8 best whitening face masks - effective and reliable products

Healthy facial skin is an adornment to any appearance. The epidermis can lose its natural luster for various reasons, be it the appearance of age spots, excessive tanning, or complications after cosmetic surgery. Using a whitening mask can help level out, and in some cases, eliminate the problem altogether.

Photo: Pixabay.com

As a rule, the formulas of such products are enriched with:

• Acids - organic or fatty. Ascorbic acid may also be used.
• Extracts of medicinal plants.
• Various moisturizing ingredients.
• Small scrubbing particles.

To get the desired effect and eliminate possible adverse consequences, you need to take into account the type and condition of your skin.

For example, the procedure is contraindicated:

• People suffering from serious diseases such as eczema or psoriasis.
• For those with a sensitive type of epidermis.
• If there are inflammations in the active phase on the face.
• In the presence of fresh wounds and scars.

In this case, as a rule, experts recommend taking a break between a course of 10 procedures. In the process of skin whitening with masks, do not forget about the best sun protection. A special cream with SPF factor should be a mandatory companion.

We present the rating of whitening face masks 2022. The best 8 products that were selected by our experts based on user reviews and ratings.

2 Elizavecca Milky Piggy Glutinous 80% Mask Snail Cream with snail mucin

The products of the Korean brand Elizavecca came close to the top of the ranking, taking second place.
The company, founded in 1986, is still guided by the principle of harmony of naturalness and effectiveness of components. Each product is equipped with a security hologram, with which you can verify the authenticity of the product. Release form: tamper evident cardboard packaging. A useful substance with a volume of 100 ml is placed in a round jar with a screw-on lid. For hygiene purposes, there is a convenient spatula for application. The consistency of the mask resembles a viscous cream; you can feel the presence of snail mucus. The aroma is rich, sweetish.

The beneficial effect on the epidermis is explained by the presence of snail mucin (80%). Not only does it smooth out skin texture and eliminate fine wrinkles, but it can also help fade scars and acne marks. In addition, it contains macadamia nut and olive oils. Their task is to smooth the skin, reduce inflammation and give the face a healthy and well-groomed appearance.

Buyers are delighted with the Korean mask from Elizavecca. In addition to excellent moisturizing and smoothing the skin texture, it really brightens the face. Most of those who tested the product say they would buy it again. The only thing that puzzled some was the texture, which is far from typical for Europeans.

Pros:

• Feels good on the skin.
• Nourishes.
• Smoothes the relief.
• Significantly brightens.
• Prolonged hydration.

Minuses:

• Atypical texture.

Elizavecca Milky Piggy Glutinous 80% Mask Snail Cream Cream mask with snail mucin for face

Porcelain Skin: Top 6 Brightening Face Masks

Diversity is one of the main features of the modern world. So, some people strive for a perfect tan, while others hide from the sun and protect their light skin tone in every possible way. We have already told you how to create an even tan without leaving home, and today’s article is for those who, on the contrary, want to lighten their skin and remove pigmentation. So let's talk about the best whitening face masks.

How do whitening masks work?

As a rule, the whitening effect in cosmetics is guaranteed by acids, as well as vitamins A and C. These substances perform two tasks:

• Exfoliation. Acids (which are also the main components of peelings) actively act on the top layer of skin, causing it to get rid of dead particles. Together with them, impurities and excess sebum, which accumulate on the surface and often provoke a dull (grayish) complexion, accentuate pigmentation and small scars, go away.
• Cell renewal. Following the exfoliation of the old epidermis, acids provoke the active production of new, healthier cells. Due to this update, unwanted tanning is neutralized faster, and the tone becomes more even and lighter. But it is worth noting that the maximum effect is possible if you use SPF in parallel.

@xenia.lau

@xenia.lau
Naturally, the acids in lightening masks are not aggressive and are safe for the skin, even if you leave the product on overnight (the main thing is to remember to wash your face in the morning and evening so that makeup and care residues do not accumulate in the tissues). And vitamins work in tandem with acids in lightening masks:

• Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is one of the main ones responsible for evening out and brightening the tone. It strengthens the immune system of cells, stimulates their renewal, and also fights post-acne, soothes inflammation and prevents photoaging.
• Vitamin A (retinol) is the “component of youth.” It evens out skin tone, improves its structure and promotes the production of its own collagen and elastin (which form the elastic frame of tissues). Vitamin A is also an effective fighter against pigmentation and the harmful effects of UV rays.

The main rule of lightening products: in parallel with them, regularly apply SPF. Indeed, under the influence of active ultraviolet rays, some components are oxidized, and this can negate or greatly weaken the lightening effect.

@anyaholdstock

Homemade brightening masks

There are many fans of “home cooking” on the Internet when it comes to beauty products. This is especially true for masks: it would seem that all you have to do is mix the ingredients at hand and the mask is ready at a minimum cost. However, we do not recommend getting carried away with such experiments, because in cosmetics the dosage of one or another component is extremely important.

