Swiss Face Masks & Exfoliators

These two product types sit together because they share a rhythm — used weekly rather than daily — but they do opposite things. An exfoliator removes; a mask delivers. Used in that order, on the same evening, they work well together: clearing the surface first means whatever the mask carries has a shorter route in. Used carelessly, particularly acids followed by an active-heavy mask, they irritate.

Physical, chemical and enzymatic exfoliation

Physical scrubs work by friction. They give immediate smoothness but are the easiest to overdo, and coarse particles create micro-tears on thin or reactive skin. Chemical exfoliants dissolve the bonds holding dead cells in place — AHAs like glycolic and lactic acid work on the surface and suit dullness and pigmentation; BHAs like salicylic acid are oil-soluble and reach into pores, which makes them the choice for congestion. Enzymatic exfoliants use fruit or plant enzymes to digest keratin, working more slowly and far more gently; these are usually the right starting point for sensitive skin.

Choosing a mask

Clay and mud masks absorb oil and suit congested or oily skin — but they should be removed before they dry completely, since a fully dried clay mask pulls moisture from the skin as well. Cream and balm masks nourish and suit dry or mature skin; several can be left on overnight. Sheet masks deliver a concentrated serum under an occlusive layer, which is what makes them effective — the sheet stops evaporation. Gel masks cool and soothe, and suit skin that is reactive or has had too much sun.

How often, and in what order

Once or twice a week is enough for most skin; oily and congested skin tolerates more, reactive skin often less. The order on a treatment evening is: cleanse, exfoliate, rinse, mask, rinse or remove, then serum and moisturiser. Do not exfoliate and use a strong acid mask in the same session. Skip exfoliation entirely while skin is inflamed or sunburnt, and use sun protection the following day without exception — freshly exfoliated skin is more vulnerable to UV.

Shipping from Switzerland

All products are authentic and sourced directly from Swiss manufacturers or their authorised distributors. Free shipping within Switzerland from CHF 100, worldwide from CHF 300. Dispatched from our Lausanne base.