Sheet masks. The breakthrough genre that made #masking a verb comes with its own set of challenges. When to use a sheet mask? Which one to use? How to make it stay on the face? Do I rinse afterwards or not? What about moisturising afterwards – yes or now? Should I really #sheetmask everyday? Is pricier always better? Can I skip moisturiser if I use a hydrating sheet mask regularly? Are all sheet masks good?
Like traditional masks, different varieties solve different skin issues. So take a look at the ingredients and pick out exactly what you need:
✨ Dryness: The most hydrating sheet mask is one that contains hyaluronic acid, which helps skin retain more moisture. And skip anything with alcohol or irritating fragrances, which will further dry out your skin.
✨ Dullness: To bring back the glow, look for brightening ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide and pearl powder in your facial sheet mask
✨Sensitive or irritated skin: Anti-inflammatory ingredients like aloe vera and other soothing botanicals will help calm down your skin.
✨ Anti-aging: Opt for nutrient-rich masks, especially those which list collagen or vitamin B12 as a prime ingredient.
While sheet masks are a super-potent way of getting maximum skin benefits in minimum time, they are not perfect. Many of the generic versions contain chemicals that are damaging both for the skin and our overall health. Some to avoid: alcohol, parabens, synthetic dyes and mineral oil.
Sheet masks come in all forms, from paper and fiber to tin foil and bio-cellulose. Those made from “clingy” ingredients like hydrogel, coconut, sea kelp and bio-cellulose adhere to the skin most tightly, forming a tight seal and delivering the ingredients most effectively. They are also the easiest to apply, as they don’t keep slipping off the skin like the fiber and foil versions. Even if you’re going for fiber, try and make sure it’s unbleached and 100% cotton, to minimise toxic materials from touching your skin and leading to toxic issues.
To make a facial sheet mask adhere most effectively and sans air pockets, start applying it from the forehead, then line up with the eyes and work downwards towards the chin. But don’t stop there: for dull skin and anti-ageing benefits, lightly massage the sheet upwards to boost blood flow; for puffy skin, go downwards and outwards to encourage lymphatic drainage.
