Biotherm Aquasource Emergency Hydration Mask $52
The test: "I've been indoor swimming quite a lot and it's dried my skin out, so I really need some emergency hydration. The mask was thick like whipped icing (my boyfriend said I looked like a pink cupcake!). I left it on for longer than the recommended 10 minutes because I loved the soothing sensation and the sweet floral aroma." Jo, 29
The verdict: "Three days after using the mask, my skin still looks plump, fresh and radiant and the area around my eyes even looks better. It's a keeper!"

Chanel Precision Anti-Fatigue Gel Mask $75
The test: "I've been working long hours lately and hoped this would perk me up for the weekend. Love the spatula it comes with, made it very easy (and fun) to apply. The gel texture was surprisingly cooling and it smelled delicately of citrus. I followed the anti-stress massage technique in the booklet and for 10 minutes I was transported to a very happy place." Miah, 33
The verdict: "Even though my husband's snoring kept me awake most of the night and I still felt fatigued, my skin looks vibrant and fresh and the lines around my nose and mouth look smoother. I'd coat my whole body in this if I could!"

Estée Lauder Resilience Lift Extreme Ultra Firming Mask $98
The test: "My skin's been feeling a bit saggy so a non-surgical facelift sounded fab. Before going to bed, I slathered on the rich cream. After a while it went super glossy, almost iridescent like a pearl." Leila, 34
The verdict: "I didn't think it'd much effect until I walked into the office and people started asking me what I'd done to my skin. I reckon this is a perfect mask for over 30s who want a mid-week pick-me-up."

Avon Anew Dramatic Smoother Mask $19.99
The test: "I don't normally use masks so I was curious about what it would do for my skin. I set an alarm for 10 minutes as the packaging warns about tingling and redness and I didn't want to take any chances!" Jules, 25
The verdict: "It went on like wet cement and dried almost as hard. But thankfully it rinsed off easily - no blotches or irritated skin. Phew. And it did the business - touching my skin felt like touching fresh crème brulee. Mmmm."

Clinique Turnaround 15-Minute Facial $63
The test: "Being a multi-tasker, I jumped out of the shower, applied a thin layer of the mask on my face and then fake tanned my legs while I waited. I liked the consistency and it was a cinch to apply - not too thick or sticky." Lucy, 28
The verdict: "Fifteen minutes later I wiped if off with a wet face cloth and my skin was as soft as a baby's bum and my cheeks were glowing. It lived up to its claims - my skin was noticeably brighter. I'll definitely use this again."

BS detector
Pores don't change size - ever. Masks may soak up oil and impurities that can magnify the appearance or pores, but any tightening is a temporary optical illusion.