People often inquire if I have regular facials, but the true secret to my glow lies in these face masks.

      We all understand that an ideal skincare regimen includes some of the finest cleansers, serums, and moisturizers available. That's why, as beauty editors, we diligently test these products to distinguish the superior options from the inferior ones. However, there is one skincare item that often gets overlooked, and that's the face mask. Face masks are frequently an afterthought in many people's skincare routines, overshadowed by more essential daily products. I can see the reasoning behind this; why complicate your routine with an additional step? Nevertheless, some of the best face masks can yield remarkable results, especially if your skin is feeling dry, congested, or dull. When I find myself in need of a facial but am short on time (or unwilling to spend too much), I always turn to a face mask to quickly provide a potent blend of ingredients to my skin. Think of these products as advanced skincare treatments that can be enjoyed in the comfort of your own home. I've tested countless face masks over the years, and below are my top selections for addressing various skincare issues.

      **The Best Face Masks, Tried & Tested**

      - **Best sheet mask:** 111SKIN Cryo De-Puffing Energy Mask, £95

      - **Best clarifying face mask:** Caudalie Instant Detox Mask, £26

      - **Best hydrating face mask:** Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask, £49

      - **Best exfoliating face mask:** Beauty of Joseon Ground Rice and Honey Glow Mask, £16

      - **Best LED face mask:** Dr Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro, £465

      1. **111SKIN Cryo De-Puffing Energy Mask**

       - **Best sheet mask**

       - **Key ingredients:** Tetrapeptide-5, alpha glucosyl hesperidin, and caffeine.

       - **How to use:** Apply one mask to the top half of your face and the other to the bottom. Leave them on for 20 minutes, then remove, allowing the skin to absorb the excess product. Can be used up to three times a week.

       - **Pros:** Refreshing on the skin, great to use in the morning, gives skin a bright and glowy appearance.

       - **Cons:** Pricey, single-use product.

       - **My review:** I have mixed feelings about sheet masks. While I dislike their single-use nature, the sensation on the skin is undeniably pleasant. I typically reserve them for special occasions when I want my complexion to look its best. Currently, I'm particularly fond of the 111SKIN Cryo De-Puffing Energy Mask. Inspired by cryotherapy, it helps to reduce puffiness in the morning. The hydrogel material is enriched with ingredients like tetrapeptide-5 and caffeine to enhance blood circulation and tighten the skin. Additionally, its hydrating essence imparts a lovely glow. Unlike most sheet masks that feel oversized, this one has two sections, making it simpler to apply. However, it does tend to slide off, so I prefer to use it while lying down for optimal results. A top tip? Store it in the fridge for an extra cooling effect.

      2. **Caudalie Instant Detox Mask**

       - **Best clarifying face mask**

       - **Key ingredients:** Pink clay, coffee extract, and grape marc.

       - **How to use:** Apply a thin layer once a week and leave on for five to ten minutes before rinsing off.

       - **Pros:** Simple to apply, draws impurities from the skin.

       - **Cons:** May not be suitable for sensitive skin.

       - **My review:** Targeted at oily and combination skin types, this clarifying mask from Caudalie effectively extracts impurities and excess oil, gradually minimizing the appearance of pores and blemishes. It’s ideal for my skin type, and I like to use it weekly for the best results. Similar to other clay masks, it hardens after a few minutes, and rinsing it off is quite satisfying. Just keep in mind that this mask tends to leave a matte finish, which might not appeal to those who prefer a dewy look.

      3. **Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask**

       - **Best hydrating face mask**

       - **Key ingredients:** Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, niacinamide, allantoin, and bisabolol.

       - **How to use:** Apply a visible layer onto the skin and leave it on for at least ten minutes before wiping off any excess.

       - **My review:** If you're looking for hydration, you need to try the iconic Jet Lag Mask from Summer Fridays. Not only does it have a chic appearance, but it also serves multiple purposes. It can be used as a moisturizer, a facial mask, an overnight treatment, or even a hand cream for quick hydration. I turn to it whenever my skin is looking dull or lifeless,