This is especially true for acids (which are found in fruits, dairy products, pharmaceutical powders and other common ingredients in homemade lightening masks). The skin on the face is very delicate and the wrong ratio of ingredients can cause rashes and other negative reactions. Unfortunately, at home it is extremely difficult to determine the optimal composition and the use of homemade products is fraught with risk.

Factory masks, on the contrary, undergo testing; the components in their composition are carefully selected and measured by specialists before they hit the store shelf. Therefore, we advise you not to get carried away with home experiments, but to give preference to proven cosmetics brands for which beauty and skin health are their main specialization.

Now let’s move on to a selection of the best brightening face masks with proven composition and effect.

EISENBERG Relaxing cream mask Pure White

Eisenberg is one of the few brands that creates high-quality products both in perfumery and decorative cosmetics, and in care. The Parisian brand has absorbed many years of Swiss research and scientific work, and as a result, Eisenberg offers advanced formulations rich in natural substances. The mask from the Pure White series contains:

• Ascorbic, lactic and citric acids, which together effectively exfoliate and whiten the skin, and also have a lifting effect and improve cell structure.
• Natural antioxidants (including arbutin) actively moisturize and brighten the skin, and also fight bacteria.
• A complex of plant extracts to combat pigmentation and lighten tone: European beech, orange, rosehip, perennial daisy. This complex also has a healing, bactericidal and rejuvenating effect.
• Milk protein and bisabolol relieve irritation and soften the skin.

It is recommended to use the mask 1-2 times a week. Apply for 15-20 minutes; residues can be removed with a cotton pad or spread over the skin with massage movements until completely absorbed.

ESMI SKIN MINERALS Brightening face mask

Esmi Skin Minerals is an Australian brand with a strong social position: it produces vegan products that are not tested on animals. Esmi Skin Minerals brightening mask is sold in laconic jars and is suitable for those who have given up sheet masks. The composition of the product is rich in valuable active substances:

• Vitamin C derivative and plant antioxidants whiten the skin and stimulate the production of tissue's own collagen.
• Clay exfoliates and has a lifting effect.
• Squalene attracts and retains moisture in tissues and protects the skin.
• Licorice relieves irritation, removes stains and fights germs.

It is better to apply the Esmi Skin Minerals mask at night so that the components have time to activate on the skin. Excess product will go away with your morning wash. Esmi Skin Minerals is an excellent choice for those who not only care about their skin, but are also supporters of plant-based ingredients and the cruelty-free movement*.

BELLEZA CASTILLO Brightening face mask Cat

In addition to its cute design, the Korean sheet mask BELLEZA CASTILLO contains a storehouse of useful ingredients for brightening and improving the overall condition of the skin:

• Vitamin C derivatives, vitamin B3 and snail mucus are some of the strongest whitening ingredients that, among other things, enhance the production of natural collagen and improve skin condition in the long term.
• A complex of plant components: Damask rose and chamomile even out the tone and soothe the skin, rhodiola tones and rejuvenates, pomegranate and dandelion nourish and fight inflammation, purslane fights fungi and microbes.
• Olive actively moisturizes tissues.
• Allantoin heals, softens the skin and prevents clogging of pores.
• Panthenol and licorice prevent acne, remove redness and blemishes on the skin.

Lightening is one of the main trends in Asian care, so many clients turn to this segment of the beauty market to even out their tone. It is recommended to apply the BELLEZA CASTILLO mask for 10-20 minutes up to 3 times a week.

100% PURE Kaolin powder face mask with vitamin C and Camu Camu

The name of the American brand 100% Pure means “100% pure”, and the brand’s products fully justify this name. Cosmetics from 100% Pure are hypoallergenic, not tested on animals, suitable for those with sensitive skin and vegans, they do not contain synthetic impurities, sulfates, parabens and aggressive surfactants.

The 100% Pure Brightening Mask contains:

• Fruit acids, enzymes and vitamin C that effectively whiten the skin, eliminating pigmentation and evening out tone.
• Vitamin B3 regulates sebum production, relieves swelling, restores the skin's protective barrier and fights acne.
• Camu camu and other plant antioxidants soften and rejuvenate the skin.
• Rosehip tones, brightens and has a bactericidal effect.
• Hyaluronic acid restores skin structure and also attracts and retains moisture in tissues.
• Clay exfoliates, mattifies and tightens the skin.

Another advantage of the product is its economical consumption due to its powder form. Before use, dilute a small amount (about 1 tablespoon) of the powder with water, then apply the mask to the face and neck, leave for 10-15 minutes and rinse. The product is suitable for daily use.

