This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Nottingham chapter.

Sometimes, when the weather looks miserable, deadlines are stacking up, and you’re beginning to feel like ‘seasonal depression’ might genuinely have some real prominence, you just need a little self-care. Luckily, Steph has your back – as she outlines five different versions of facemasks and let us know their benefits…

As the nights get longer and the days get colder, self-care is a must to keep your spirits high. What’s a better way to do this than to indulge in a relaxing face mask? With so many masks on the market, it’s challenging to know which to choose. I gathered some information on 5 types of face masks to help you unlock glowing, radiant skin.

1. Exfoliating Masks

Exfoliating masks aim to remove dead skin cells from the surface of your skin, revealing a glowing complexion. These masks tend to use beta hydroxy acids (BHA’s) or alpha hydroxy acids (AHA’s) to unclog your pores and dissolve dead skin cells. To use this mask, leave it on for the recommended time (it’s important to not go over as this may be damaging) and remove with warm water and a cloth.

Benefits:

Removing flaky skin
Fights signs of aging
Reduces hyperpigmentation.

Recommendation:

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

2. Clay Masks

Clay masks are made from various types of clay that absorb the bacteria and oil from your skin. Clay masks are most popular amongst people who have oily or acne-prone skin as they are commonly used to reduce the amount of oil on the skin’s surface. Make sure to moisture after using this mask as they can be extremely drying.

Benefits:

Brightens skin
Reduces acne
Reduces oil

Recommendation:

Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask to Clear Pores

3. Cream Masks

Cream masks are the key to keeping your face hydrated through the cold winter months. This mask is perfect for adding moisture and vitamins back into your skin. The product should be applied to cleansed skin, left on your face for the recommended time, and washed off with warm water.

Benefits:

Reduce the appearance of wrinkles
Minimizes the appearance of pores
Improves skin texture

Recommendation:

Japanfusion Bio-ceramide Moisture Mask

4. Gel Masks

Gel masks have the consistency of jam or jelly and are good for dry, sensitive, and dehydrated skin. Gel masks are suitable for all skin types and particularly for those experiencing sun damage due to their cooling and soothing nature.

Benefits:

Hydrating
Unclogs skin pores
Improves skins tone
Reduces puffiness

Recommendation:

Peter Thomas Roth Cucumber Gel Mask

5. Sheet Masks

Sheet masks are pieces of fabric that are shaped to your face and soaked in serum. The serum is packed with a variety of different vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. These masks are deep cleaning and draw out the impurities in your skin, creating a hydrated and plumped complexation.

Benefits: