Sheet masks are getting popular by the day, and any girl who follows a skincare routine has surely heard of these babies. They’re basically made out of fabric that’s soaked in a serum and is designed to fit any face shape. The sheets usually come in bright and informative sealed packets. However, it’s important to not confuse them with facial masks. They’re poles apart! Facial masks have a paste-like texture and require a lot more care, time, and patience during application. Plus, you’ll need to wash your face with water after the mask hardens and dries. Sheet masks, on the other hand, are quick and easy to use. Curious to know more? Here’s everything you need to know about the skincare innovation that’s taken the beauty industry by storm:
Types
How To Apply A Sheet Mask
According To Skin Types
Benefits Of Sheet Masks
Best Buys
FAQ’s
How Many Types Of Sheet Masks Are There?
There are 8 popular types of sheet masks in the market (even Huda Kattan is a fan!), and each one of them is designed to treat different types of skin concerns. From basic fibre sheet masks to hydrogel ones, we’ve collated everything you need to know about these magical skincare products. Let’s check them out, shall we?
1. Hydrogel Sheet Masks
As compared to microfiber masks, hydrogel masks come in a sleeker material because they’re made with 100 percent skin-benefitting ingredients. They aren’t just cotton masks dipped in a serum. That’s one of the reasons why they’re easier to put on your face. Most of them come in two parts, one half to put on the upper portion of your face, and the other for the lower jaw region. Hydrogel masks not only cool the skin but also lock in more moisture than the average sheet mask.
2. Bio-Cellulose Masks
These sheet masks are made from all-natural fibre and good bacteria. Compared to other sheet masks, this one is gold! It’s made from premium quality ingredients, and the sheet sticks your skin without giving the serum a chance to evaporate and go to waste. Unlike hydrogel sheet masks, these aren’t prone to tearing since the fibre is stronger and doesn’t give way easily.
3. Microfiber Sheet Masks
These are the most common type of sheet masks available in the market. The fibre feels like cotton and the serum is packed with vitamins and botanical ingredients. Compared to other sheet masks, these are the most affordable. The downside of these masks is that they don’t stay firm on your face. You could be sitting in one place, minding your own business, and your mask will suddenly fall off.
4. Foil Sheet Masks
Foil sheet masks are one of the newest entrants in the sheet mask universe. The foil that covers the front layer of the mask to prevent serum from getting evaporated and wasted. From the time you open the packet till you use the mask, it’s bound to stay moist and firm on your skin throughout your face masking session.
5. Knit Sheet Mask
Knitted sheet masks are made from cotton. They’re heavier than any other sheet mask and are designed to deliver serum not only to the skin on your face but your neck too!
6. Charcoal Sheet Masks
The charcoal sheet is rare to find, but it’s amazing! The sheet is black in colour and as the name suggests, it’s enriched with charcoal. Since the sheet mask has detoxifying ingredients, your skin will look smoother and clearer after you remove this sheet mask.Thus charcoal sheet mask is really good for your skin.
Also Read What Is Face Sheet Mask & Its Benefits In Marathi
7. Bubbling Sheet Masks
Bubbling sheet masks don’t just look fascinating, there’s a lot of science that goes into making them as well. Each bubble sheet mask contains an ingredient called perfluorocarbons. Oxygen is later pumped into the sheet mask and the mask is then sealed carefully in a pressured packet. The moment you open the packet, the ingredients mix with air and form a thin layer of foam on top of the sheet mask. After you remove the sheet mask, you shouldn’t remove the foam from your skin. Instead, massage the product into your skin using circular motions and wash your face with lukewarm water later. Don’t forget to pat your skin dry once you’re done!
8. Ampoule Sheet Masks
The advantage of ampoule sheet masks is that you get double the treatment since you’re essentially using two ingredients. First, of course, is the ampoule itself or what you might call a serum, which you need to massage into your face. Second, is the sheet mask, which ensures the ampoule penetrates deep into your skin.
How To Apply A Sheet Mask?
You don’t need an occasion to slap on a face mask. The beauty about sheet masks is that you can wear one twice a week or every day, it’s your call. But here’s what you do need to remember: when applying a sheet mask, always make sure that you cleanse your face first. Next, use a toner to even out your skin. Finally, you can go ahead and apply the sheet mask. Start from the forehead and make your way down to the chin, making sure the mask is taut and there’s no creasing. Leave the mask on for about 15 to 20 minutes, that’s the amount of time any sheet mask needs to do its magic. And, if you’re worried about the sheet mask fitting your face shape, you don’t have to be because sheet masks come in a standard size and are designed to fit all face shapes.
What Are The Best Sheet Masks For Your Skin Type?
When it comes to picking the best sheet masks, always make sure the mask is ideal for your skin type and caters to what your skin needs. Each sheet mask is designed to address different skin concerns; whether it’s brightening, firming, acne, nourishing, soothing or moisturising, there are sheet masks for literally everything! Now, let’s start identifying skin type, shall we?
1. For Oily Skin
People with oily skin tend to avoid sheet masks because they assume the mask adds extra moisture that is unnecessary. That isn’t the case though. The sheet masks from Dear Packer Home Remedy are made with egg whites and lemons, which makes them ideal for your people with oily skin. Not only does it reduce excess sebum production, but it also leaves you with glowing, oil-free skin.
POPxo recommends: DearPacker Home Remedy Mask – Egg White + Lemon (Rs 100)
2. For Dry Skin
Sheet masks should be a skin care regular for people with dry skin. The Innisfree Skin Clinic Mask with hyaluronic acid is very effective for treating dry skin. Believe it or not but Hyaluronic acid is actually a humectant, a substance that is used to reduce the loss of moisture. In fact, our own skin cells actually produce hyaluronic acid in order to maintain moisture levels, but pollution, ageing and other factors cause those levels to dip. So, applying a hyaluronic acid sheet mask is actually a great way to pump the moisture back into your skin so that it looks hydrated and healthy.
POPxo recommends: Innisfree Skin Clinic Mask – Hyaluronic Acid (Rs 150)
3. For Skin That Needs A Quick Fix
If you’re getting ready for a big event or party and your face needs a little pick-me-up, then sheet masks can be a great option. The MaskerAide Pre-Party Prep Facial Sheet Mask has all the goodness of argan oil, orange peel oil, super fruit extract, rice extract, and honey, which pampers and primes your skin before you apply your makeup and get ready to go out.
POPxo recommends: MaskerAide Pre-Party Prep Facial Sheet Mask (Rs 279)
4. For Ageing Skin
No matter how old you are, it’s never too early to start using anti-ageing products that ensure your skin looks youthful and fresh all the time. And sheet masks are a great place to start, especially if you prize glowing skin. Whether you want to include them in your weekly beauty routine or use them once in a while, you should definitely give sheet masks a try. The Mondsub Anti-Wrinkle & Moisturizing Face Mask Sheet is enriched with plant extracts that work towards improving the look, and feel, of mature skin, and is perfect to tackle those pesky ageing problems.
POPxo recommends: MOND’SUB Anti-Wrinkle & Moisturizing Face Mask Sheet (Rs 499)
5. For Acne-Prone Skin
Sheet masks are also great to treat skin that is prone to breakouts. Charcoal, which is the hottest ingredient right now, removes impurities and toxins that are within, and on top of, the skin. Try Inatur’s Charcoal Facial Sheet Masks, which uses activated charcoal along with anise and basil oil to reduce sebum and control acne. The regular use of this mask will definitely help anyone fighting problematic acne.
POPxo recommends: Inatur Charcoal Facial Sheet Mask (Rs 85)
6. For Rough Skin
Skin that’s dull, is latent with dead skin cells, and hasn’t been pampered for a while needs some major exfoliation. Enter The Face Shop’s The Solution Smoothing Sheet Mask, which contains black willow bark extracts that help to gently scrub away dead cells, leaving you with fresh skin.
POPxo recommends: The Face Shop The Solution Smoothing Face Mask (Rs 150)
7. For Damaged Skin
Believe it or not, but if you’ve recently travelled to a cold place or to a humid beach spot, your skin has actually endured some serious damage. The exposure to the UV rays of the sun, dirt, and grime take a toll on our faces – which is why a good sheet mask is key. The MaskerAide Weather Warrior Facial Sheet Mask contains aloe vera, green tea, witch hazel, and argan oil, all of which help to soothe, and heal, your skin.
