H.E.O. Mask

Three kinds of moisture, in order

H.E.O. stands for humectants, emollients and occlusives, the three mechanisms every good moisturiser uses, here separated into two steps so each can be dosed properly. Step 1 is the water phase: glycerin, saccharide isomerate (a humectant that binds to keratin and holds for days), aloe, glyceryl glucoside, urea, sodium PCA and sodium hyaluronate draw water into the skin. Step 2 is the lipid phase: squalane, ceramide NP, linoleic acid, olive-derived emulsifiers and a light silicone seal it in.

The barrier cast

Ceramide NP and linoleic acid are two of the lipids skin uses to build its own barrier, and the lactic acid and acetyl glucosamine in Step 2 sit at conditioning rather than exfoliating levels. Sea kale extract is included for longer-term hydration support, and allantoin keeps the gel step calm. Medik8 reports 72 hours of hydration and barrier support after one application, with 94% of testers showing a measurable improvement in moisturisation.

The fit

A two or three nights a week overnight reset for dry, dehydrated or over-worked skin, and the kindest landing a retinoid night can have. Fragrance-free and essential-oil-free, which is unusual for a Medik8 cream.

Dry, dehydrated and dull skin wanting an overnight hydration reset; retinoid and acid users whose barrier needs a recovery night; and anyone travelling, flying or in heating and air-conditioning who finds their usual moisturiser is not holding.

Worth knowing

Fragrance-free and essential-oil-free. Contains lactic acid at a conditioning level only, so it is not an exfoliant. Non-comedogenic. Suitable during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Patch test 24 hours before first use if skin is reactive.

Evenings, two to three times a week, as the final step. On cleansed skin smooth an almond-sized amount of Step 1 over face, neck and décolletage, avoiding the eye area, and let it absorb. Follow with an almond-sized amount of Step 2 over the same areas. Leave on overnight and cleanse as usual in the morning. Each tube gives around fifty uses.

Use alongside

Replaces your night cream on the nights you use it, so skip Advanced Night Restore or Total Moisture that evening. Goes over serums and over Crystal Retinal on nights you want extra cushioning, and makes a gentle recovery night between acid or retinal applications.