It's hard to believe all that we have endured the past year and a half. Between mask mandates and shutdowns, we have been cooped up in the house longer than we would have ever expected. And while our bodies have experienced change, so has our skin. "Quaranskin" is a whole thing – how our skin has been impacted during the quarantine. You may have been looking in the mirror wondering what's different and how can I get my old glow back? Two words: face mask.
We recently learned the magic behind face masks from Penn Medicine. "The mask traps the moisture or ingredient in the skin and creates film that helps to either hydrate, moisturize, dry or exfoliate the skin depending on the ingredients used and its purpose." Basically, face masks understand their assignment. We also understand our assignment to help you shine all summer. We have rounded up some amazing face masks that will not only revive your skin but feed your soul as a means of self-care.
LUSH Mask of Magnaminty
When LUSH says this is a cult classic, they are speaking facts! Its powerful ingredients intensely clean and exfoliate your skin in ways you can't even imagine. Kaolin, peppermint, aduki beans, and honey work together to discard the debris and promote hydration. Trust us when we say that this is the awakening your face needs.
Glossier Mask Duo greens + moon masks
The tagline: "Two masks to put skin in a good mood." And we love a good mood, honey. Packed with superfruit antioxidants, the mega greens mask detoxes while the moon mask brightens and hydrates. You can use them alone or you can give your skin a one-two punch by applying the moon mask and then the mega greens, in that order. Whether you struggle with hormonal acne, combination skin, or random breakouts, this duo is life-changing.
fresh Mini Rose Face Mask
It's basically self-care in a jar. The real rose petals make this face mask luxurious and we believe you and all your homegirls deserve luxury in all ways. Not only does it soothe and tone, but it also plumps your skin to keep that melanin glowing. 90 percent of reviewers said it nourished and visibly improved the appearance of their skin.
RéVive Masque de Radiance Brightening Moisture Mask
RéVive
The Vitamin C in this souffle-like mask boosts moisture for a radiance you've never experienced. The way the formula transforms from pearlescent white to a shimmering shade of gold is truly magical. If you're struggling with dull skin, you need to add this to your cart ASAP. Best of all, it now comes with a "dual-applicator to invigorate skin with a gentle massage."
Eminence Organic Skincare Clear Skin Probiotic Masque
Eminence Organic Skincare
Did you know that Tamron Hall said she's in love with Eminence's Clear Skin Probiotic Masque? "Sometimes I'll walk the dog with the mask and sunglasses on and scare my neighbors." That means it has to be worth it! Clear skin is much more achievable with this product in your beauty arsenal.
Youth to the People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Mask
Lather this creamy mask on before bed for bright, even-toned skin. It's formulated with a proprietary Superberry Blend: Maqui, acai, prickly pear, goji berry, sunflower, moringa, squalane. Word on the street is that it's the most tolerable Vitamin C face mask. You'll look forward to your nighttime routine for this reason.
Kiehl’s Turmeric & Cranberry Seed Energizing Radiance Mask
Still nervous about getting a facial in a pandemic? Try this Kiehl's masque. It is an instant facial that will have you looking like a new woman. Turmeric is known for its antioxidant properties so it is ideal for brightening skin. Then, you have the effervescent cranberry made up of antioxidants and resveratrol. The seeds from the cranberries assist in delaminating the skin which equals smooth and radiant.
Versed DOCTOR'S VISIT INSTANT RESURFACING MASK
In just two minutes, this Versed mask begins tackling hyperpigmentation. From lactic to glycolic acids, you can count on Doctor's Visit to make dead skin and dark spots disappear. Your pores will never be happier than after drenching it with this vitamin C-rich pineapple and papaya enzymes mask.
Herbivore Botanicals Prism Exfoliating Glow Facial
Herbivore Botanicals
What's better than rose water and aloe vera? The answer is nothing. That's why this jelly-textured facial is what dreams are made of. It sits comfortably at the intersection of cleansing and exfoliating so you'll notice brighter and softer skin before you know it. It doesn't hurt that the packaging is super cute!
ORIGINS ORIGINAL SKIN™ Retexturizing Mask With Rose Clay
Keeping with the rose theme, we are obsessed with the way this mask makes our skin soft as a baby's bottom. With ease, the clay mask "gently draws out dirt and debris, exfoliates to refine skin's texture and visibly minimizes the look of pores in one simple step." The results? Skin like Beyonce.
Keys Soulcare HARMONY MASK
Manuka honey is known to improve your skin's appearance. Activated charcoal is infamous for being a super cleanser. When you put them together, you get long-lasting hydration and a balanced stillness that is unmatched. We also can't get over the affirmation that comes with this mask: "I walk in my own strength." What a vibe!
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Although it’s pretty customary for me to present some spring-themed content (more to come on that, by the way), this time, I wanted to offer up a semi-brief 10-point plan for making the most ofMarch 20-June 20, 2025. Because since time is moving so swiftly, now more than ever, it’s important to make the absolute most of each and every day.
And so, as far as this spring is concerned, here are some ways to do exactly that, sis.
