From dark circles to blemishes,the best masks to treat trouble spots on your face

A skincare mask is an indulgence,not only for the time-out it gives us,but also for its complexion benefits. Applying a mask on a weekly basis helps to cleanse pores and remove any debris on the surface of the skin.

There are myriad masks to choose from and they carry out a multitude of tasks:clarifying,brightening,hydrating,soothing,anti-ageing,decongesting … Here are a few of our current favourites and the best way to utilise them.

There are myriad masks to choose from and they carry out a multitude of tasks.

There are myriad masks to choose from and they carry out a multitude of tasks.Getty Images

First,remember to always apply a mask over a cleansed face,preferably after showering as the steam helps open the pores. For gentle exfoliation,The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque ($42) is perfect for oily and acne-prone skin because its main ingredients (salicylic acid,kaolin and charcoal) slough off dead skin cells and speed up the healing process of inflamed pimples.

If glowy,hydrated,bright-looking skin is your jam,skincare specialist Kaye Scott from The Clinic in Sydney recommendsAspect Hydrating Mask ($69). “It’s also great for menopausal and post-menopausal skin,” she says.

A great all-rounder is theYouth to the People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Mask ($81). It boasts four plumping,moisture-boosting ingredients – squalane,hyaluronic acid,betaine and vitamin C. For an overnight boost for tired-looking skin tryFresh Floral Recovery Calming Mask ($41) with squalane to smooth and soften skin.

Our latest obsession is the exfoliating and hydratingTatcha The Clarifying Clay Mask ($116) which switches from green to red after it’s been massaged in so you know when it’s time to rinse it off. Genius.

Sheet masks also have a special place in our hearts and are perfect for travel,not just to lock moisture into the skin but to give fellow passengers a fright. TrySociété Rejuvenating Peptide Mask ($179) to lock in moisture andAceology Anti-Aging Gold Eye Mask ($49) which has peptides and botanicals to target the delicate eye area.

You can also take your regimen up a notch with customised masking,which targets problem areas on skin – for instance dark circles under the eyes,blemish-prone cheeks,an oily T-zone or rosacea – using different masks. Here is one multi-mask prescription we recommend:apply an enzyme mask on an oily T-Zone,a rosehip mask on marionette lines,a pigmentation mask on cheeks,then seal it all with a soothing charcoal jelly mask. Now all you have to do is lie back and relax.

Ask Steph

How do I top up my sunscreen without having to remove my make-up and start from scratch?

Try misting a lightweight,non-greasy SPF 50 over your make-up. We likeUltra Violette Preen Screen SPF 50 Reapplication Mist ($42),which also leaves a subtle glow.

Follow Stephanie Darling on Instagram@mrssdarling. Send questions tostephanie@darlingbeauty.com.au.

Make the most of your health,relationships,fitness and nutrition with our Live Well newsletter.Get it in your inbox every Monday.

Stephanie Darling is Sunday Life's beauty director.

Most Viewed in Lifestyle