FIND A FACE MASK THAT WORKS FOR YOU
let’s face it, masks are part of our future for the foreseeable. As they should be. But are you a ‘grab a disposable one and let’s go’ kind of girl, or looking for something slightly more intentional? Here’s pretty much all the questions you’ve got about masks, answered… Is there a mask that won’t make me combust in a heatwave?
To avoid a sticky face (not chic), opt for breathable, light fabrics like cotton and some polyester blends. If you find you’re still struggling, try one from a sports brand – the likes of Adidas and Reebok have designed masks built for exercise, so they’re made from moisture-wicking materials. What about silk face masks. Would they work?
In a word, yes. Not only are they largely more breathable than their cotton or linen counterparts, they’re also much kinder to your skin, especially if you find you’re suffering from irritation or congestion. Silk is naturally hypoallergenic, adjusts to your body temperature and doesn’t absorb moisture. For one of the best (machine washable) silk masks on the market, look to Slip – their version with adjustable straps comes in at £39. Going matchy-matchy…. naff or nice?
When Lizzo’s doing it, you know you can’t go wrong. Everyone from Emilia Wickstead to O Pioneers has made masks to match dresses. And Harley Viera-newton’s brand HVN has even designed styles to match swimwear. Bringing new meaning to the term two-piece. My make-up just melts off under my mask… help!
It’s time to invest in a great setting spray. Luckily, Charlotte Tilbury has just launched her first, which as you’d expect is truly brilliant. Or try the Hourglass version – Daisy Edgar-jones loves it. Talk to me about the whole scarf as a face mask thing…
Could Sienna Miller do for face masks what she did for coin belts in the early noughties? It’s certainly true that she and many of her fellow A-listers have been spotted with silk scarves tied around their faces. The pros are they’re more comfortable than the closer-fitting coverings and chances are you already own one. But official medical advice warns they’re not as effective as a bona-fide mask. Is there a magic cure for ‘maskne’?
So many new words have entered our lexicon as a result of coronavirus, including a troubling new beauty concern: maskne. Dr Anjali Mahato, consultant dermatologist, recommends sticking to fragrance-free cleansers and ‘avoid wearing heavy make-up underneath your mask’. Are designer face masks on the market ?
Virgil Abloh’s already made the $105 Off-white mask one of this year’s most-coveted accessories (Angelina Jolie’s been seen sporting it). But our tip if you want a luxe style is The Vampire’s Wife, whose £35 coverings are giving back to charity. Now that’s chic.