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I’ve dealt with dry skin my entire life. For this reason, my skin care routine is stacked with every formula you can think of, from vitamin C serums to peptide creams to radiance-boosting oils that all promise to rejuvenate my skin. But even with an extensive daily skin care routine, a hydrating mask will always give me a boost whenever my skin is feeling extra thirsty.
Face masks are deeply nourishing moisturizers that you apply to give the skin an immediate surge of hydration. Typically applied after cleansing the skin, masks deeply penetrate the skin, infusing it with a blend of ingredients to plump and renew the skin. “Regular, consistent use may soften or smooth the skin, increasing hydration and enhancing overall texture,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Ife Rodney. “Some hydrating masks contain additional active ingredients to calm irritated skin or strengthen the skin’s barrier, protecting against moisture loss.”
Face masks can be an extremely beneficial addition to your overall skin routine. For a quick boost, sheet masks offer easy application and skin-loving ingredients to refresh the skin. Creamy overnight treatments penetrate the skin for lasting hydration and treat many skin concerns, from dryness to dark spots. “Hydrating masks are ideal for dry skin, helping to add much-needed moisture. People with oily skin can also benefit from using a mask,” says Rodney. “Oily skin becomes more balanced when adding the hydrating properties of a mask. Mature skin often lacks moisture, and hydrating masks can help diminish the appearance of fine lines and improve elasticity.”
So, if you want to ramp up your skincare routine with some extra nourishment, we spoke with experts, raided ELLE editors’ beauty stashes, and scoured the internet to bring you the 15 most hydrating face masks. See our picks below.
Pros
- Anitoxidant rich
Cons
- Pricey for the amount of masks included
This hydrating mask has a gel texture to soothe the skin. Infused with antioxidants, aloe, and pure gold technology, it allows for more hydration and penetration, treats wrinkles, and reduces signs of aging, such as crow's feet.
Size: 20 gel face masks
Skin type: Dry skin
Derm Institute ratings: 5/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “It's really important to me to do my nighttime skin care routine. This mask has made my everyday routine a bit more luxurious with its silky and hydrating texture. It applies smoothly to the skin and doesn't need to be washed off. Every time I use it, I wake up with glowy, hydrated skin.” —Tasha Nicole Smith, beauty assistant
Pros
- Quickly absorbs into the skin
Cons
- Not ideal for sensitive skin
If you're gearing up for your next vacation and want to skip the post-flight dry skin stage, this mask is the travel companion you need. The viral Jet Lag mask is the surge of hydration your skin craves after a busy day. With niacinamide, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid, a few uses brightens and plumps the skin. Even better, it can be used as a masque for a quick boost or even as a daily moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated all day, every day.
Size: 2.25 oz
Skin type: Normal, dry, combination, and oily skin
Sephora Rating: 4/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “As someone who avoids touching her face mid-flight (yuck, germs), I save this mask for my first night at the hotel when my skin is yearning for extreme nourishment and hydration post-flight. This mask uses skin care's big three—hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and niacinamide—to restore moisture, plump, and brighten.” —Nerisha Penrose, ELLE.com beauty commerce editor
Murad Cellular Hydration Repair Mask
Pros
- Great for mature skin
Cons
- Not ideal for acne-prone skin
After layering on exfoliants, serums, creams, and more, our skin care routines can feel a bit overwhelming. Sometimes, you just need to hit reset, which is where this overnight mask comes in. With a blend of hibiscus extract and bilberry seed oil, this mask treats your skin on a cellular level, penetrating deep into the skin to repair the barrier. Plus, its silky texture soothes the skin to combat dry irritation.
Size: 2.7 oz
Skin type: Normal, dry, combination, and oily skin
Sephora rating: 4.8/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “This mask is ultra hydrating and gentle. It has a light pleasant scent and goes on smooth with no greasy feel/residue. The mask feels weightless and I wake up with minimized texture/pores and glowing skin!”
Pros
- Helps minimize pores
Cons
- Some don't like the texture of the mask
Sheet masks are a hot commodity among beauty enthusiasts for their glass skin-like effect. This one, in particular, drenches your skin with a blend of ingredients, like the brand's Pitera Complex, which is packed with antioxidants, amino acids, and vitamins and minerals to deeply nourish the skin.
Size: six single-use sheet masks
Skin type: Normal, dry, dull, combination, and oily skin
SK-11 rating: 4.4/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “A number of nutrients, antioxidants, and vitamins complete SK-II's signature Pietra complex, and all of it is packed in its bestselling—and my all-time favorite—sheet masks. After back to back traveling, long days at work, or simply whenever I have downtime and want to treat my skin, this is the mask I turn to. My skin drinks up the solution and is instantly hydrated and more supple.” —Nerisha Penrose
Kiehl's Avocado Nourishing Hydration Mask
Pros
- Smooths uneven texture
Cons
- Thick texture
If one thing remains true, it's that avocado seems to be popping up in every other skin care product. In this case, it's the main ingredient of this rich, creamy mask. With a blend of avocado oil and extract, along with primrose oil, this mask softens the skin and locks in moisture to boost skin elasticity.
