alginate. The use of such products improves turgor, enhances the effect of other cosmetic products used, and makes the skin healthier. It is considered a classic alginate base for other types of masks.
- Collagen. A regular alginate mask also contains a component of youth – collagen. Therefore, with the help of such a mask, you can solve the problem of age-related changes in the skin of the face: it smoothes out deep wrinkles and wrinkles, evens out the contour of the face, and has a lifting effect.
- Chitosan. A mask with chitosan moisturizes the skin well, adds elasticity to it, and promotes cell regeneration. These masks are perfect for those with dry and exhausted skin.
- "Ascorbic acid". This mask, based on algae extract and vitamin C, copes with the following tasks: giving the skin freshness and a healthy tone, nourishing, smoothing the skin surface, reducing the appearance of age-related changes, etc.
- With the addition of plant extracts . The addition of useful natural components in the form of vegetable oils, extracts, extracts after use cleanses the skin, has a “detox” effect, and moisturizes. If among the additional components there are argan oils, olives, etc., then you can get a stunning rejuvenating effect.
All these masks can be used for any skin type. If you need to enhance the effect of your favorite serum or facial fluid, then they must be applied to the face before using the mask for about 5 or 7 minutes.
For rejuvenation, you will need a course of procedures using alginate masks from 1 to 4 times a week, and you need to do them at least 5 (or even many times more). To eliminate other problems, masks can be made less frequently, but there must be consistency and systematic use.
Rating of the best modeling masks
It’s easy to get lost in the large assortment of these products. Ready-made compositions of modeling alginate masks are produced by manufacturers from Europe, Asia and Russia. The Golden Ten are based on the relationship between the effectiveness, cost and safety of masks.
10th place. Ecolab alginate mask “Rejuvenating”
These products are domestically produced. One package contains 20 grams of powder, which is enough for 2-3 uses. The cost of the product is 200 rubles. The composition contains the following components:
- diatoms;
- alginate;
- caffeine;
- ginseng extract;
- hyaluronic acid.
The composition of the modeling mask consists of 99% natural ingredients. Alginate has a pronounced lifting effect on the skin, it narrows enlarged pores and evens out the complexion. Caffeine eliminates blood stagnation in the epidermis and smoothes out shallow wrinkles. Ginseng improves metabolic processes in cells, improves their nutrition, eliminates swelling and irritation. Hyaluronic acid is a “sugar” molecule that improves the production of collagen and elastin, regulates water balance, and increases skin elasticity.
9th place. Anskin Collagen Modeling Mask
Product made in South Korea. The jar contains 400 grams of product. In addition to the powder itself, the package also contains a measuring spoon. The cost is about 500 rubles. The package is enough for about 20 uses. The composition contains the following components:
- diatomite;
- alginate;
- glucose;
- collagen;
- hyaluronic acid;
- licorice root extract.
The modeling mask does not contain harmful substances and alcohol. In addition to the tightening effect, the space product perfectly moisturizes the skin. Glucose helps other components to be better absorbed into the skin and promotes its rapid regeneration. Collagen improves the oval of the face and perfectly nourishes the dermis. Licorice root extract has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and whitening effects.
8th place. Medical Collagene 3D Express Lifting
This alginate modeling mask is made in Russia. Suitable for use at any age. The weight of the can is 400 grams. You will have to pay about 800 rubles for it. Products are made from:
- white clay;
- sodium alginate;
- ginseng extract.
White clay narrows enlarged pores, whitens the skin, and is an excellent absorbent. Alginate forms a clear oval of the face and evens out its tone. Ginseng extract is a powerful antioxidant, regulates the water balance of the dermis, improves collagen production, relieves swelling of the tissue, and rejuvenates the skin.
7th place. Aravia Amyno-Lifting Mask with argireline
Another modeling mask made in Russia. It comes in a jar that weighs 550 ml. The mask is enough for 20-25 uses. The cost varies between 850-1000 rubles. It is intended for mature and dry skin. Consists of the following substances:
- diatoms;
- alginic acids;
- argireline;
- green tea.
Argireline is a safe peptide that has Botox properties. Able to cope with sagging skin and eliminate expression wrinkles. Diatoms improve blood circulation in the dermis and lymph outflow. Alginate provides an additional lifting effect. Green tea will rid the skin of toxic substances, eliminate free radicals, and moisturize the deep layers of the epidermis.
6th place. Algomask Matrixyl Hyal
This modeling alginate mask was developed by French cosmetologists. It is sold in the form of individual bags of 25 grams or jars weighing 200 grams. The first ones are bought at a price of 170-200 rubles, for the second ones you have to pay 850-900. The active substances here are as follows:
- diatomaceous earth;
- alginate;
- sodium hyaluronate;
- mannitol;
- Matrixyl 3000.
The first two components are responsible for the lifting effect, which will tighten the oval of the face and eliminate cosmetic defects (inflammation of the dermis and redness). Sodium hyaluronate is finely dispersed molecules of hyaluronic acid. Due to their microscopic size, they are able to overcome the protective skin barrier and penetrate into the deep layers of the epidermis. The molecules will moisturize the skin, improve metabolic processes and nourish cells.