AHC PREMIUM MASK Face mask with black pearls

AHC is a prominent representative of K-beauty cosmetics (Korean care). The brand's brightening mask is a complex of premium ingredients for healing and improving the appearance of the skin. It contains:

• Collagen that improves tissue structure.
• Schisandra chinensis, vitamin E and mulberry, which brighten the skin and relieve irritation.
• Sesame protects and mattifies.
• Arginine has a lifting effect.
• Natural antioxidants soften, retain moisture in tissues and provide an anti-aging effect.

It is recommended to use the mask chilled (keep it in the refrigerator until the indicator on the back of the package turns green). Keep it on your face for 10-20 minutes and use 1-2 times a week.

SHISEIDO White Lucent Night Cream Mask

Shiseido is one of the most respectable Japanese cosmetics brands. White Lucent Night Mask is a universal product for all skin types that does not require rinsing. The brightening effect is achieved through:

• SAKURA-BRIGHT complex, which suppresses factors that cause pigmentation.
• RENEURA TECHNOLOGY +™ technology, which increases the skin's positive response to nutrients and blocks signals that negatively affect the response of sensory receptors.

Among other things, the cream contains caffeine: it improves microcirculation in tissues and relieves swelling, as well as natural antioxidants and substances against acne and irritation. As a result, the skin looks fresher and more radiant day by day, the tone is evened out, and fine wrinkles are smoothed out. On particularly dry skin, the product can be used as a night cream.

A light and even complexion is the result of comprehensive care and high-quality skin protection from external influences. Fortunately, modern brands of cosmetics allow you to whiten your skin as quickly and safely as possible, and at the same time tighten and moisturize it. And if tanning is not your thing, then be sure to try the brightening mask from our selection and you will quickly be pleased with the results!

*Cruelty-free (which means “cruelty-free”) is a movement against testing products on animals.

Cover photo: @xenia.lau.

Contraindications

Unfortunately, not all women are recommended to use products with whitening ingredients at home. Their use is not recommended:

• If the epidermis is hypersensitive and prone to dryness;
• With a large number of inflamed acne rashes on the face;
• In case of severe skin irritation due to the cosmetics used;
• Patients with dermatological diseases such as vitiligo, melanoma, impetigo, keratosis;
• If there are open wounds and ulcers on the dermis;
• During the recovery period after cosmetic surgery on the face. Typically, the use of special masks is permitted no earlier than 6 weeks after the procedure.

Ignoring contraindications and rules for using cosmetics can cause adverse reactions and increase the visibility of the defect. A preliminary visit to a qualified cosmetologist will help prevent unwanted consequences. The doctor will determine the cause of pigmentation, eliminate contraindications and help you choose the most effective skin whitening program.

Criterias of choice

Recommendations on what to look for when purchasing:

1. Facial skin type. Most masks are universal, but it is better to choose one for your skin type. The older you get, the more important this indicator is, because each product contains drying components that can harm you.
2. Age. This criterion should not be overlooked. Age-related cosmetics can harm young skin; they contain anti-aging components that produce certain substances in the body.
3. Compound. Products containing additional elements that improve and nourish the skin will work in combination with whitening, the result will be much better than when using products only for whitening.
4. Types of means. They are available in the form of gels, creams, fabric masks or alginate products. Each of them has its own characteristics and positive aspects. The gel one does not flow when applied, the alginate one has a great effect, but it requires a mask activator for dilution. Oxygen bubble therapy is quite effective, but some people find it convenient to use. When choosing, rely on your feelings, which means are more convenient for you to use, also take into account your capabilities, as well as the result you want to get in the end.
5. The best manufacturers. Undoubtedly, the market leaders are Korean manufacturers; their products are the most widespread and one of the most effective. Products from China are the most inexpensive, the material for their production has a minimum cost, and the effect of its use is quite large.
6. Where can I buy. Such products are quite easy to find; they are sold in any cosmetics store or can be ordered online in an online store. When ordering on online resources, pay attention to how much each model costs from different suppliers, choose the appropriate option. The functionality of these masks will be the same, but you can save significantly on the difference in price.

Who is not recommended to use a whitening mask?

So that the mask can act on the cells of the dermis, it contains a large amount of fruit acids. They have an aggressive effect, for this reason such products have their limitations and contraindications.

One of the main contraindications is skin disease. Do not use the product if you have keratosis, melanoma, vitiligo, dermatitis and other skin diseases. You should also not apply this product if you have a lot of acne on your face. Due to the composition of the product, you can “burn” the skin.

People with sensitive or dry skin are also not recommended to use this mask. The aggressive components of the product will harm the epidermis, after which it will take a long time to restore it. In addition, it is prohibited to apply whitening products if there are wounds, injuries on the face, or if surgery has recently been performed in this area.

If there is at least one of the listed contraindications, then you should not bleach the epidermis at home. This can lead to serious consequences. In this case, it is better to consult a dermatologist and cosmetologist. Professionals will be able to choose the best approach and remedy to get rid of pigmentation or even out the tone of the dermis.