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Morning, afternoon or evening: The best time to apply face packs is…

Your skin accumulates dirt, oil, and pollutants throughout the day. Here's how you can take care of it

When do you prefer applying face packs? (Source: Freepik)

For many people, skincare is incomplete without face packs that make the skin feel hydrated and refreshed. But turns out there is also a ‘best time’ to apply one. Yes, or at least that’s what Ayurveda practitioner Manisha Mishra Goswami says.

In an Instagram post, stating that blood flow in the skin has a pattern, she noted: “The lowest being in the morning, the highest being in the afternoon, and just one peak in the evening before you go to sleep. So the best time to apply is in the afternoon.” She further shared that it is best to apply it in an upward motion, letting it dry, and then washing it off with water.

To verify this, we turned to Dr Akriti Gupta, a cosmetic dermatologist at Jivisha Clinic in New Delhi.

“The best time to apply a face pack is usually in the evening or before bedtime. Applying a face pack in the evening ensures maximum benefits and fits well into your skincare routine,” said Dr Gupta.

Here’s why.

End of the day: Your skin accumulates dirt, oil, and pollutants throughout the day. “Applying a face pack in the evening allows you to cleanse and rejuvenate your skin,” said Dr Gupta.

Relaxation: An evening or nighttime application lets you relax without the rush of daily activities, allowing the face pack to work uninterrupted.

Skin repair: Your skin undergoes natural repair and regeneration processes while you sleep. “Using a face pack in the evening can enhance these processes and provide additional nourishment,” said Dr Gupta.

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Hydration: Nighttime is ideal for hydration. “After removing the face pack, you can apply a rich moisturiser that will work overnight to keep your skin supple and hydrated,” said Dr Gupta.

What’s your routine? (Source: Freepik)

Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying a face pack

Applying a face pack properly can maximise its benefits for your skin. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

*Cleanse your face: Start with a clean face. Use a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and makeup.

*Exfoliate: Optionally, exfoliate your skin to remove dead skin cells. This helps the face pack penetrate better.

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*Steam your face: Steaming opens up your pores, making it easier for the face pack to work its magic. You can use a bowl of hot water and a towel over your head, or take a warm shower.

*Apply the face pack: Mix the face pack as directed. Using clean fingers or a brush, apply an even layer of the face pack to your face, avoiding the eye and lip areas.

*Apply in upward strokes: To counteract gravity’s pull on your skin.

*Relax: Leave the face pack on for the recommended time (usually 10-20 minutes). During this time, relax and avoid making facial movements.

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A post shared by Manisha Mishra Goswami (@dr.manisha.mishra)

*Rinse off: Gently rinse off the face pack with lukewarm water. Use circular motions to remove it without scrubbing too hard.

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Also Read | Kriti Sanon says ‘don’t use physical scrubs’: here’s why they are ‘really bad’

*Toner: Use a toner to close your pores and restore your skin’s pH balance if you have oily skin, and apply a serum if you have dry skin.

*Moisturise: Apply a moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated and soft.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your face pack is applied properly and effectively.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.

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