Face masks are all the rage now, especially in many countries in Asia where it is not uncommon to find it in most households. If you think putting on scary looking face masks or slathering mud masks on your face is odd, then I bet you have not heard of rubber face masks.
Rubber face masks, also known as modeling face masks, have actually been around for quite some time but were only used by estheticians in professional spas. However, recently, the Korean beauty industry has reintroduced rubber face masks by making them more consumer-friendly and convenient. You no longer need to book an appointment at the spa and can instead apply this mask in the comfort of your home.
Why Rubber?
Unlike the name, these masks actually do not contain rubber and contain mainly algin or sodium alginate, derived from brown seaweed such as kelp. Alginate acts as a coagulant giving the mask its distinct thick and jelly-like consistency. Rubber face masks involve mixing a powder with a serum-like activating mixture or sometimes just water depending on the product.
What About Latex Allergies?
For those with latex allergies, it may be welcome to know that rubber face masks are not typically made of latex. However, you should check the manufacturer labeling or call the company if you have a latex allergy to be certain before using a rubber mask.
What’s So Special about Rubber Face Masks?
Rubber face masks conform to the structures of your face. Unlike mud masks, they are easy to peel off in one piece with no tugging involved, making rubber face masks good for those who have sensitive skin. The masks are marketed to form a barrier, which helps with reducing evaporation of water from the skin and helps to improve absorption of nutrients into the skin. Beneficial ingredients are added to the masks, giving them additional properties and the ability to target specific skin troubles.
Rubber face masks are indeed cool and if you ever have the chance, give one a try! As awesome as rubber face masks sound, I do have to mention that as of now there are no published research studies proving the true skin benefits of rubber face masks.
For more information on the different types of masks, click on one of the article links below:
