ARE SHEET MASKS EFFECTIVE? EXPERTS WEIGH IN ON THIS VIRAL SKIN CARE TREATMENT
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Sheet masks can be messy — a process to unfold — and their effectiveness was bit confusing (at least for me). But after trying a sample from a recent beauty appointment, I started craving the extra hydration effects of these face-shaped fabrics.
For starters, sheet masks are mostly moisturizing and a great approach if you need an easy skin care routine. According to dermatologist Dr. Navin S. Arora, sheet masks definitely work (as long you find the right one for your skin type). "Sheet masks deliver active ingredients in a way that helps them sink into the skin more deeply, almost like a mini facial at home," adds Arora.
This viral Korean skin care product has become popular because of its simplicity and effectiveness in delivering hydration. But, with so many sheet masks on the market made from paper, thin fabric and even gel-like consistency, it's easy to feel overwhelmed with the options.
To find the best one, I asked three dermatologists for their top recommendations and what ingredients provide better results. Whether you're looking for a one-and-done solution to your nighttime routine or need to brighten up your complexion, editors and experts share their top favorites below.
Do sheet masks actually work?
Yes, sheet masks actually work! Dermatologist Dr. Asmi Berry says that sheet masks help boost hydration and deliver active ingredients in a way that locks them into the skin.
"Because they create an occlusive barrier, they help your skin absorb serums more effectively than just slapping them on. But they’re not miracle workers — if you’re hoping to erase wrinkles or cure acne overnight, they won’t do that. Think of them as a skin pick-me-up rather than a treatment," she says.
"They don’t really do anything more than moisturizing. Sometimes, this is what people want for their skin — so in that respect, it can work for moisturizing the skin," adds dermatologist Dr. Richard Bottiglione.
With that being said, you need to consider sheet masks as a short-term solution. Think of them as a mini at-home facials you can wear while multitasking and running other tasks.
"They’re packed with serums and other skin-benefitting ingredients that can provide a boost of hydration and soothe dehydrated or dull skin, giving skin a nice glow and waking up tired skin," says dermatologist Dr. Jeannette Graf.
The best sheet masks, recommended by experts
Hydrate instantly: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating 100% Hydrogel Mask
Hydro Boost Hydrating Hydrogel Mask
- Hydro Boost Hydrating Hydrogel Mask $3.49 at Amazon
- Hydro Boost Hydrating Hydrogel Mask $3.99 at Target
- Hydro Boost Hydrating Hydrogel Mask $4.99 at Ulta
Product Specs
Piece set: 1 | Benefits: To quench dry skin | Notable ingredients: Hyaluronic acid
Arora recommends this gel mask for its high hydration content. "This is a fan-favorite for hydration that feels like a drink of water for your skin. It’s simple, effective and works well for all skin types. My patients love how fresh and dewy their skin looks afterward."
Also, the mask holds up to 50% more of the essence due to its gel component.
Set to soothe: Image Skincare I Mask Hydrating Hydrogel
I Mask Hydrating Hydrogel Sheet Mask
- I Mask Hydrating Hydrogel Sheet Mask $11.00 at Image Skincare
- I Mask Hydrating Hydrogel Sheet Mask $10.00 at Amazon
Product Specs
Piece set: 1 | Benefits: Hydration for dehydrated skin | Notable ingredients: Hyaluronic acid and green tea extract
Graf likes this sheet mask because it "contains a combination of hydrating ingredients (hyaluronic acid) and soothing ingredients (green tea extract)." She continues, "The result is plumped and calmed skin that is smoother and more even in appearance."
Infused with vitamin C: Dr. Dennis Gross Vitamin C Lactic Biocellulose Brightening Treatment Mask
Vitamin C Lactic Biocellulose Brightening Treatment Mask
- Vitamin C Lactic Biocellulose Brightening Treatment Mask $12.00 at Dr. Dennis Gross
- Vitamin C Lactic Biocellulose Brightening Treatment Mask $12.00 at Bloomingdale's
Product Specs
Piece set: 1 | Benefits: Improves skin tone and redness | Notable ingredients: L-ascorbic acid, niacinamide, lactic acid and vitamin C
Berry says this mask "delivers niacinamide and vitamin C for a radiance boost while keeping skin plump with hyaluronic acid."
For sensitive skin: Dr.Jart+ Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturizing Face Mask
Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturizing Face Mask
- Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturizing Face Mask $10.00 at Amazon
- Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturizing Face Mask $10.00 at Sephora
- Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturizing Face Mask $10.00 at Dr.Jart+
Product Specs
Piece set: 1 | Benefits: Relieves tightness and boosts skin's barrier | Notable ingredients: Ceramide NP, panthenol and glycerin
This ultra-hydrating mask is ideal for those seeking to strengthen the moisture barrier. Arora says, "This is a favorite for anyone who has dry or sensitive skin. It helps repair and lock in moisture, and I get tons of feedback about how plump and hydrated skin feels afterward."
