Sheet Masks: Are They Really of Any Benefit?

When it comes to sheet masks, there are many different types to address almost any skin concern. You may choose from paper, cotton, gel, bamboo, bio-cellulose, and more. Masks can serve the purpose of targeting a specific skin issue, whether it be dryness, oiliness, anti-aging, acne, or detoxification and they are even great to just put one in a relaxing mood. But do they actually work?

Sheet masks were first developed in Korea, where skin care is a VERY serious matter! The average Korean woman uses 10 products daily to maintain a flawless, porcelain-like complexion. It has taken Americans a while to catch on and understand the benefits of a complete skin care routine (sheet masks being an essential part of this), but eventually we did, and sheet masks really became popular stateside about 2-3 years ago.

The function of a sheet mask is very simple; deliver concentrated ingredients and seal those ingredients deep into the skin by using a mask.  By applying serum or cream and adding a sheet mask over the skin, it enables the serums and creams to be driven into the deeper levels of the epidermis and dermis. The result? You will achieve hydrated, smooth and radiant, clearer skin.

An insider tip to make the most of your mask experience once it has been removed is to remember to moisturize the skin immediately.  Once the masks are removed, rub any leftover serums or liquids into the skin that are left behind. Do not wash your face! Once the sheet mask is removed, the evaporation process begins. You should immediately use a moisturizer containing similar ingredients to the mask or ingredients similar to the purpose of the mask i.e. hydrating, moisturizing, anti-aging, anti-puffiness, anti-inflammatory, anti-acne and so on. For Instance, if you are using a vitamin C mask, apply a moisturizer with vitamin C. This applies to all masks. Reinforce what the mask does, with a follow-up of similar ingredients in a moisturizer or serum.

People always ask me if more expensive sheet masks are better than cheaper ones? It depends on the company and their overall pricing structure, and if they consider themselves luxury or mass market skin care. The more expensive sheet masks should contain premium ingredients, often of a pharmaceutical grade. However, I have seen similar masks to the ones we make being sold for $300, and I think that is ridiculous. That’s a company just trying to take advantage of potential misinformed customers. 

Some of the more expensive masks tend to be better fitting and made of materials that allow deeper penetration without drying out, but I think you should be able to find a very good mask way below $100. That is my personal opinion from being in this industry for 20 years.

How often should you use sheet masks? I tend to use them around 3 times per week, depending on my schedule. You may use them as many times per week as you wish, but always remember applying a mask is NOT a substitute for your normal skin care regimen. It is just a little boost of skin specific ingredients to enhance your normal routine.

What is the downside of masks? They are made for one type of face, and often that does not reflect all of us with our varied face shapes. They can be difficult to fit to the face, and without good adherence, a sheet mask cannot do its job. I find that after removing the mask from the package and unfolding, it is best to beginning fitting from the forehead, pressing gently to the temples. Next, fit the eyes and nose openings, followed by cheeks, mouth, and chin.  Always remember to pat gently for best adhesion. For the next 20 minutes, lie down and relax, after all this is a treat for the skin and spirit. Enjoy it!

Don’t forget to check out my Hard Night Good Morning Sheet Masks, including 24K Gold Anti-Aging, Charcoal Detoxifying, and Cooling Cryo masks on our website at www.hardnightgoodmorning.com. My personal favorite is the gold mask.  It makes my skin feel great and leaves it glowing and feeling fabulous!