Pretty Easy
There's something about holiday parties. You don't just want to look your best, you want to look the best you ever have. You want to be that face at the party.
A stand-out glow calls for a customized multi-masking recipe. Using problem-solving treatments where needed on different areas of your face can lead to spectacular results. "Everyone has different skin concerns in different areas of their face and it's important to treat each one accordingly," says New York City-based licensed medical esthetician Jordana Mattioli. "During professional facial treatments, I'll use 2 to 4 different masks at the same time. Why not do that at home, too?" Another bonus: multi-masking is also a big time saver. You can get party-ready and dash out the door in no time. Try this 10-minute glow getting recipe for your next big night out.
Pre-mask prep
Before multi-masking, wash your face with a cleanser suitable for your skin type. "This is optional, but if you use a cleansing brush, like the Sonic System Purifying Cleansing Brush, you can really deep clean your pores and massage your face, which will help the masks sink more efficiently and boost your natural glow," suggests Jordana.
Mask 1: The exfoliator
Apply Turnaround Revitalizing Instant Facial to your t-zone (forehead, nose, and chin), which tends to have more clogged pores. "While this mask is on, your skin is being treated with two effective exfoliants: salicylic acid and acetyl glucosamine, which clear away dead surface skin cells," says Jordana. Gentle exfoliation helps to promote faster cell turnover to re-texturize skin and reveal a brighter, more radiant complexion.
Mask 2: The brightener
Spread Even Better Brightening Moisture Mask all the way from the tops of your cheekbones down to your jawline. (Between the two masks, your entire face should be covered now.) "This mask has antioxidants and anti-irritant plant extracts such as chamomile, licorice, birch bark, barley, cucumber and apple that help soothe and restore luminosity," says Jordana. Get ready for skin to be extremely moisturized for the night ahead.
The pro rinse-off
After about five minutes, tissue off the moisturizing mask on your cheeks and jaw. Then splash a little water on your t-zone to rinse off the exfoliating mask. "You'll notice the mask has a very fine grain texture, which helps to get off any last bits of dead skin," says Jordana. Gently massage those grains into the skin for an extra minute. While you're rubbing and rinsing, massage your face with your fingertips to improve blood flow, which can impart added radiance. Start by moving hands in the opposite direction of wrinkle lines or problem areas, then use circular motions on the fleshy parts of your face, like your cheeks. If you've got extra time, try this whole-face workout for a perfectly-toned face. And don't forget to use a clean, soft towel to pat dry your face—no rubbing, which can cause unwanted redness.
Pre-makeup prep
Make your amazing skin stand out even more with a radiance-boosting moisturizer like Turnaround Daytime Revitalizing Moisturizer. With skin this glowy, you may be tempted to forgo foundation entirely, but if you are, Jordana suggests using a thin layer of Superprimer Universal Face Primer, an oil-free option, for a super smooth makeup application. Both approaches will result in that best-skin-ever look you want for the holidays.
Now glow and get 'em.
Photos: Christine Hahn | Words: Kristen Bateman