This blog post is dedicated to one of social media’s biggest trends of the past few years: face masks. I’ll admit I have tried, and own a few myself. I am just not sure they’re effective, or if I’m even using them properly. Sound kinda dumb? I know, but hear me out. When I first purchased these it seemed like the ideal and suggested way to use them was a way to pamper myself a bit before bed. And my skin would look better after I peeled it off, I must admit. But now the selection of them is overwhelming, and to be blunt, out of hand. Butt masks?! Really… c’mon ladies & gents, respect yourself a little please.

Sheet Masks: the most popular, and they come in all shapes and sizes for any concern you may (or may not) have. They range in price and every brand seems to have a version of one these days. Sephora’s range of these has expanded exponentially. The most important thing you need to know about any sheet mask, ever: they are a piece of material drenched (super concentrated) in a Serum. They’re individually packaged and are 1-time use. The amount of time you leave them on ranges quite a bit as well. But keep in mind that the Serum in these masks is actually often something you can buy in a bottle as well…it’s simply the application that is different. Perfect example: Lancôme Advanced Génifique Hydrogel Melting Sheet Mask, one of my personal favorites. This is a fantastic one for a surge of moisture, but it even tells you on the packaging it is a loaded version of Advanced Génifique Serum, which you can buy separately. It’s also worth mentioning that the main active ingredient is the 3rd one listed on the package, which is a very good sign that it is worth the $15. Another favorite of mine is Tatcha’s Luminous Dewy Skin Sheet Mask, which is so much better than the Dewy Skin Mist, which I think is total crap (side note).

Tip: Instead of using a sheet mask at night, find a few extra minutes to use it in the A.M. Before you apply your makeup. Your skin will be fresh, plump, and glowy, the perfect canvas for a flawless makeup application!

Where did they come from? Sheet masks originated from Japan and South Korea, by now you’ve heard of “K beauty”. From the recent study conduct by NPD Group in the USA, the sale of masks increased by about 60%, overwhelming other categories in the skincare business. Told you it was a big trend.  

Why should you care? Sheet masks are a great alternative to a spa treatment…in 10-30 minutes at home. They’re a great way to get your skin to absorb some good ingredients, instead of your daily serum application. Many masks contain butylene glycol, which acts as a delivery agent and solvent, and allows your skin to absorb more of the other ingredients They serve a different function than paste-type masks which I will get into in a second. When it comes to choosing one that serves your purpose, choose wisely and if you haven’t read my previous blog posts, CHECK THE LABEL. Low quality masks with bad ingredients won’t absorb into your skin at all so it’s like throwing your money in the trash in the literal sense. Sephora Collection alone makes 49 different masks…what. Stop. My point is not to hate on Sephora, it’s to stop people from being gimmicked out of their hard earned money!! (because I have been and it’s a lousy feeling).

Mud/Clay Masks:

When you smear a muddy texture across your face, what exactly are you doing? According to dermatologists, you’re healing your skin. “Mud is a skin-healing agent and is water-based, so the product in mask form is more hydrating than drying. It is good for most skin types as it is not as drying as a clay mask. The minerals in the mud can also act as good exfoliators.” If you have dry skin and want a deep clean, you can choose a mud rather than clay mask to not dehydrate your skin, and it’s a great deep-cleanser for all skin types. I still get the occasional breakout, and the Cold Plunge Pore Mask is a go-to. A major favorite for texture, but comes with a hefty but worth every penny price tag is Drunk Elephant Sukari Babyfacial. The name says it all and since it is not a sheet mask, it’s something you’ll get a lot of use from.

If you’re tired of hearing it, I’m sorry but it applies to every aspect of skincare…everyone is different! Be mindful of what you’re looking for your mask to do for you. And please read the ingredients! If the active ingredients are low on the list, your skin won’t absorb them at all.