Skincare Routine: Sheet Mask 101

History of sheet masks; it was claimed to be discovered by Parisian Women in 1857, where they used slices of beef to avoid signs of ageing and wrinkles. Fast forward to today, thanks to technological advancement, we don't have to put beef on our face to keep our skin looking hydrated and plump. Water-absorbing materials such as cotton are nowadays used to soak in ingredients-packed essence or serum called the sheet mask.

The obsession in Korea towards smooth glass-dewy-looking skin makes it the fastest and leading country to create advanced innovations in sheet masks. If you ever come and visit beauty drugstores in South Korea, you can see an aisle full of Korean sheet masks with different types of materials, essences and at ranging price points. It is believed that women in Korea use sheet masks every single day, and that's what keeps their skin looking young and hydrated.

With the ever-growing industry and innovation, it is not uncommon for us to feel overwhelmed by all the options and make you wonder what the differences are and which one will suit your skin type and concern best. You don't have to worry because we will give you an A-Z guide on sheet masks.

What do Sheet Masks do?

A sheet mask is like a pack of serum but better. Sheet masks are infused with hydrating and active ingredients, which will allow your skin to absorb moisture and actives better. The sheet prevents the water and the serum from evaporating into the air, making them more effective.

What do you have to take into consideration before getting yourself a sheet mask?

1. The materials of the sheet mask:

• Determines how long it is able to retain moisture.

• Determines how soft and comfortable it feels on your skin.

• Determines the price.

2. The ingredients of serum/essences liquid in the sheet mask:

• Determines which one is most suitable for your skin type and concern.

• It also determines the price. The more concentrated it is, the pricier it can get.

First, let’s talk about different type of sheet mask materials:

1. Cotton sheet mask

• Microfiber Sheet Mask

This is the most commonly used materials in a sheet mask. It feels similar to cotton and can be usually called cotton sheet masks. Their raw materials are pretty affordable, making them the cheapest and readily available option in the market. The materials feel thicker and able to hold a lot of the serum. They have a pretty good fit and absorption capability. However, it may not be the best out of all the other cotton-based options.

ABIB Gummy Sheet Mask Aqua Sticker	ABIB Gummy Sheet Mask Heartleaf Sticker	ABIB Gummy Sheet Mask Madecassoside Sticker	ABIB Gummy Sheet Mask Milk Sticker

• Tencel/Lyocell Sheet Mask

If you're worried about the waste from using a cotton sheet mask, Tencel is the way to go. Tencel is made of fibres that are biodegradable and naturally derived from trees. It is usually thicker and white and feels soft and silky on the skin. It is usually more expensive than a regular cotton sheet mask, but it can hold moisture a lot better and for a more extended period.

GLOSOME All Day Glow Solution Tencel Mask	BENTON Aloe Soothing Mask Pack

• Cupra/Bemlises Sheet Mask

A cotton-derived material from short fibres of raw cotton. It is softer and thinner than regular cotton sheet mask materials. It allows better moisture retention and prevents the essence from dripping down, and it is also a more expensive option from the cotton department. This type of materials has almost the same quality in terms of moisture absorption and retention as the microfiber sheet mask.

HELLO SKIN Jumiso Chewy-Elasticity Mask	HELLO SKIN Jumiso Whoa Soothing Mask	OKA Buckle Up the Pore Sheet Mask	OKA Shower with Nourishing Care Sheet Mask

2. Biocellulose Sheet Mask

A mask that is made out of fibres from good bacteria. It feels like a thin layer of jelly and feels like a second skin. This sheet mask is very durable, able to retain moisture, adheres pretty well, making it the best option if you like to multitask while using your sheet mask. You don't have to worry about it falling and dripping essence all over. Moreover, biocellulose masks are biodegradable and can be your other eco-friendly option. However, it also does come with a price; this type of sheet mask is usually retailed at a higher price point.

LEADERS Daily Wonders Bye,bye Impurities Mask	LEADERS Daily Wonders Relax It's Zen Time Mask	LEADERS 7 Wonders Amazonian Acai Anti-pollution Mask	LEADERS 7 Wonders Tundra Cranberry Anti-aging Mask

3. Hydrogel Sheet Mask

Sheet mask on the go without scaring anyone? Hydrogel, it is! This sheet mask material is thin and almost transparent once applied to the skin. The hydrogel type doesn't usually absorb much moisture, although they can retain them longer than the cotton mask. It adheres pretty well and leaves you with an instant cooling sensation. However, be careful when applying them because they easily tear apart. Make sure not to scratch them with your fingernails.

4. Foil Sheet Mask

It makes you look like you came from the future. Foil masks consist of two layers, a cotton sheet mask on the inner layer and a foil mask on the outer layer. The cotton mask that touches your skin will provide and deliver essences deep down into your skin, while the foil prevents the mask from drying out as fast. The foil part gives more time for your skin to soak in all the skincare goodness that comes with your sheet mask. This will let your face shine, literally!

