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After a long day at work or a late night with friends, the last thing I want to do is delve into a long, multi-step skincare routine. However, sometimes, my skin and I both need a little extra TLC to set the tone for the next day, and that’s when I pull out one of my favorite sheet masks. “Sheet masks are specialized skincare products that are thin sheets—typically cotton, paper, or gel—saturated with a concentrated serum, essence, and beneficial skincare ingredients to help improve your skin. This format facilitates the efficient delivery of active ingredients to the skin,” says Nevada Norris, an NCCPA-certified physician assistant at Aventura Dermatology in Aventura, FL.
Just like the best face serums, sheet masks are rich in skin-loving ingredients that deliver them straight to your skin to address any number of skin concerns, such as wrinkles or dark spots. But unlike serums or other face masks that might come in a tube or a jar, sheet masks have one major advantage: the sheet acts as an occlusive layer during the treatment, keeping the moisture and good-for-you ingredients from evaporating into the air before penetrating your skin.
“I love using sheet masks in the winter when my skin is super dry and in need of serious hydration. My skin automatically feels more moist and hydrated after leaving one on. I also love using sheet masks when traveling. When traveling, on the go, or on vacation, sometimes, I start to slack on my skincare routine,” says Dr. Lauren Penzi, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in Long Island, NY. Essentially, face masks are great all year round, but they’re a dermatologist-approved hack for supercharging your skin with hydration and potent ingredients when you most need them. “So if my skin is feeling dry, looking dull, or breaking out, these are usually a quick, easy way to address those issues and are super easy to travel with,” she adds.
Top picks for the best sheet masks in 2024
With K-beauty dominating the industry right now, sheet masks of all types have flooded the market. That means there’s an option for every skin type and concern, but that also makes shopping for one that much harder. And that’s where our list of the 10 best sheet masks comes in. We have one soaked in vitamin C to brighten skin, one infused with ceramides to boost your skin’s moisture barrier like the best barrier creams, and many other fan favorites. We spoke to Norris and Dr. Penzi and scoured the internet for the top-reviewed sheet masks ready to plump, nourish, and support your skin.
Pros
- Hydrating
- Brightening
Cons
- Pricey
Pitera, the signature ingredient in SK-II’s renowned Facial Treatment Essence, encourages skin cell renewal for firmer, brighter, and more even-toned skin. This moisturizing mask offers the same amount of the star ingredient as one-third of a bottle of the essence—it’s basically a facial in a sheet.
Key ingredient: Pitera
Count: 2
SK-II rating: 4.4/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “I am team retinol through and through, which means my skin needs all the barrier support and hydration on my off days. SK-II’s sheet masks are my favorite weekly treat because they’re soothing, hydrating, and plumping. The gooey mask coats my skin with skin-loving ingredients, like the brand’s signature PITERA™ complex—packed with vitamins, antioxidants, amino acids, and more—to build a protective shield against some of the harsher actives in my routine.” —Nerisha Penrose, ELLE.com beauty commerce editor
Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturizing Mask
Pros
- Plumping
- Supports skin barrier
Cons
- Some may dislike scent
Sun exposure, harsh skincare products, and over-exfoliating can all compromise your skin barrier, leading to flaky skin, redness, and irritation. Thankfully, there are products out there designed to help, including this one. “This hydrating mask contains ceramides, panthenol, and glycerin, which are all powerhouse hydrators. It nourishes dry, flaky skin, relieves tightness, and supports the skin’s barrier,” explains Dr. Penzi. Healing a compromised barrier is a long road, but having this Dr. Jart+ mask in your arsenal definitely doesn’t hurt.
Key ingredients: ceramides, panthenol, glycerin
Count: 1
Sephora rating: 4.7/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “In the winter, the dry, hot air from heaters often inflames my sensitive skin, especially while I sleep. The morning after I applied this mask, my skin appeared even and refreshed—I was shocked. I even applied a little less concealer than usual because of how much of my usual redness had subsided.” —Carol Lee, ELLE.com associate beauty e-commerce writer
Neutrogena Hydro Boost and Hydrating Hydrogel Mask
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Alcohol-free
Cons
- Some may find it difficult to apply
If pure hydration is what you need, this drugstore gem is one to try. “Made of 100 percent hydrogel material, this mask sheet holds up to 50 percent more essence than a paper face mask. The formula contains hyaluronic acid to instantly quench dry skin, leaving it supple and hydrated,” says Dr. Penzi. It’s also non-comedogenic, which means it’s safe for acne-prone skin.