1. Take Advantage of the “Extra” Hour
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If you’ve ever wondered about the backstory of daylight savings, in 1918, the Standard Time Act was introduced in order for us to have an extra hour of sunlight. And while the feelings about daylight savings time are a bit of a mixed bag (for instance, some studies say that it reduces productivity and disrupts sleeping patterns), if you’re someone who feels more energized when the sun is out, you prefer to drive when it’s brighter outside and/or you need the sun for the sake of your mental health (because it sunlight does help to decrease depression-related symptoms) — use “springing forward” as an opportunity to take advantage of all of this.
Because, when you have a full to-do list on a daily basis, you never know what that extra hour can help you to accomplish. Real talk.
2. Get More Vitamin D into Your System
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Speaking of more sunlight, as the days get longer, why not take walks after dinner or enjoy a cocktail or mocktail in your backyard? Both of these options are very easy ways to get more vitamin D into your system — and that’s especially important for us as Black women because our extra melanin makes it harder for our skin to absorb the vitamin D that comes from the sun.
That said, since vitamin D helps to boost immunity, fight off heart disease, regulate our moods, aid in weight loss, and strengthen bones and muscles and the the sun is getting brighter and the weather is getting warmer as we speak, why not absorb all of the benefits of that vitamin D (from the sun) has to offer — just as soon as you possibly can?
3. Become More Creative
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Did you know that, as it gets warmer outside, your dopamine levels start to increase? This is cool to know because dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a direct role when it comes to your moods, how you experience pleasure, your attention span, your memories, and your ability to learn. And that’s why there is quite a bit of data that says spring can help you to become a more creative individual.
So, if you’ve been thinking about taking an art class, launching a website or even just writing a poem or song, this would be the time of year to do it. Why wait?
4. Be Open to a (More) Romantic Relationship
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Here’s something that might trip you out. If you’re starting to think more about dating, commitment, and/or sex right through here, the spring season may have something to do with that. Yep, according to science, during the wintertime, your serotonin levels are lower than they are during the warmer months. And since serotonin (a natural body chemical) plays a role in things like your mood and even your libido, if someone (you trust) wants to set you up on a blind date — why not go? You never know what the spring season may bring you. #wink
5. Realize That Humidity Does Have Beauty Benefits
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As it gets warmer, it’s pretty common for humidity to go up a notch too. And since humidity levels are simply based on the amount of water vapors that are in the air at any given time, your skin can certainly reap some of the rewards of there being more moisture in the air. Humidity can give your skin more hydration. Humidity can help new skin cells to turnover at an accelerated rate. Humidity can even slow down the signs of aging. And all of this is just one more reason to spend more time outdoors (with some sunscreen on your face and body, of course).
6. Spring Cleaning Can Get Things (Back) in Order
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Although many people think about hitting those baseboards whenever spring cleaning comes to mind, I’ve written articles for the platform like “Yes Couples, You Can 'Spring Clean' Your Sex Life” and “Let's Finally 'Spring Clean' ALL Of Our Exes Out Of Our Lives, Shall We?” as a reminder that, at the end of the day, spring cleaning should really be about (re)organizing your home and your life, in general.
This includes cleaning up your house; putting away winter clothes; clearing out emails and texts that you no longer need; reevaluating your relationships; setting some new goals when it comes to your purpose, passion, and career, and cultivating a schedule that will help you to make the most of your time.
7. Enjoy Your Local Farmers Market
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Apples, apricots, avocados, cabbage, collard greens, kale, garlic, pineapples, strawberries and turnips. Wanna know something that all of these foods have in common? They’re all in season in the springtime. Know what else? There’s a really good chance that you’ll be able to find them at your local farmers market.
I adore the farmers market for a few reasons. For one thing, the produce tends to be fresher than it is at the grocery store. Another thing? Oftentimes everything is cheaper. Not to mention the fact that by shopping at a farmers market, you are literally supporting the local farmers in your area. Plus, it can be an awesome date experience. Enjoy a couple of hours perusing the market and, if things go really well there, cook some of the things that you purchased and have a picnic later on. Perfection.
8. Spend (More) Time with Your Homies
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Quality time is something that we all need when it comes to nurturing our friendships. So, also use the spring season to hang out with your peeps more. Have a rooftop dinner. Go to the zoo. See a play or movie together in the park. Enjoy wine tasting, miniature golf, or go hiking. TIME once published an article entitled, “Why Spending Time with Friends Is One of the Best Things You Can Do for Your Health.” Check it out when you get a chance. Then send your friends an invite to welcome the new season in.
9. Embrace the Extra Safety
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Guess what else is pretty cool about spring — it’s reportedly the time of year when the least crime occurs. Interestingly enough, although the summertime is when quite a bit of crime goes down, the spring season is when (for instance), your car is least likely to be broken into. Just one more reason to feel pretty good about being outdoors right now.
10. Start Over. That’s What Spring Means.
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I’m pretty big on symbolism and the spring season certainly has some. Spring represents things like rebirth, renewal, starting over and even finding new love. So, if you’ve been feeling like you’re in a bit of a rut as of late and you’re ready for a change, the spring season comes with the type of energy that can encourage and inspire you.
A poet by the name of Christian Rossetti once said, “Spring is when life’s alive in everything.” Plant some seeds of newness in your life — watch how spring blooms for you once you do. Happy Spring, y’all!
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