There are face masques and face masks. I have used some wonderful ones in my time, one of my faves being the Dermalogica multivitamin power recovery masque, which will set you back to the tune of twenty odd quid. For those on a more refined budget, Avon offers affordable products that won't leave your wallet empty for the next month.

This is a nifty little mask which is designed to perk up dull skin and also rid your face of nasty dead skin cells. It is possible to exfoliate some of these cells away with a decent facial scrub, but a mask will go further and permeate deeper into the skin, shredding unwanted layers.

It comes in a neat and discreet tube, so you could easily have it in a bag or even a pocket for emergencies! Perfect to travel with, or keep in the bathroom cabinet. To use, apply to cleansed dry skin and work into the cheeks and neck in gentle circular motions. It is then wise to leave it to work some magic for up to ten minutes. You can leave it for longer if desired. No tingling sensation here, as the ingredients are all soothing and calming. Then rinse off, this is quite lightweight so rinsing is easy.

The results are satisfactory, leaving skin a little more radiant, though not as bright and perky as the Dermalogica masque. I have also had better results with the fresh face masques from Lush stores. This does leave the face feeling calmer and soothed and lovely to touch, but does not offer the dazzling results of the higher priced masks. For under five pounds though it does represent a cheaper alternative for people on a budget and would suffice as a mid week pick me up. Worth considering, but not an essential.