Key ingredient: hyaluronic acid
Count: 10
Amazon rating: 4.7/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “This leaves my skin feeling refreshed. I love the glow afterwards, as it looks as if I just left the spa after spending a pretty penny on a facial. The price of this is great, and you cannot beat an at home facial that provides such great results.”
Pros
- Cooling
- Hydrating
Cons
- Pricey
Just like Sulwhasoo’s First Care Activating Serum, this anti-aging sheet mask harnesses the power of ginseng and a blend of potent herbs to hydrate and soothe skin, no matter your skin type. It also reinforces skin barriers that have been damaged by environmental stressors.
Key ingredients: paper mulberry, ginseng
Count: 5
Sulwhasoo rating: 5/5 stars
A Sulwhasoo reviewer says: “It’s the most hydrating and softest sheet mask I’ve used. It’s expensive, but it’s on a different level, so it’s kind of worth it. I have sensitive skin and rosacea, and this mask hasn’t triggered it. I don’t want to use any other masks because this one is really high quality.”
Pros
- Hydrating
- Overnight results
Cons
- May not perfectly fit all faces
In just 15 minutes, this sheet mask floods your skin with amino acids, peptides, sodium hyaluronate—a derivative of hyaluronic acid—and other effective ingredients to moisturize and repair. It’s like a drink of water for dry, sensitive skin.
Key ingredients: amino acids, peptides, sodium hyaluronate, Aquaxyl, sodium PCA
Count: 10
Amazon rating: 4.9/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “My face drank this stuff up, and I IMMEDIATELY noticed a difference in the feel of my skin. So far, I’ve used this mask once a week but may up it to every other day. I have fairly sensitive skin that gets really dry, and this didn’t irritate me at all. I’m curious about the other lines, but I will purchase the blue one time and time again.”
Pros
- Plumping
- Sensitive skin-friendly
Cons
- Pricey
This pick is La Mer’s The Treatment Lotion in sheet mask form. In fact, each sheet mask contains nearly an ounce of the award-winning treatment lotion. Plus, it addresses all sorts of concerns, including fine lines, wrinkles, and dryness, with its hydrating, calming, and plumping formula.
Key ingredients: algae extract, sesame seed oil, lime peel extract
Count: 6
Sephora rating: 4.3/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “I use the The Treatment Lotion daily with serums and creams. This mask is a beautiful addition to give that extra surge of hydration and radiance. It is fully saturated and hugs the face perfectly, allowing all the benefits of this treatment to be absorbed. Mask itself is soft, flexible, and feels cool on your face.”
Pros
- Promotes collagen production
- De-puffing
Cons
- Some may dislike scent
This mask is great at all times of the day, but you might want to incorporate it into your morning routine, especially on days when your skin feels particularly dull and swollen. The vitamin C inside helps brighten and wake your face up, and the serum’s caffeine is a major de-puffer.
Key ingredients: vitamin C, caffeine, ferulic acid
Count: 3
Pixi rating: 4.9/5 stars
A Pixi reviewer says: “These masks are amazing and really help brighten your skin. They always come fully embedded with serum. I have very sensitive skin, and it always reacts amazingly. I always use it when I travel for an extra vitamin C boost. It improves my skin so it doesn’t look so tired and/or dull.”
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Plumping
Cons
- On the pricier side
After six years of curating K-beauty skincare products on her retail platform Peach & Lily, founder Alicia Yoon and her team synthesized their intimate knowledge of Korean skincare technology and created a line of their own. This smoothing and firming mask from the collection features free radical-fighting antioxidants and a gentle chemical exfoliant.
Key ingredients: camellia extract, centella asiatica extract, ginseng, hyaluronic acid
Count: 20
Peach & Lily rating: 4.9/5 stars
A Peach & Lily reviewer says: “My skin is absolutely glowing after using this mask. This mask is a staple in my glass skin routine.”
