Sheet masks have been taking the skincare world by storm. But in reality sheet masks aren’t anything new – in fact, beauty aficionados in Korea probably think we’re all way behind!

The question you may be asking is what makes sheet masks so good, and why is everyone going weak at the knees for them? Well, it’s no secret that these portable packets pack a punch and will help to combat a plethora of skin concerns. From hydration to enhancing radiance, sheet masks may well be the skincare solution you’ve been looking for.

So, what are they? Sheet masks are cotton or paper cloths saturated in skin-loving ingredients that you keep on your skin for anywhere between 10-15 minutes. Despite their ability to make you look somewhat scary, sheet masks are a great way to get instant results, giving your skin instant moisture, plumpness and plenty of other results.

Despite sheet masks coming in one standard face size, the product inside won’t be for everyone. Just like all skincare, they’ll always be tailored towards a certain skin type or concern, so finding the right one for you is key to getting great results. Whether you want to rehydrate, plump, firm or add a little radiance to your complexion, there’s sure to be a sheet mask for you. All you need to do is find your perfect match, and I have a handful of gems to share…

To Hydrate

If you’re looking to give your skin a boost of hydration, sheet masks are a great way to do it. The perfect sheet mask pick for skin in need of moisture would be the GIVENCHY Hydra Sparking Fresh & Fast Masks, a travel-friendly pack of 14 masks that pack a thirst-quenching punch. At first you’d be forgiven for thinking that the packet is full of face wipes, but hidden inside are high-performance sheet masks that help to smooth, brighten and rejuvenate the complexion. Perfect for when you’re on the go, you pull out a face mask, pop it on for 10 minutes and then lift away to reveal a more luminous, healthy-looking complexion.

To Brighten

Whether you’re prepping for a night out or a big meeting at work, an infusion of radiance could be just want your skin needs. If you’re looking to restore your skin’s glow the Nuxe Splendieuse Anti-Dark Spot Perfecting Mask is just the ticket. The soft cloth mask features Splendieuse anti-dark spot action, white crocus, vitamin C and porcelain rose, which all work together to enhance radiance and even-out the complexion. If perfecting your over all base is at the top of your agenda then this 10-minute wonder will be your new best friend.

To Plump

There’s nothing better than plump, healthy-looking skin and the Shiseido Benefiance Pure Retinol Intensive Revitalising Face Mask will help you get just that. If your main skin concern is lack of density and first signs of ageing then this pampering treatment will help your skin to bounce back. The two-part sheet mask is enriched with an anti-ageing Pure Liquid Retinol Delivery System, sea botanical Chlorella and high-tech amino acid, Hydroxyproline. And all you have to do to reap their benefits is sit back and relax for 15 minutes – it sounds like a done deal to me.

Quick Tips

1. They’re Not A Replacement
Sure, sheet masks seem like the perfect pampering product but that doesn’t mean you should leave your other skincare in the drawer! I like to think of sheet masks as an addition rather than a replacement. Also, don’t forget about your serum just because you’ve used a sheet mask; they both do very different things so you should continue your routine as normal. Just pop in a sheet mask in here and there as a treat to your skin.

2. There’s No Need to Rinse
The fact that sheet masks are referred to as masks can often throw us off. It feels against our nature to not wash off a face mask, but don’t do it – you’ll lose all that goodness! Once you’ve worn your sheet mask for the required time, peel it off and massage the excess product into the skin. Some sheet masks explain that you can wipe away any excess, but I say don’t waste even a little bit! Massaging in the excess product will ensure you get the most from your sheet mask.

3. Less is More
There’s a big craze making the rounds in the skincare world about using a sheet mask twice a day. In my opinion this is excessive, not only can it become an expensive habit, it can also be a bit much for your skin. Over doing it on the skincare front can be as bad as not doing anything at all, remember that your skin has a threshold, so don’t overdo it. I would reserve sheet masks for 1-2 times a week, or when your skin is really calling out for extra targeted care.

Over to you!

Are sheet masks a new staple in your skincare stash? Comment below or tweet us @Escentual!