Cold sensation: Dr.Jart+ Cryo Rubber Face Mask
Cryo Rubber Face Mask with Hyaluronic Acid
- Cryo Rubber Face Mask with Hyaluronic Acid $16.00 at Dr.Jart+
- Cryo Rubber Face Mask with Hyaluronic Acid $16.00 at Amazon
- Cryo Rubber Face Mask with Hyaluronic Acid $16.00 at Sephora
Product Specs
Piece set: 1 | Benefits: Reduces skin temperature by 11°F | Notable ingredients: Hyaluronic acid
Berry recommends this brand because "the hyaluronic acid serum plus the rubber mask locks in moisture better than regular sheet masks." The mask is inspired by cryotherapy; It's ideal for those who experience dryness and redness and need a boost of hydration.
Glowing results: Tatcha Luminous Deep Hydration Lifting Mask
TATCHA Luminous Deep Hydration Lifting Mask
- TATCHA Luminous Deep Hydration Lifting Mask $25.00 at Amazon
- TATCHA Luminous Deep Hydration Lifting Mask $25.00 at Tatcha
Product Specs
Piece set: 1 | Benefits: Smooths fine lines | Notable ingredients: Hyaluronic acid
Arora suggests this sheet mask if you're looking for luxury and deep hydration. "Patients love how it leaves their skin looking dewy and smooth without feeling greasy. It’s like a facial in a packet," adds Arora. Besides the extra hydration, this mask is ideal for those who want a glowy complexion and lift their skin.
Tricks that work: Charlotte Tilbury Instant Magic Facial Dry Sheet Mask Set
Instant Magic Facial Dry Sheet Mask Set
Instant Magic Facial Dry Sheet Mask Set $80.00 at Charlotte Tilbury
Product Specs
Piece set: 4 | Benefits: Moisturizes and brightens up skin | Notable ingredients: Niacinamide, shea butter, peptide complex and sea fern extract
"This mask includes a combination of vitamins, floral extracts, peptides and oils to give the skin a noticeably dewier and refreshed appearance," says Graf. While the mask set is higher-priced, they combine a mix of ingredients that help nourish skin while delivering a youthful glow.
The best sheet masks, recommended by editors
Natural is key: Tonymoly I'm Real Avocado Nutrition Mask Sheet
I'm Real Avocado Nutrition Mask Sheet
- I'm Real Avocado Nutrition Mask Sheet $3.00 at Amazon
- I'm Real Avocado Nutrition Mask Sheet $3.75 at Ulta
Product Specs
Piece set: 1 | Benefits: Improves hydration | Notable ingredients: Mineral oil, biotin, vitamin E and more
Associate editor Shannon Garlin is an avo-cate for this mask. "I'm obsessed with this Korean beauty brand after visiting their store in Seoul. Theres a variety of sheet mask types depending on what you want to target, and I love the ones for dry skin! They're super hydrating and you really see instant results. My skin looks so plump after use," says Garlin.
Garlin previously shared how the mask helped improve the texture of her skin.
Hydrate always: BioRepublic Ultra Hydration Invisamask
Ultra Hydration Invisamask
Ultra Hydration Invisamask $3.99 at CVS Photo
Product Specs
Piece set: 1 | Benefits: Anti-aging, deep hydration and healthy glow | Notable ingredients: Hyaluronic acid
Associate editor Kamari Stewart says this mask is one of her favorites for the excess serum in the package. "They're affordable so they're something I would repurchase over and over, and they come in a bunch of different formulas so you can choose the one that fits your needs. I'm partial to the basic ultra hydration one because it leaves my skin feeling plump and refreshed," says Stewart.
Plus, they're easy to pack and put on during a flight, to get that extra hydration while flying.
Overnight success: Biodance Hydro Cera-nol Real Deep Mask
Hydro Cera-nol Real Deep Mask
Product Specs
Piece set: 4 | Benefits: Improves skin elasticity and sebum control | Notable ingredients: Collagen peptide, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide
Editor Vivien Moon says she likes this product despite the amount of time it requires to wear.
"I wore a few of these and it's fun to see how the product absorbs slowly into the skin. I also love that it isn't like a regular sheet mask that leaks (and feels like it takes a long time to just get on because of how much liquid is going everywhere). It doesn't fall off, either, so you can feel comfortable wearing it while watching TV," says Moon.
Garlin is also a fan of this mask and says, "If you opt to leave it on for the three to four recommended hours, it will dry on your face, so it feels really absorbent."
Unlike Garlin's experience, I did use the mask for three hours and my skin felt so hydrated afterward. I do recommend wearing it at night since the product has a thicker consistency than other masks — and the serum might not blend well with sunscreen.