Perricone MD Cold Plasma Plus+ Concentrated Treatment Sheet Mask
Pros
- Brightening
- Softening
Cons
- Pricey
Since not everyone’s face is the same size, it can be difficult to find a sheet mask that perfectly fits your features. Perricone MD came up with a solution: a sheet mask that comes in two pieces, making it a whole lot easier to customize the fit. The serum itself is a winner, too—its combination of vitamin C ester, phospholipids, and copper tripeptide provides brightening, firming, and tone-evening benefits.
Key ingredients: vitamin C ester, copper tripeptide, phospholipids
Count: 1
Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I really liked the formula of this mask. It is like a thick lotion, so you really do need to massage the packet before opening to make sure the product is properly spread over the mask. Unlike other lotion masks I’ve tried, it didn’t leave my skin oily feeling or looking super shiny. The day after using the mask, my skin looked healthy, and some of my breakouts looked like they were shrinking and healing.”
Pros
- Cooling
- Reduces post-procedure irritation
Cons
- Not infused with a treatment serum
“We use these at Aventura Dermatology during post-procedure care for laser treatments in the office,” says Norris. This sterilized mask is perfect for that purpose, thanks to its heat-reducing, water-infused biocellulose fibers. It soothes any irritation and cools the skin, calming it down with ease.
Key ingredient: Biocellulose fibers
Count: 6
Dermstore rating: 4.7/5 stars
A Dermstore reviewer says: “These are a must for any post-procedure routine. I have them in the fridge and apply immediately after microneedling or a Morpheus treatment. They immediately cool my skin and reduce redness, and I feel it significantly speeds up recovery. I’ve noticed less peeling or flaking, too. They don’t sting or have a fragrance. Good, simple skincare.”
Meet the Experts
Nevada Norris is an NCCPA-certified physician assistant at Aventura Dermatology in Aventura, FL.
Lauren Penzi is a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in Long Island, NY.
What skin types can use sheet masks?
The general consensus is that no matter your skin type, there’s a sheet mask tailored for you. “Of course, consumers need to read labels carefully and purchase ones that align with their skincare type and needs, [whether] hydration, brightness, acne, etc. However, patients with sensitive or eczema-prone skin need to be careful regardless, as prolonged contact of different ingredients with their skin can cause an allergy, irritation, redness, and burning,” says Dr. Penzi.
What are some tips for using sheet masks?
Generally, it’s just fine to follow the directions on the back of the sheet mask packet. However, there are a few ways to optimize each session. Norris recommends always cleansing your face before to make sure your skin is fully ready to absorb all of the active ingredients and then following up with a sheet mask infused with a moisturizer to lock in all of the nourishing goodness. “While sheet masks can be used regularly, avoid excessive use to prevent potential skin irritation,” she adds.
Additionally, Dr. Penzi suggests adding exfoliating to your skincare routine if you haven’t already, as that “helps to remove the dead skin cells from the surface of your skin and ensures that your skin can properly absorb the active in the mask,” she says. She also made sure to underscore the fact that you need to use sheet masks regularly to see and maintain maximum benefits.
What is the best time of day to use a sheet mask?
According to Norris, there are a couple of instances for which you’d particularly want to carve out some sheet mask time. “They are particularly beneficial before special events and following exfoliation for their soothing effects,” she says.
But as it turns out, there isn’t really a right or wrong time to throw on a sheet mask. “I prefer to use them at night because I think of it as part of my wind down and relaxation routine. I prefer to lie down, close my eyes, read a book, or do some other calming activity. Many people like to use them in the morning as a pick-me-up because the masks do provide some immediate benefits that leave the skin looking hydrated, supple, and bright. If the masks contain retinol or any other sun-sensitizing ingredients, then PM is recommended,” explains Dr. Penzi.
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, beauty writer Carol Lee spoke with a trusted dermatologist and a physician assistant about sheet masks, and she and other ELLE.com editors tested a variety themselves. Lee also searched the internet for the top-rated sheet masks, perused reviews for dozens of popular options, and evaluated each on their features and customer reviews.
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