Hello guys! As I type this post I am sitting in front of the fire with a cup of my favorite Chinese Flower tea and my face covered in mud, from a jar (but originally from Hungary), that I paid for. . . because free, local dirt would never do. . .

To be honest, I really enjoy using face masks, even if the concept is a little ridiculous. I’ve tried quite a few for various skin concerns over the years and decided to give you a run down of some current favorites.

First off is the one I’m using right now, Omorovicza’s Deep Cleansing Mask. As the name suggests, this mask is meant to clarify skin and decongest pores. Omorovicza also says it will leave skin “firmer, more supple and younger-looking as Hydro Mineral Transference delivers minerals deep into the skin.” I’m not so sure any mask is able to deliver minerals deep into the skin, or that the process would be particularly beneficial, however, this mask does produce some worthwhile results.

As you can see, it looks like wet clay, which is hardly unique in the world of face masks. Like many mud or charcoal-based masks, this one dries after you apply it, drawing oils and “bad” dirt (you know, that dodgy, run-of-the-mill, local sort–unless you are a resident of Hungary–that you didn’t pay for) to the surface of your skin. Once dry, you wash it off. Most masks are best removed using a washcloth and warm water.

This mask is best used at least a few days prior to any sort of big event because it can break you out before improving the situation. I’ve been using it about once every week or two, for the past few months, and have had only minimal reactions of this sort, but as everyone’s skin is unique, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Weird as it sounds, this mask does seem to brighten my skin and have a moisturizing effect, which is why I prefer it over some of the charcoal clearing masks (although some of those are really good as well).

Next up is my not so attractive Mario Badescu Drying Cream. Despite the name, this one is actually a mask, although I would use it selectively for problem areas and not over your entire face.

It has a distinct sulfur smell, which is less than pleasant, but tolerable since this stuff actually works. I usually leave it on overnight and in the morning any spots are much improved. Another plus: this mask is much less expensive than the Omorovicza and, if spots are your main concern, it would certainly be my top recommendation.

Now backing up a bit, I have combination skin that decided it would rather wait until after my teenage years to periodically break out. It’s also dry, especially in the winter, which is why I like this next mask.

Glamglow’s Thirstymud is the best mask I’ve used so far for lasting hydration. It also smells amazing. The scent is a bit like honey and some sort of spice (really specific description, I know)–basically just really nice. Another benefit is that you don’t have to remove this one, at least not right away. I often use it overnight and wake up to skin that’s softer and more hydrated. If I had to choose just one mask to use this winter, this would be it.

Now, having rambled somewhat longer than I’d intended, I’ll bring this post to a close, remove the mask, grab another cup of tea, and get in some more work before bed. Goodnight, guys, and I’ll see you tomorrow for the 8th day of Blogmas!

-Cate