Juicy complexion: ESW Beauty Raw Juice Cleanse Mask Set
Raw Juice Cleanse Mask Set
- Raw Juice Cleanse Mask Set $24.99 at Amazon
- Raw Juice Cleanse Mask Set $24.99 at Target
- Raw Juice Cleanse Mask Set $24.99 at ESW Beauty
Product Specs
Piece set: 5 | Benefits: Hydration | Notable ingredients: Coconut, activated charcoal and more
Production associate Audrey Ekman likes this set of masks for the pleasant and juicy scent. "These sheet masks from the clean beauty brand and small business ESW Beauty have been consistently in my skin care rotation for about a year now. I love how hydrating they are — they serve as a nice refresher for dull, dry skin, especially in the winter. They smell so good, too! Highly recommend for a mid-week pick-me-up or Sunday reset," she says.
The set comes with a variety of juice-inspired ingredients to help depuff and add some glow to your skin.
Skin pop: Loops Variety Hydrogel Face Mask
Variety Hydrogel Face Mask 5 Piece Set
- Variety Hydrogel Face Mask 5 Piece Set $30.00 at Ulta
- Variety Hydrogel Face Mask 5 Piece Set $30.00 at LOOPS
- Variety Hydrogel Face Mask 5 Piece Set $37.49 at Target
Product Specs
Piece set: 5 | Benefits: Won't clog pores | Ingredients: Aloe vera, honey extract, niacinamide and more
Ekman says she opts for these "bad boys" when she needs a bit of TLR and self care. "These are truly the crème de la crème of the sheet mask category, in my opinion. The two-piece mask design is genius — I have a small face and always feel like I’m drowning in droopy, oversized sheet masks, but these layer to fit perfectly on my face and they’re thick so they don’t slip or slide off," says Ekman.
"I recommend getting the variety set to see which ones you like best, but my personal favorite before an event or a big night is the pink ‘Double Take,’ It’s almost like a facial concentrated into a mask and makes my skin so glowy!"
Can all skin types benefit from sheet masks?
According to Berry, all skin types can benefit from sheet masks —but you need to look for one that works for your skin.
“For example, if you have sensitive skin, you want to avoid masks with alcohol, fragrance or strong exfoliants. And if you have oily or acne-prone skin, you want to avoid masks that are heavy or comedogenic,” she adds.
“On the other hand, those with dry or sensitive skin love masks with soothing ingredients like aloe or hyaluronic acid,” shares Arora.
If anti-aging is your main goal, Graf recommends “looking for a mask that is packed with collagen and peptides to plump the skin and help the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.”
Frequently asked questions
How often can I wear a sheet mask?According to Berry, sheet masks can be worn two to seven times in a week, while brightening masks should used once or twice a week to avoid irritation. Exfoliating masks should be used no more than once per week.
"I usually recommend about two to three times a week. Any more than that, and you run the risk of over-hydrating, or even irritating your skin with too many active ingredients," says Arora.
Do I use moisturizer or sunscreen after using a sheet mask?According to Berry, sheet masks should never replace a normal skin care routine. But you can use a moisturizer afterwards to seal in the hydration. "If your skin is on the dry side, then applying another cream on top is fine. Applying sunscreen is always recommended," says Bottiglione.
Since your skin is already in a hydrated state, you still want to lock in moisture. "I also recommend sunscreen (always!) because even though the mask can help with hydration, it won’t protect against UV damage," adds Arora.
What ingredients should you look for in sheet masks?Arora says it all depends what you're looking to target, but this is a good guide of ingredients to follow:
- Hyaluronic acid: Hyaluronic acid is "a go-to for anyone with dry or dehydrated skin. It pulls moisture into the skin, leaving it plump and hydrated.
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C is "ideal for brightening, especially for those with dull skin or post-acne marks."
- Niacinamide: Niacinamide is "great for calming redness or irritation — so popular with my patients who have sensitive skin."
- Collagen: "My patients who want to smooth out fine lines really love masks with collagen or peptides — they say it makes their skin feel firmer and more youthful."
- Tea tree oil: "Acne-prone patients love this one for its ability to help reduce blemishes without drying out their skin."
Additionally, Berry says, "If you are seeking hydration, look for hyaluronic acid, squalene or glycerin. For brightening, look for vitamin C, niacinamide or turmeric. For redness, look for aloe vera, centella asiatica or green tea. For anti-aging, look for peptides or collagen. For oily, acne-prone skin, look for tea tree oil."
How we chose
I, Jannely Espinal, asked dermatologists for their top recommendations sheet masks. I also considered editors' favorite products for this article and selected masks with specific ingredients that help with moisturizing, anti-aging benefits and more.
Meet the experts
- Dr. Asmi Berry is a NYC-based board-certified dermatologist focused on science, nutrition and integrative wisdom for healthy skin.
- Navin S. Arora is the founder of Borealis Dermatology, a place offering aesthetic, medical, surgical and spa services.
- Dr. Richard Bottiglione is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Dermatologist's Choice Skincare.
- Dr. Jeannette Graf is a board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mt. Sinai School of Medicine.
This article was originally published on TODAY.com
2025-02-05T22:52:45Z
