The luxuriousness of the product comes across in the packaging, a hefty jar with a pristine – and surprisingly soft – white brush. La Mer suggests using the mask as a weekly treatment, preferably at night when the skin is undergoing its natural renewal process.

With my often reactive skin, I was hesitant to go to sleep with a new product slathered on my face. But the texture of this mask was quite light, and not at all greasy. I followed the instructions, applying a thin layer with the brush and then massaging it into the skin. Unlike Crème de La Mer, which has a tendency to leave a greasy residue if not applied properly, the Lifting & Firming Mask left a smooth, matte finish.

Also unlike other anti-ageing masks, this one is meant to be left on and even followed by a moisturiser after 10 minutes. In my case, another layer of moisturiser was a bit much but I did wake up to clear and noticeably plumper skin. The effects seemed to last most of the day, and I didn't have to apply my usual hydrating and firming products.