POPxo recommends: MaskerAide Weather Warrior Facial Sheet Mask (Rs 460)
8. For Sensitive Skin
There is no reason to stay away from sheet masks if you have sensitive skin. In fact, you should make them your best friend. Especially The Face Shop’s Real Nature Lotus Face Mask, which calms inflamed skin with its natural oils and extracts. This will be the hero product in your skincare regimen, we promise!
POPxo recommends: The Face Shop Real Nature Lotus Face Mask (Rs 100)
9. For All Skintypes
If you’re one of the lucky few women who’ve been blessed with perfectly healthy skin, you may believe that you don’t need sheet masks. But here’s the thing: sheet masks can actually enhance your already-gorgeous skin. Sheet masks that boost radiance, brighten or give you that goddess glow are perfect for you. Try The Face Shop Bio-Cell Brightening Face Mask, it gently soothes skin, and reduces the appearance of dark spots too.
POPxo recommends: The Face Shop Bio-Cell Brightening Face Mask (Rs 300)
If You Still Need Convincing To Try A Sheet Mask, Read The Benefits!
Sheet masks are comparatively cheaper as compared to your regular spas and facials. And since the serum is packed with minerals and vitamins, your skin is bound to feel softer, and smoother, after using a sheet mask. Unlike facial packs, which tend to dry out your skin, a sheet mask leaves your skin feeling moist and looking radiant.
If you’re looking for ONLY K-Beauty sheet masks! You should totally take a look at these.
It’s no secret that Korean women have amazing skin. And considering that, it’s no surprise that the world is obsessed with all things Korean, including K-Beauty sheet masks. But why do we love them? For starters, they’re a step towards beautiful skin, plus they come in adorable packaging. So, here are some of the best K-Beauty sheet masks you should bring home today!
Crushed Green Tea Leaves
In case you missed drinking your morning cup of green tea, don’t worry. You can totally put on this green tea sheet mask and make up for missing your morning cuppa. The best part is that the mask contains rich extracts and antioxidants, which are excellent when it comes to improving your skin’s overall texture. We promise that after using this mask, your skin will look hydrated, and feel baby soft.
Price: Rs 100. Buy it here.
Juicy Blueberries
We bet no one can resist the scent of fresh blueberries on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Which is why we present to you this lovely sheet mask! Since blueberries are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, and are a powerhouse of all good things, this mask is perfect for you if your skin lacks moisture and radiance. You’ve got to try it to believe it.
Price. Rs 100. Buy it here.
Bubble Charcoal
If your skin is sensitive and prone to acne, you totally must give this charcoal sheet mask a shot. Enriched with anise oil, basil oil, and charcoal powder, this mask does a fab job at absorbing oil and preventing acne. Plus, for the price, it’s a steal!
Price: Rs 294. Buy it here
Gooey, Sticky Honey
This face mask isn’t your ordinary face mask. The sheet contains honey from New Zealand’s Manuka plant, the best kind. And if that isn’t convincing enough, you should also know that it also contains green tea, orchids, Camilla leaves, and cactus juice. Washing your face after using the mask will ensure that your skin looks fresh and stays soft.
Price: Rs 100. Buy it here
Natural Snail Mucus
Who would have ever thought snail mucus would be the magic ingredient your skin needs, right? Well, it is! To use this mask, simply wash your face and use a toner to cleanse your pores. Remove the sheet and gently spread it evenly over the entire face. Leave it on for about 20-30 minutes and then wipe your skin with a hot, damp towel.
Price: Rs 925. Buy it here.
Red, Red Wine
Didn’t we tell you that Korean beauty sheets masks have the coolest ingredients EVER? This mask happens to be the best thing yet if you’re a red wine lover! It has real wine extracts and a water-based essence that help purify the skin.
Price: Rs 1,040. Buy it here.
The Berry Feast
Berries are not only yummy for your tummy, but they’re also delicious for your skin! Loaded with extracts from green tea, bearberries, and mulberries, your skin is going to be in for a treat with this mask. 30 minutes is enough to give your skin the nourishment it deserves.
Price: Rs 351. Buy it here.
