Ladies, We've Come a Long Way
In 1874,when Madam Helen Rowley applied under patent 165,955 for the first and, hopefully last, "flexible india-rubber" medical mask, our facial mask choices were severely limited!
The form-fitting rubber contraption was sold by The Toilet Mask Company. Surprisingly, it was not the name that was about to spell its demise but its hefty price of $10.00; a mere fortune in 1874.
Luckily(?), in 1902 Sears, Roebuck swung a deal with the Madam and put the mask in the famous catalog for just $2.00 plus 2 cents for shipping.
Madam Rowley was on the right track but so off base. Today, facial masks are a luxury of the soul and not the wallet. If you haven't indulged lately, get ready to pamper.
How to Use a Facial Mask
Wearing a mask makes you look scary for a reason; so others will leave you alone to enjoy this beauty ritual!
- Taking 30 minutes just once or twice per month can do wonders for you physically and mentally - find the time.
- Set the mood. Music, candles, fresh wash cloths and a soft pillow for your head. In less than 5 minutes you can set the scene for relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Wear a comfortable towel wrap that exposes your upper chest and pull your hair away from your forehead.
- Remove all traces of face and eye make-up with gentle cleaners.
- Apply eye cream in a wide circular, patting motion. Make sure the top and bottom lids are covered and that the cream extends to the inner and out corners.
- Or use eye such as Wei East Intensive Herbal Eye Treatment Pads with Tibetan crysanthemum, raspberry and peppermint to diminish puffiness, lighten dark circles and refresh tired eyes.
- Read directions and apply using your fingers or a brush from forehead to upper chest. Avoid the eye area that you protected with eye cream.
US $13.19
- Our overworked and overexposed hands can benefit for the healing properties in the mask too. Spread a layer over the back of both hands and into the cuticles.
- Now lay back and relax. If you've done it correctly, it will be impossible to do anything else!
- Again follow directions and rinse or wipe away the mask after the designed time. Take the time to remove the mask completely.
- Use a mild toner if you feel excess residue then follow with the appropriate day overnight time moisturizer.
- If you have sensitive areas such as the cheeks, apply the mask to that area last. You can also apply a light amount of moisturizer under the mask or moisten first with water.
- For greater benefits include steam treatment for 5 minutes before you apply the mask. This opens up pores to receive the mask and adds more relaxation to the experience.