Mannitol enhances the effect of “hyaluronic acid” and relieves inflammation. Matrixyl 3000 (aka Matrixyl) is designed to combat age-related skin changes. The natural peptide is used as an enriching agent that enhances the skin renewal process.
5th place. Eva Esthetic based on seaweed
This alginate face mask is made in Russia. Sold in a container that looks like a glass. Weight – 20 grams. The price is 200-250 rubles. The ingredients listed on the label are as follows:
- diatoms;
- alginate (extracted from kelp);
- blackcurrant squeeze;
- sodium ascorbate;
- magnesium oxide;
- silica.
This modeling mask is good because it has many useful substances that perfectly cleanse the skin. Sodium ascorbate is a natural antioxidant that prevents pigmentation of the epidermis and protects it from sunlight. Magnesium oxide reflects muscles, binds and cleanses the skin.
Silicon dioxide is an abrasive substance that eliminates oily dermis. Black currant extract relieves inflammation, eliminates skin unevenness, saturates it with useful elements, including vitamin C. Alginate and diatomaceous earth work on facial lines, whiten the skin and tighten pores.
4th place. Skinlite Hyaluronic Acid Modeling Mask
Product made in South Korea. On sale there are packages of 20, 400, 1000 grams. The price ranges from 200 – 1200 rubles. The mask is designed for mature or problematic skin. Its composition is impressive:
- glycerin and panthenol;
- sodium alginate;
- plant extracts (sage leaves, lavender flowers, rosemary, chamomile flowers, lemongrass, ice mushroom, acerola and Roman chamomile);
- sodium hyaluronate;
- retinyl palmitate (vitamin A);
- riboflavin (vitamin B2);
- niacin (vitamin B3);
- pantothenic acid (vitamin B5);
- carnitine HCI (vitamin B11);
- biotin (vitamin H);
- ascorbic acid (vitamin C);
- tocopherol (vitamin E);
- folic acid.
The mask has excellent cleansing properties, removes toxic and harmful substances, whitens the skin and protects against ultraviolet rays. The vitamin complex perfectly nourishes the dermis; beneficial substances penetrate into the deep layers of the skin. In addition, the epidermis will receive strong hydration and will be helped to retain water. The mask will correct the oval shape and remove facial wrinkles.
3rd place. Lindsay Gold Modeling Mask
Another product made in South Korea. The mask is sold in a 28 gram package, which costs about 180 rubles. The product is unusual in that it contains colloidal gold, which has amazing properties. In addition to this, the mask contains:
- diatomite;
- alginate;
- plant extracts (centella asiatica, aloe, mint, purslane).
Gold enhances the regeneration of the epidermis, improves metabolic processes, removes toxins, and rejuvenates. Alginate provides a lifting effect. Centella activates its own production of collagen and elastin, removes swelling, and prevents moisture loss. Aloe moisturizes and heals the skin, reduces any irritation, and saturates the skin with moisture. Mint gives a pleasant feeling of freshness and coolness, eliminates harmful substances. Purslane is an antioxidant and will make your skin young and beautiful.
2nd place. Teana alginate mask “Metamorphose”
The cosmetics are produced in Russia. It is sold in 60 gram packages. Inside it there are three bags of 20 grams each. You need to pay 250-300 rubles for the product. The manufacturer indicated the following composition of the mask:
- diatomaceous earth;
- alginate;
- hibiscus extract;
- magnesium oxide.
Hibiscus extract has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and rejuvenating properties. It successfully fights acne and strengthens vascular walls. Magnesium oxide perfectly cleanses the epidermis and absorbs toxins. Alginate tightens the skin, evening out the complexion.
1 place. Beauty Style lifting mask with thermal mud and collagen
Products are manufactured in the USA. She is loved by many cosmetologists and has earned many rave reviews. Available in packages of 30 and 1000 grams. The price for such products is 250-300 rubles and 1200-1500. The active components in the mask are as follows:
- alginates;
- diatomaceous ooze;
- collagen hydrolyzate;
- thermal mud.
The mask rejuvenates the epidermis, tightening its upper layers. Mud improves skin blood circulation, eliminating stagnation in tissues. Alginates and diatomaceous silt cleans and tones well. Collagen gives the skin express hydration and nutrition.
Recommendations from experts
Cosmetologists advise customers to adhere to certain rules when using alginate masks. Eg:
- When opening the package, use the powder within a few weeks, otherwise it will deteriorate;
- Before use, clean the skin with peeling;
- diluted powder hardens quickly, so it should be applied to the face as soon as possible;
- the product is spread in a thick layer on the skin, you can apply it to the eyes;
- do not keep the mask on for longer than 30 minutes;
- remove the frozen gel with sharp jerks;
- The maximum effect of the mask will appear on the face if you use the product twice a week for two months.
Be sure to follow the instructions on the package, choosing the product according to your age.
Alginate modeling masks are an alternative to plastic surgery. The effect of use will appear after the first procedure, but it is recommended to take a course of 2 months. It is worth choosing a product that will help solve existing cosmetic problems.