Masking the truth . . . Phyl Clarke on the benefits of using face masks
"There are certain things the man in your life must never see," my best friend said to me when I was getting married. These included the price tag on that new dress (just let him see you in it); leg shaving (they don't like to think about it); and a head full of curlers, with or without a scarf (remember Hilda Ogden?).
However, these romance-killers all pale into insignificance compared to the fright you will give him if he happens to catch you with a face mask on. So choose your time carefully, and when you do, your skin will thank you. Masks can work wonders and can mean the difference between good and great skin.
How often you use one depends on your skin, but generally once a week is a good average. With regular attention, a new, improved version of your face will greet you in the morning. Dry to normal skins usually favour a nourishing mask. For oilier skin, use a mask with a clay base. Peel-off masks are usually suited to all skin types.
I have a selection at the moment that includes a Dead Sea peel-off mask which comes in a non-flattering shade of Hulk green, so you run the risk of the milkman calling and being greeted by an extra from Night of the Living Dead. The result is obviously worth it, because no one in their right mind would buy it otherwise. It's available freepost from the Seaspa at Kelly's Hotel in Rosslare (053-9132626)and costs €13.50. A much less lurid option is the Rescue mask from Eve Lom, the doyenne of skincare. There is a faint medicinal air to the products in the Lom range, which I find strangely comforting. This is a lovely mask, and leaves the skin glowing. It costs €39, and is available from Harvey Nichols, Dundrum Town Centre, Dublin 14.
If you are not a fan of peeling off or removing a mask once it has done its work, try the Clarins Thirst Quenching mask. Just apply as normal and massage in any product remaining at the end. This one costs €34.50 from Clarins outlets. Sensitive souls should give Dr Hauschka's Rejuvenating mask a go - €30 at selected health shops.
For an overnighter, the Dermalogica range has a power-packed multivitamin recovery mask that comes well recommended, but of course you would have to use that one while on retreat. It costs €38.50 from Therapie, Molesworth Street, Dublin 2.
Well, I must have followed my friend's advice all those years ago, because while you are possibly flipping a coin to see who will go to the supermarket, I have been whisked away to Venice for a romantic interlude, and here they favour a very different kind of mask.
• pclarke@irish-times.ie