It’s officially winter and, chances are, you or someone you know is dealing with winter skin. What’s that mean, exactly? It’s that dry, dehydrated, chapped skin that just cannot seem to hydrate no matter what you do. For Allure editors, we love a good hydrating face mask for this time of year because it instantly gives our skin that plumping hydration it’s craving. In fact, Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Connecticut says that hydrating face masks is a step everyone should add to their skin-care routines.
“Just like we double cleanse with face wash, double hydrating should be considered,” she says. Dr. Gohara adds that doing this will add more moisture to our skin, particularly in cold months, or even in the warmer months — as sun damage can take a toll. She mentions that when shopping for a hydrating face mask, always look for ingredients on labels like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, squalene, or your favorite moisturizing nut-derived oil (we personally love almond). Dr. Gohara recommends layering masks with your favorite hydrating serum and leaving it on for however long the brand suggests — some can even be used as overnight masks.
There are hundreds if not thousands of masks that contain those ingredients in them, and we know the search can feel intense as you try to find the one. Thankfully, we’re here to help. Below we (with the help of some of our favorite dermatologists) rounded up 13 of the best face masks and sleeping masks to quench dry skin.
According to New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, the Eau Thermale Avéne Soothing Radiance Mask is great for those with dry, sensitive skin. “This ultra-gentle mask softens the skin with safflower seed oil along with lipid-rich naturals that help repair the skin barrier,” he says. Dr. Zeichner adds that the thermal spring water in the formula is rich in vitamins that have soothing and calming effects, too.
Cosmedix Rescue Intense Hydrating Balm & Mask Cosmedix Rescue mask is a favorite of board-certified New York City-based dermatologist Hadley King, MD. “Glycerin, shea butter, and panthenol all help to hydrate, support the skin barrier, and lock in moisture,” she says. Dr. King adds that there are also calming ingredients like cica, willowherb, and calendula that soothe the skin.
Dr. King also loves Charlotte Tilbury’s Multi-Miracle Glow because of its creamy texture and skin-nourishing ingredients. “This mask contains the perfect combination of humectants to hydrate, emollients to support the skin barrier, and occlusives to lock in moisture,” Dr. King says. She adds that it contains rosehip oil, an essential fatty acid rich in linoleic acid that our bodies need but can’t produce themselves. Linoleic acid supports and repairs the skin barrier, increasing skin moisture, elasticity, and softness.