5. Rubber Sheet Mask

Rubber masks were developed to hydrate and soothe the skin for an instant pick-me-up. The hydrating rubber mask wraps around the skin to prevent active ingredients from evaporating, allowing for complete penetration to visibly improve the appearance of fine lines and pores and make skin look supple and dewy. The rubber mask is derived from algae and lowers skin temperature to cool and calm your overheated skin.

6. Clay and charcoal Sheet Masks

The black colour on clay or charcoal sheet masks usually contains microparticles of clay/charcoal in a low percentage. Depending on the percentage of the microparticles, they can absorb excess oils and sebum out of your face at the same time while you are adding hydration to your skin.

KLAIRS Midnight Blue Calming Sheet Mask

Each of the sheet mask materials come with their pros and cons, and it is not an easy task to identify the material used unless it is clearly stated on the packaging. Higher-quality materials that are more laborious during productions are more expensive, but it doesn't mean that you can't benefit from the more affordable options. It's a matter of preferences and your budget for sheet masks.

The next thing that you should be considering is the essences/serum in your sheet mask

You can get more than just hydration from a sheet mask (although anyone can benefit from extra hydration no matter what your skin type is). Knowing which sheet mask best fits your skin concern is the key to getting the most out of a sheet mask. Look at the ingredients list and see whether it is something that your skin is craving. 

The amount of active ingredients or type of extracts blended in the essence can also play a big part in the final price of the sheet mask. The more concentrated it is, the more expensive it may cost you. So make sure you're getting what you need when you want to splurge, especially for a special day.

Most liquid in sheet masks are referred to as essence but you may have found some claiming them as serum or lotion. This term is rather unregulated, but you may have found some claiming them as serum or lotion. This term is somewhat unregulated, but it may give you a better picture of the consistency of the liquid and the concentration of actives they are soaked in. The serum may have more concentrated actives and extracts in it, while the lotion may have a thicker consistency. But again, it is not definite but something you can keep in mind before buying your sheet mask.

Here are the benefits of some ingredients and a cheat sheet you can use for each of your skin concerns. Of course, this doesn't include all types of ingredients, but you can look through our skin library ingredient dictionary to find out more about other ingredients' benefit!

Brightening sheet mask (for Dull skin)

• Niacinamide (BLITHE Blue Zone Marine Intensive Sheet Mask – Sea Cucumber)
• Pearl extracts (KEEP COOL Shine Sheet Mask)
• Liquorice root extract (ABIB Mild Acidic pH Sheet Mask Heartleaf fit)
• Vitamin C (HELLO SKIN Jumiso Brightening mask)

Exfoliating sheet mask (for Pore-care)

• Salicylic acid
• AHA, Alpha Hydroxyl Acids (LEADERS 7 Wonders Mediterranean Olive Brightening Mask)
• Papaya extracts (LEADERS Break up with your EX-skin cells)

Hydrating sheet mask (for Dry/Dehydrated skin)

• Hyaluronic Acid (ABIB Mild Acidic pH Sheet Mask Aqua Fit)
• Sodium Hyaluronate (GLOSOME All Day Glow Solution Tencel Mask, ABIB Gummy Sheet Mask Heartleaf Fit)
• Bamboo extracts (KEEP COOL Soothe Mask)

Calming and soothing (for Sensitive and Irritated skin)

• Panthenol (ABIB Gummy Sheet Mask Aqua Sticker)
• Centella Asiatica (BENTON Goodbye Redness Centella Sheet Mask)
• Chamomile extracts (LEADERS Daily Wonders Break up with your EX-skin cells Mask)
• Honey (ABIB Mild Acidic pH Sheet Mask Honey fit)

Anti-ageing sheet mask (for Wrinkle)

• Snail mucin (BENTON Snail Bee High Content Mask)
• Adenosine (LEADERS Wrinkle Tox Skin Clinic Mask)
• Ginseng Root Extract (HELLO SKIN Jumiso Rich Nourishment Mask)
• Collagen (LEADERS Collagen Lifting Skin Renewal Mask)

Acne care sheet mask (for Acne-prone skin)

• Tea-tree oil (LEADERS Tea Tree Relaxing Skin Renewal Mask)
• Witch hazel (LEADERS Daily Wonders Break up with your EX-skin cells Mask, OKA Buckle up the Pore Sheet Mask)

How to use sheet masks properly

If you're still wondering how to put on a sheet mask the right way, we got you covered with this instructional video.

1. Use it on a cleansed face (either day or night). You can prep your skin with either serum/toner as well, depending on your preferences before application,

2. Open the packaging and fit it around the contours of your face,

3. Let the sheet mask hug your skin, and the ingredients soak into your skin for 10 – 30 minutes (depending on the instruction, don't forget to read them on the back of the packaging),

4. Set your timer and relax,

5. Remove the sheet mask and pat the remaining essence into your skin or other parts of your body that need extra hydration!