Mother Of Pearls
Downed too many shots last night? No wonder your skin looks dry, tired, and wrinkled. And that’s why you need this pearl sheet mask in your life ASAP. It’ll help keep your skin moist, soft, and nourished. Did we mention that the mask will also protect your skin from pollution and the sun’s harmful rays? It’s amazing.
Price: Rs 200. Buy it here.
These Are Also Some Of The Best Buys For A Cheaper Price
In case you’re on a tight budget, but still, crave more variety, we’ve found more sheet mask combos for you. These affordable sheet masks are a mix of Indian and Korean brands and they’re perfect to use on days you’re feeling lazy and aren’t in the mood to make a mask from scratch. Let’s be real, no one wants to do much on a Sunday, you’d rather slap on a face mask that doesn’t interrupt your movie marathon. Which is why only sheet masks make the cut. And the ones mentioned here aren’t just inexpensive, they also moisturise and nourish skin at the same time! Happy masking.
Garnier Skin Naturals Light Complete Serum Mask
This range has three sheet masks – this one is the best from the lot. It’s loaded with lemon extracts and vitamin C that helps to brighten skin and reduce dark spots. Your face will glow like a bulb after removing this sheet mask.
Price: Rs 198 for 2. Buy it here.
It’s Skin The Fresh Mask Sheet – Tea Tree
For women who have acne-prone or oily skin, a tea tree mask is the best thing you can do for yourself. It softens, nourishes, and hydrates the skin too. Put on the sheet mask, leave it on for 15 minutes, and say hello to gorgeous skin!
Price: Rs 299 for 2. Buy it here.
Pascucci Argan Good Face Eco Mask Sheet
If you’ve never used an Argan sheet mask before, which is quite likely, let this be your first experience! The vitamin E and fatty acids in this mask heal your skin and treat any pimples, scars or spots you might have.
Price: Rs 300 for 3. Buy it here.
Innisfree My Real Squeeze Mask – Tomato
Has your skin been feeling dull and tired lately? You need tomatoes in your life! This squeeze mask is next level awesome. It’ll leave your skin feeling cool, fresh, and moist. Try it to believe it!
Price: Rs 100. Buy it here.
O3+ Plunge Radiance Face Mask Vitamin C
Ask anyone and they’ll tell you how amazing this sheet mask is. It’s designed to make your skin glow since it’s packed with multivitamins. The best part is that it’s free of parabens and suits all skin types.
Price: Rs 122. Buy it here.
The Face Shop Real Nature Calendula Face Mask
How often do you find a calendula face mask, right? This one is rare and totally worth the money. And the fact that it gets rid of dead skin cells, nourishes skin, and keeps it supple all day long is what makes this a must-buy.
Price: Rs 100. Buy it here.
BeauuGreen Essence Mask
It’s raining oranges, ladies! This eco-friendly sheet mask smells so delicious, you just want to eat it. While it cleanses your face, the mask also keeps your face hydrated for long hours.
Price: Rs 100. Buy it here.
What are some of the most common questions people ask about sheet masks?
1. Is there a limit to how many sheet masks you can use in a week?
Not really. You can use sheet masks as many times as you want during the week. Thrice a week or maybe even once a day if you’re religious and loyal to your skincare routine.
2. Is it possible to reuse sheet masks?
No. They’re a one time, one use kind of product. Usually the first time you apply a sheet mask, most of the serum has already been absorbed into your skin. So, it’s best to chuck it and use a brand new one the next time. Plus, it’s more hygienic, and the chances of bacteria and germs settling on your skin are slim.
3. Should I leave a sheet mask on for the whole night?
Sheet masks last for only 20 minutes. Wearing it overnight can cause dust and dirt to settle on the moist sheet mask. The moment that happens, be prepared to wake up to acne the morning after.
4. What’s the shelf life of sheet masks?
The expiry date is mentioned at the bottom of every sheet mask. However, most sheet masks usually last for 1 to 3 years.
5. Will your skin get damaged if you leave it on for long hours?
Yes, it will. A lot of sheets masks are packed with chemicals as well. If chemicals stay on your skin for too long, the residue can block your skin pores. This can lead to acne eventually.
MUST READ: Everything To Know About Pimples, Causes & Treatments
Images: Shutterstock
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This story was updated in January 2019.
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