Sheet Masks Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

It’s starting to become harder to remember a time when sheet masks weren’t a strong staple in almost everyone’s skincare regime. For years it was the sheet mask’s sister, the face mask, who reigned supreme. But considering everything we know about sheet masks, does anyone really know what a sheet mask is?

The history of the sheet mask

Back in England during the 18^th century, a mask was invented by Madame Rowley, the first “face glove” a mask which was beneficial for anyone who wanted to ‘bleach, purify and preserve the complexion’ of the skin. Celebrities of the time loved to use it and would happily strap the face glove to their heads with the uncomfortable device which accompanied the mask. They would then sleep in it and wake up rejuvenated. That is until it was realised that due to the lack of holes in the mask, breathing was a bit of a challenge and as mortality started to rise, so came the end of the ‘face glove’ and it was quickly forgotten about. Fast forward to 2015 and the latest Korean skincare obsession landed on our shores. South Korean beauty 15 step skincare is notorious for being the best regime on the globe, but for us Europeans, we simply consider ourselves to be too strapped for time. However, with SoKo (as the cool kids call it) beauty comes the sheet mask, and we have all been obsessed ever since.

Why are face sheet masks so popular?

Given the fact that the benefits of using a sheet mask are plentiful, the fact Instagram is strewn with selfie after selfie of celebrities wearing the mask speaks volumes of it’s popularity. For if celebrities are doing it, no doubting the rest of us will follow suit. The fact the entire procedure of using a sheet mask is so easy, giving you results and boost in nourishment without having to lift a finger. It is important to remember that sheet masks in no way replace the use of your regular skincare, but does add a fabulous little addition!

What is a sheet mask?

A sheet mask is basically a sheet of fabric, cut into the shape of a face, made from a natural fibre, be it cotton, coconut pulp or cellulose. The fabric is soaked in an intense serum containing lots of ingredients and vitamins for the skin. It has holes for the nose, eyes and mouth and you place it into the skin pushing the sheet around your features to ensure it stays in place. The sheet acts as a barrier and protects the skin from any outside aggressors as it works on restoring your face to the best it can be. Once you remove the sheet mask you can always use the excess serum found in the bottom of the packet for your décolletage and neck, as well as dry areas like your knees and elbows.

The Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology did some great research on the different types of sheet masks, from bubbling, to knit cotton, foil, bio-cellulose, hydrogel and plenty of others to truly define the qualities and negatives of each, which I recommend having a read of.

What’s the difference between sheet masks and face masks?

Sheet masks are made from natural fibres soaked in serums packed with antioxidants and moisturising formulas of hyaluronic acids that help treat skin concerns such as dehydration, blemishes and even the signs of ageing. The sheet applied the face and then discarded after 15-30 minutes. Face masks are a more of a cream based product with clay usually being the main component. Face masks also help with possible skin concerns and are applied all over the face and left to dry, then washed away with water.  Although sheet masks are terrific at adding hydration and moisture to the skin, if you are after a deep cleanse feel and exfoliation the best product for you would be a cream face mask.

What are the main benefits of using a sheet mask?

As previously mentioned, deep cleansing and exfoliation are not the benefits of using a sheet mask. However, with the sheet full of a richly formulated serum that will be locked into the skin due to the sheet mask material preventing any ingredient being evaporated. Sheet masks are supreme with the hydration they offer. You skin is left look bright, moisturised and look youthful and plumped. Perfect for all skin types, especially those who suffer with dehydration.

What ingredients do you usually get inside a sheet mask?

The beauty of this Korean skincare staple is that you are able to find a mask with an enormous amount of ingredients in it. From vitamins, natural oils, natural botanicals and acids that your skin adores. The chose is endless and so the fun part is finding the right sheet mask for you and your skin’s needs!

What ingredients should I avoid in a sheet mask?

Considering the ingredients found in sheet masks you will find your skin type will determine which sheets work best for you. There is a amount of preservatives found in sheet masks to stop the masks from growing mould. This is why it is best not to use a sheet mask if it is past it’s use by date. Other ingredients could also be natural oils you’re skin reacts to as well as perfume and fragrance. These are all displayed at the back of packet so worth taking a look if you are concerned.

What should I know about sheet masks if I have sensitive skin?

Your skin type is an important factor to remember when trying out a sheet mask. If your skin is sensitive it is best to choose a sheet mask that is fragrance free as your skin could have a reaction to the perfume. If you have an allergy to certain botanicals and natural oils, it is best to avoid masks that contain those ingredients. The best option to have if your skin is extremely sensitive and reacts easily to products is to ask your GP or Dermatologist for their professional advice in which sheet mask to try.

How does a sheet mask fit into my skincare regime?

The great thing about a sheet mask is that it can fit into your skincare regime in any way. To see the best results you can use a sheet mask about three times a week. This can be during the evening, at the weekends or even the mornings. If you are after fabulous results it is easy to figure out when during your regime you can fit in the time for a mask. If you dedicated to your skincare regime then adding in a mask won’t be too much bother for you. Popping one on of an evening will be an extra boost of hydration whilst you watch your favourite television programme. If you have a more low maintenance skincare routine sheet mask still deliver results even using a mask once in a while will be great for your skin. However you can always wear a sheet mask whilst you take a shower and take a two birds with one stone approach.

Can you wear a sheet mask in the shower?

As mentioned previously, using a sheet mask in the shower is a simple and effective way of really getting the most out of the product. The moisture you will experience once in the shower will be remarkable. The heat and steam from the shower will open your pores making the skin more receptible to the serum of the mask and leave it super invigorated and hydrated. It can be tricky to keep your chin up away from the water, but it will be worth the extra effort. Another option for you to try is a bio cellulose mask, this type of mask stick to the skin, stays put and doesn’t absorb any water, the perfect shower time companion!

Why are bio cellulose sheet masks so good?

Bio cellulose masks are a made slightly different to it’s paper counterpart, mainly due to the fact it is made from a form of bacteria, sounds repulsive, but it isn’t as bad as it sounds. The purified bacteria reacts with glucose and produces the cellulose, therefore making the mask material. The mask sits snuggly on the face and stops the ingredients from evaporating and drying out the mask too quickly. Due to the fact the material absorbency for the serum is considerably better than the paper sheet masks also allows it to deliver a higher quantity and quality of the ingredients. Admittedly the bio cellulose masks are more expensive to buy, but the performance of the product speaks for itself and is worth the investment! 

How can I use sheet masks in an eco-friendly way?

Admittedly sheet masks of all masks are the most difficult to make eco-friendly, however it isn’t impossible. A couple of ways to make your sheet mask more eco-friendly is to firstly purchase the masks in bulk. Packets containing more masks in result in less packaging over all. As for recycling the used masks the sheet itself is made from natural bio-degradable material and so will be a welcome addition to a compos pot you may have in your garden! You can always look into the brand and see if they produce the packaging in recycled materials.

So there you have it, everything you need to know about the SoKo craze that’s taking over, one sheet clad selfie at a time!