By Mia Wang
Banner News Staff Writer
Sheet masks are the current hot trend in beauty industry. As a skincare enthusiast, I have been using them for more than 6 years. However, I am neither a dermatologist nor an esthetician. All the content below is based on my own experiences and opinion. Feel free to consult with doctors before trying any new skincare products.
1.What are sheet masks?
Sheet masks are face-shaped sheet fabrics soaked in nutrition-packed solution. The sheet is made up of variety of materials including papers, fibers or gels. These sheet masks are different from paste masks. You only need to apply, take off or pat in extra serum instead of washing the paste masks off after applying them. Each sheet mask is generally used once and it is individually packaged, making them fast, convenient, and easy to use.
2.Why sheet masks?
The cold season is upon us, moisturizing should be the first priority in our skincare routine. Sheet masks carry a wealth of essence, especially moisturizing sheet masks, and the results are instant. Traditional paste masks are just not as effective. Even a gel-like paste mask, there is not a lot of moisture inside. Sheet masks generally can be deposited on the face for 15-20 minutes, then massage the remaining essence until absorbed. No need to rinse, so much more convenient than paste masks.
3.Can sheet masks save my “desert skin”?
Although sheet masks are the better choice for moisturizing, sheet masks alone cannot improve skin moisture all together. Applying sheet masks can immediately increase the moisture content of the skin when used three days in a row; the skin’s moisture content can be maintained at a stable and healthy level. However, there are many reasons for dehydration and dry skin. Sheet masks are best at solving the problems due to changes in the weather or lifestyle, resulting in temporary shortage of moisture in the skin. For instance, travel to a dryer place, a long-distance flight, a bad night of sleep. For people with dehydrated skin, moisturizing sheet masks alone are not enough; you need to consider changing your lifestyle and daily skincare products.
4.Can I sheet-mask every day?
As long as standard companies produce the sheet masks, and there are no clear instructions about not using daily, applying sheet masks every day is not a big problem. But it is not recommended, not because of “irritation”, but because it is “not necessary.” Another tip: don’t change sheet masks so often. You will have a better result, if you keep using the same ones, until they run out.
5.Should I use other skincare products after sheet masking?
Sheet masks can greatly enhance the absorption of skin; they are primer to promote penetration for the following skincare ingredients. After applying sheet masks, serums and face creams can be absorbed much quicker and deeper. The best time to apply sheet masks is right after showering or bathing, because at that time, the skin is soft and moist and the whole body is extremely relaxed.
6.Does exfoliation help increase sheet masks’ absorption.
Yes! However, there is no need to exfoliate right before sheet masks. If the intensity of exfoliation is too high, it can result skin scratches, then applying sheet masks may be irritating.
7.Should I choose sheet masks that have the most liquid in them?
“Sheet masks fluid” is not “pure face serum”. To judge a sheet mask, mainly rely on the formula, not the fluid amount. Different brands have different sheet masks liquid design, the concentration of effective ingredients are also not the same. Therefore, choosing brands that have their own developing team is the most secure way.
Here are my sheet masks recommendations. I have used and repurchased all of them personally.
(photo credit: ulta.com, sephora.com)