Size: 3.4 oz
Skin type: Dry, sensitive skin
Nordstrom rating: 4.1 /5 stars
A Nordstrom reviewer says: “This smells amazing and I’ve only used it a couple of times but I notice a big difference after using it, my skin feels smoother and tighter.”
Tatcha Indigo Overnight Repair Serum
Pros
- Gentle on the skin
Cons
- Not ideal for oily skin
For those with sensitive skin, it can be difficult to find masks that treat their woes without causing irritation or adverse reactions. This mask's unique blend of calming and nourishing ingredients ensures that you won't have to worry—ceramides help lock in moisture, while Japanese indigo extract visibly helps restore skin ailments like redness and excess dryness.
Size: 1.7 oz
Skin type: Normal, dry, combination, irritated, and oily
Sephora rating: 4.5/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “This works wonders if you have dry skin like me. I’ve had it less than a month and I already see a difference. It’s very lightweight and hydrating.”
Youth To The People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Night Mask
Pros
- Helps even skin tone
Cons
- Some users don't like the smell
Formulated with vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants, this mask is a dream. Its silky, smooth, creamy consistency is hydrating and softening, thanks to a super berry blend that combats dullness and tired skin. This mask brings together impressive ingredients to nourish and brighten the skin and even fight off environmental stressors.
Size: 2 oz
Skin type: Normal, dry, combination skin
Sephora rating: 4./5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “This is my favorite mask whenever my skin looks dull and needs some major TLC. The vitamin C boost works to visibly brighten my skin overnight. Whenever I use it, I wake up looking like a facialist snuck into my room while I slept. It also smells incredible.” —Katie Berohn, ELLE beauty editor
Pros
- Leaves skin with a healthy glow
Cons
- Can be messy
Snail mucin is known to be extremely hydrating for the skin. Its slimy texture glides onto the skin, delivering antioxidants and peptides to promote hydration and wound healing. Naturally, this particular collection went viral not too long ago and has remained a cult favorite. This sheet mask uses the same properties as the viral essence to nourish and hydrate your skin.
Size: 10 single-use sheet masks
Skin type: Normal, dry, combination skin
Ulta rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer says: “When I first got this product it made my skin really smooth. I liked that it had no smell and it was great for my sensitive skin. After just three uses my acne and just texture overall on my face had gotten better. This is a need especially when it is paired with the essence you will literally have baby smooth skin!”
Pros
- Lightweight
Cons
- Must reapply for lasting results
There's nothing better than waking up in the morning and feeling refreshed. This silky overnight mask locks in moisture to ensure that your skin remains hydrated throughout the night. The oil-free formula doesn't leave your skin feeling greasy but will give you a radiant healthy glow.
Size: 3.4 oz
Skin type: Normal, dry, combination, and oily skin
Sephora rating: 4.5/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: "Excellent moisturizer for dry and sensitive skin. Contains Aloe and very rich moisturizing ingredients. I use it daily as an after-shave balm. Great value and price point too, this is the best.”
Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Hydrating Face Mask
Pros
- Reduces fine lines
Cons
- Can feel greasy on the skin
It is said that the best way to keep your skin hydrated is to drink enough water. In addition to your daily six to eight glasses, this superfood mask is made with mineral-rich glacier water from the Alps for added hydration; avocado extract also nourishes and hydrates for smooth, buttery-soft skin.
Size: 2.5 oz
Skin type: Normal, dry, combination skin
Ulta rating: 4.2/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer says: “I'm absolutely sold on my Drink Up Intensive. It definitely nourishes your skin. I could tell the difference in just a few weeks.”
Pros
- Helps to calm the skin
Cons
- Takes time to see results
Oatmeal has long been known to soothe and treat skin conditions due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This oatmeal mask restores rough, tight skin for a soft, visibly smooth glow.
Size: 2 oz
Skin type: Dry, normal, combination, oily skin
First Aid Beauty rating: 4.7/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “I used to DIY my own soothing oatmeal masks, but I don’t always have the energy at the end of my day to do the most like that. This First Aid Beauty one spreads out easily across my irritated skin and drenches it in moisture, leaving it softer, calmer, and more hydrated than how the mask found it.” —Carol Lee, ELLE.com associate beauty writer
Pros
- Great for treating redness and irritation
Cons
- Slimy texture
Whether you are preparing for a long trip or recovering from a skincare treatment, sometimes our skin can use a little bit of extra love. This mask gives your skin the boost it needs to recover and relax. Made with finely woven fibers, it contains a zinc-infused serum rich with minerals that penetrates the skin, visibly reduces inflammation, and plumps fine lines.
