Applying and discarding layer masks

When you have finished creating a layer mask, you can either apply the mask and make the changes permanent or discard the mask without applying changes. Because layer masks are stored as alpha channels, applying and discarding layer masks can help reduce file size. (See Storing masks in alpha channels.)

To apply or discard a layer mask:

1. Click the layer mask thumbnail in the Layers palette.
2. To remove the layer mask and make changes permanent, click the Trash button at the bottom of the Layers palette, then click Apply (Photoshop) or Yes (ImageReady).
3. To remove the layer mask without applying the changes, click the trash button at the bottom of the Layers palette, then click Discard (Photoshop) or No (ImageReady).

You can also apply or discard layer masks using the Layer menu.