Difference between Facial and Face Mask

Key Difference: Facial is a beauty treatment for the face. It is a procedure that involves various steps in order to clean and improve the complexion of the face. A Face Mask refers to a skin cleansing preparation. They are used to reduce the dryness of the skin. A face mask is often used in facial.

Everyone loves to be pampered. One way that is often admired by women to pamper their skin is to get a facial. Facial aims to provide a clear and youthful skin. The task is accomplished in several tasks focusing on various skin treatments. A facial is also known as a deep cleansing facial because it removes the debris accumulated in the pores. The technique can be termed as extraction. However, one must be careful in choosing the right facial that suits the skin type. In case of some complications with the skin, it is always good to include a dermatologist’s advice.

A basic facial can be done at home. However, most of the people opt to go to a spa or a salon. An aesthetician applies a variety of products ranging from creams, gels, masks and lotion to clean the skin. Facials should be considered as an add-on to the regular skin routine.

Facial masks are generally referred to as non-setting masks. They are used to reduce the dryness of the skin. A face mask is often used in facial. A mask often contains ingredients like clay, black moor mud, aloe vera, seaweed, algae, essential oils, massage oils, herbs and vitamins. Facial masks take a longer time to dry in comparison to simple face packs. They are applied with an appropriate thickness. The mask gives a soothing effect to the skin along with the coolness. Masks come in various combinations, and thus one may choose from a variety of options. People with oily skins are advised to use a clay mask. People with normal skins are advised to use a hydrating or a peel mask depending upon the requirement. A dry skin must be applied with a rich and hydrating mask.

Setting masks consists of –

Clay packs

Peel off masks (gel, latex or paraffin wax)

Thermal masks

Non-setting masks include-

Warm oil

Natural masks (fruit plant and herbal)

Cream

Non-setting masks stay soft on application; they do not tighten like a setting mask.

Comparison between Face Mask and Facial:

	Face Mask	Facial
Definition	Facial masks are generally referred to as non-setting masks. They are used to reduce the dryness of the skin. A face mask is often used in facials.	A facial is a beauty treatment for the face. It is a procedure that involves various steps in order to clean and improve the complexion of the face.
Steps	Skin is cleansed properly. Fingers or a Mask Brush is used to spread the layer of a face mask. Allow to set the mask for the recommended time. Use a damp sponge or cloth to remove the mask. Wash the face and neck Use and appropriate toner and moisturizer.	Generally facial includes these steps- Cleansing – mild cleansers are applied in circular upward motion. Exfoliation – it includes scrubbing and after that the scrub is wiped off. Steaming – it is done in order to open up the pores of the skin. This is essential as toning substances can then be absorbed easily. Toning – a suitable toner is applied. Face pack or mask application – it is usually left until dry. Moisturizing – after wiping off the mask or the face pack, a suitable moisturizer is applied.
Duration	Generally, it takes around 20 to 30 minutes.	Generally varies form 30 minutes to hour or can also be extended upto one and half an hour.
Precautions	A face mask that is suitable to the skin type should only be used. A face mask should be evenly applied to the face.	Only the facial that is recommended to the particular skin type should be done. It should be performed by a licensed aesthetician. Windy weather and direct sunlight should be avoided. One must avoid immediate use of cosmetics after facials (the duration depends upon the skin sensitivity)
Benefits	A good face mask helps in moisturizing, cleansing and toning of the skin. It is helpful in de-stressing A face mask can be applied simply and quickly. Regarded as a mini facial Can be applied at home Home made masks can be easily prepared with either of ingredients as the main base of the mask; tomato, banana honey, apple, etc.	It deeply cleanses the skin and pores It removes extra oil It works on the dryness of the face It rejuvenates the old or wrinkled skin It is also used as a relaxing and de-stressing process.
Types	Moisturizing Masks Cleansing Masks Exfoliating Facemasks Clay and Mud Masks Peel-Off Facemasks Gel Masks Etc.	Regular Facial Acne Reduction Facial Galvanic Facial Fruit Facial Paraffin Facial Antioxidant Facial Gold Facial Etc.