What is the function of a facial mask in a treatment?

• A. To cleanse the skin and remove makeup.
• B. To exfoliate the skin rapidly.
• C. To deliver active ingredients, moisturize, and address specific concerns.
• D. To sterilize the skin.

Answer: (C)

Masks are designed to enhance a treatment by delivering active ingredients into the skin, providing moisture, and addressing specific concerns. By sitting on the surface, they create an occlusive layer that helps ingredients penetrate more effectively and locks in hydration, supporting the skin’s barrier. Depending on the formulation, a mask can hydrate dry skin, help control oil and blemishes, brighten dull skin, or soothe sensitivity. This makes masks more than just cleansing or exfoliating steps; they concentrate actives and deliver targeted benefits over the application period, improving the skin’s receptivity to later products. They aren’t meant to sterilize the skin, nor are they primarily a rapid exfoliation or makeup-removal tool.