Size: six single-use sheet masks
Skin type: Dry, normal, combination, oily skin
Medik8 rating: 4.9/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “Whenever I travel my skin goes absolutely out of control from itchiness to breakouts, which is a terrible way to start a vacation. So, I've made it a habit to keep a face mask handy for a long plane or car rides. This sheet masks feels cooling and calming immediately after it's applied.”—Tasha Nicole Smith
Pros
- Deeply moisturizing
Cons
- Can feel sticky on the skin
This mask infuses vitamin B5 and an advanced moisture complex to bring your skin back to life. Star ingredients included in this highly concentrated mask are glycerin, urea, and hyaluronic acid, all working to revive the skin and restore it to its softest, most radiant state.
Size: 2.5 oz
Skin type: Dry, sensitive, irritated skin
Dermstore rating: 4.6/5 stars
A Dermstore reviewer says: “My skin has been extremely dry lately to the point it feels tight under my makeup. I started using this at night and it has greatly improved the look and feeling of my skin. I use it a few times a week and it really makes a difference.”
Pros
- Can also used as a daily moisturizer
Cons
- Not ideał for sensitive skin
You know those times when you wake up in the middle of the night craving a cold glass of water? Believe it or not, it's because the body loses moisture as you sleep, which means that your skin is likely craving hydration as well. This overnight mask from Laniege uses a blend of squalane, niacinamide, and a probiotic complex to support your skin barrier by locking in moisture and revealing plump, moisturized skin.
Size: 2.3 oz
Skin type: Normal, dry, combination, and oily skin
Sephora rating: 4.4/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “I’m from Colorado, where the air is insanely dry. Whenever my skin starts peeling off like a snake—which unfortunately is semi-common, especially in the winter—I turn to this ultra-hydrating overnight mask. It’s perfect to pop on over an occlusive moisturizer for an extra boost.” —Katie Berohn
Tata Harper Hydrating Floral Mask
Pros
- Easy to sleep in
Cons
- Sticky texture
With hyaluronic acid and a blend of nourishing botanicals, this mask has everything you need to recharge your skin and restore a plump, youthful glow. Massage a thick layer of this mask on at night in place of your moisturizer and wake up to soft, smooth skin.
Size: 2.3 oz
Skin type: Dry
Bluemercury rating: 4.9/5 starsA Bluemercury reviewer said: “This is a great hydration mask. Some feel like they are smothering you but this is the perfect weight and texture and comes off really well. Lovely scent like most Tata products and gives the skin a really great boost.”
How often should I be using a hydrating mask?
As with everything in life, you should use face masks in moderation. "Overdoing it with hydration can disrupt your skin's natural moisture barrier. Your skin can also lose its ability to absorb water and hydration or not respond as well to the product," says Dr. Ife Rodney. "For individuals with dry or dehydrated skin, use the mask two to three times per week. Oily, sensitive, or aging skin without any known issues can benefit from a once-weekly hydrating mask.”
What ingredients should I be looking for in a face mask?
Face masks are meant to provide additional nourishment and treatment to your skin. So, looking for masks that cater to your skin's needs is paramount. Hydrating formulas can be a beneficial option for all skin types. “The best ingredients for improving hydration include hyaluronic acid and glycerin. These are known to hydrate the skin, draw moisture from the environment, and keep skin hydrated for long periods,” says Rodney. “Ceramides is another recommended ingredient. It helps to restore the skin's natural barrier, locking in moisture. You can also look for niacinamide to boost hydration, which has anti-inflammatory properties and is suitable for all skin types.”
Are there any side effects of using a hydrating face mask to be aware of?
With so many options out there, it might take a little bit of time to find the right face mask for you. Trying so many products can be tedious for those with sensitive or reactive skin. “While generally safe, there are a few potential side effects to consider. Allergic reactions are common in skincare ingredients. It's essential to patch-test new products before full application,” says Rodney. “Using hydrating masks too frequently can lead to an over-saturation of moisture, potentially causing breakouts or a greasy texture in oily skin types.
Along with allergic reactions, some ingredients may trigger sensitive skin. “Look out for inflammation and stop using the product if your skin becomes red or itchy. Opt for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic formulas if you have sensitive skin.”
Why Trust ELLE Beauty?
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, ELLE.com editors spoke with skincare experts about the absolute best hydrating face masks to soothe dry skin. The authors personally tested a number of these products and scoured reviews for the top-rated products on the market.
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