British skincare and spa brand Medik8 has launched the H.E.O. Mask solution to help deliver and retain hydration to the skin for over 24 hours.

The overnight mask is packaged into two tubes: one of which contains a cooling, water-based gel (Step 1) while the other holds a silky, nourishing cream (Step 2).

Both cruelty-free and vegan formulas are built on what Medik8 refers to as the three fundamental elements of moisturisation; humectants, emollients and occlusives.

“This powerhouse trio provides the ultimate solution for dry and dehydrated skin,” explained Daniel Isaacs, Medik8’s director of research.

“Humectants are conditioning agents that regulate moisture levels in the skin. They’re able to retain that moisture and immobilise water molecules, keeping them within the skin in order to maintain and boost hydration levels.

“Emollients, on the other hand, are long chains of saturated fatty acids which utilise their skin-identical lipid properties to form a waterproof barrier in the upper layers of the skin. This helps to repair the skin’s barrier function which is essential for keeping the skin hydrated and healthy.

“Finally, occlusives are mainly oil-based and are made up of large molecules that are too big to penetrate the skin and instead maintain the moisture content of the skin by reducing transepidermal water loss.”

Medik8 claims the three elements work synergistically while you sleep to leave the skin deeply hydrated, visibly plumped and strengthened against moisture loss while also creating a relaxing, pre-sleep ritual.

Medik8 told Spa Business that the H.E.O. Mask will be used as part of the brand’s Deep Hydration Facial in spas.

The fragrance-free mask protocol has been designed for those with dry, dehydrated skin as well as anyone looking for an extra boost of moisture. The mask has been clinically proven to be non-comedogenic and ultra-gentle on all skin types.