Librarian tip: Gua Sha ccan elevate your sheet mask experience to another level. You can use them while you have your sheet mask on. While the sheet mask provides enough slip, the Gua Sha helps to release muscle tension and improve fluid retention. Try it yourself!

DIY sheet mask [ How to make your own ]

Are you running short of sheet masks? Worry no more since all you need is a compressed sheet mask or regular cotton pads to create your DIY sheet mask. Soak the compressed sheet mask or cotton pads with your favourite essence/toner until thoroughly soaked. Put them on areas that need extra hydration. Leave it for 20 minutes, and then remove it, and you can move on to your other skincare routine steps! The sheet mask or cotton pad will help your toner or serum penetrate deeper into your skin and deliver the beneficial ingredients.

Frequently asked question about sheet masks:

When is the best time to use a sheet mask?

You can use a sheet mask anytime during the day, either morning or night, depending on your preferences. Remember to read the instructions to get a general idea of how long you can keep the mask on. It usually ranges between 10 – 30 minutes, with 20 minutes being the average time.

In terms of incorporating them into your skincare routine, you can use a sheet mask on either a cleansed bare face or after your serum/essences. If you don't think that the hydration is enough for your skin, you can top it off with a moisturiser to seal everything in and don't forget to use your sunscreen during the day.

Librarian Tip: If you have been experiencing dry or cakey makeup, no matter what moisturiser you've been layering on top of your skin, you may want to give sheet masks a try. It deeply hydrates your skin rather than layering the surface of your skin. Many makeup artists have been applying sheet masks to prep supermodels skin before their photoshoot to prevent caking which accentuates fine lines and texture.

How often should you use a Sheet Mask?

With the exception of exfoliating sheet masks, that contain chemical exfoliators, you can use other sheet masks daily. It's just like a serum in a sheet form! What's even better is that they let your skin get the most out of it by preventing the good stuff from evaporating and providing extra moisture on your skin. Glossy skin is just a sheet away.

For exfoliating sheet masks, you can use them one to two times a week. Remember to moisturise afterwards and don't put them on top of other exfoliating products.

Do you have to use other essences or other toners before using a sheet mask?

There are two things that you should consider:

1. The active ingredients and purpose of each serum and sheet mask you’re putting in one routine. It greatly depends on the type of serum or essence you incorporate them with. If they have different actives targeting different skin concerns on your skin, you can layer them on top of other serum/essences.

Example: Serum for brightening and sheet mask for hydration, vice versa

2. The essence thickness and finish that you prefer. If you think that the essence in your sheet mask is not hydrating enough, you can put them on top of other products for a boost of hydration. However, when you're using a sheet mask with a creamy texture, to begin with, we do not recommend you to layer them on top of many different things, or it may leave your skin feeling tacky.

Can I reuse a Sheet Mask?

Unfortunately, no. A sheet mask, in general, does not contain as many preservatives in comparison to other products in the market since they are formulated for one-time use. You may be wondering, what can you do with the leftover essence in the packet? Feel free to pat the remaining essence on your face or any other part of your body that needs extra care and hydration. You can keep the serum and apply it the next day but make sure to not leave it for too long until the next application. Ensure the texture, colour, and scent hasn't changed when you're using the essence on the following day. Exposing them to the air may change the effectiveness of the actives, and it may go bad without you even noticing.

Can you store sheet masks in the fridge?

Yes! You can definitely store in the fridge if you want to. Or you can just put them in the fridge 20 minutes before use to make your sheet masks more cooling, and it will help bring your skin temperature down. Who doesn't love a cold and chilly hug right after a long tiring day, right?

How long does it take for a sheet mask to expire?

A sheet mask generally lasts for 36 months (3 years) from the production day. Don't forget to check the date of expiry of your sheet mask before you use them. It is usually printed or embossed at the back and bottom part of the packaging as EXPYYYY/MM/DD or YYYY/MM/DD 까지, which means "until".

Is it okay to put on a sheet mask while you are in an aeroplane?

We all know that air in an aeroplane is super dry, and it can stress out your skin a little too much, hence the dullness and flaky skin once you are off the aeroplane. That's why some people like to use a sheet mask in the aeroplane since they are super convenient and it can replenish the water content on your skin. Remember that just a sheet mask may not be enough due to the extreme conditions. You should make sure that you seal all the moisture in with another occlusive and creamier moisturiser.

Takeaway: There's a sheet mask for everyone, no matter your skin type and concern. You just have to take that extra step to determine which ingredients and sheet mask type suit you most. Skin library is a UK online retailer based in London and ships worldwide. We curated some of the best K-beauty sheet masks on the market that can do more than just hydrating your skin. What is your favourite sheet mask, and how do you like to use it?

- By Claudia Christin (@funskincare)

MBBS, Ph.D. (Dermatology)