How long should a facial mask typically be left on the skin?

Facial masks are commonly left on the skin for a duration that allows their active ingredients to effectively penetrate and provide benefits without causing irritation. Typically, a duration of 10 to 15 minutes is optimal for many types of masks, as this timeframe strikes a balance between allowing the mask to work and ensuring the skin doesn't react negatively to prolonged exposure.

Leaving a mask on for too long, especially beyond 15 minutes, can lead to dryness or irritation as the ingredients may start to draw moisture out of the skin or become overly concentrated on the surface. Hence, 10 to 15 minutes is often recommended for achieving the best results while minimizing the risk of adverse effects.