Sheet masks are one of the most common skincare staple items for literally everyone. You know it is GOOD, but do you know how to make the BEST out of it?
We have invited Dr. Do Young Rhee (Dermatologist. MD. PhD.,Director of Scientific Committee, the Association of Korean Dermatologists) to share his professional knowledges on some common questions on sheet masks.
1. Can I use a mask everyday?
If your skin is healthy, you can use a sheet mask as often as once a day every day. If your skin is sensitive, it is fine to use one every day as well but with a little extra caution.
First of all, I recommend not to use a mask for over 10 to 20 minutes. Leaving a sheet mask on for too long can actually dry out your skin because once the moisture evaporates from the fabric, it’ll begin to draw water out of your skin.
Sleeping with a mask pack is the easiest shortcut to dry skin, breaking down the skin barrier and eventually getting your skin in trouble.
Second, if you feel your skin is extra sensitive, consider placing your mask in the fridge for additional cooling and soothing benefits.
Third, remember the longer the list of ingredients, the more potential sources of allergens or irritation. The ingredients that you should avoid when your skin is sensitive are fragrances, parabens, alcohol, colourants, mineral oils, triethanolamine, propylene glycol, and benzophenone.
Dermatologically tested for sensitive skin:
2. What is the difference between sheet mask and applying fruits on your skin directly ?
Sheet masks have benefit as it is super easy to use than other forms of face masks. Sheet masks are thin, pre-cut masks that are soaked in serum with active ingredients that are simply applied to your face. These masks are typically made of cottons, fibers, or thin gels to hydrate and deliver essential ingredients to your skin. They are designed to fit neatly on your face as they have slits around your eyes and nose to cover all areas evenly.
With a sheet mask, all you need to do is remove the essence mask from the packaging and apply it to your face. While the ingredients of cream and gel face mask are open to the air, the protective layer of the sheet mask ensures serum is trapped between your skin and the sheet, ensuring maximum absorption of the ingredients. Sheet masks usually contain a higher concentration of active ingredients than a product in a bottle. Using them can facilitate deeper penetration of these ingredients. In addition, sheet masks are incredibly hydrating. Most sheet masks contain humectants, which are ingredients that attract water, such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin that can help seal moisture in.
Hyaluronic Acid Masks:
3. Should I use toner before using the mask, especially those that contain active ingredients?
When applying a sheet mask, always make sure that you cleanse your face first.
And then, use a toner to even out your skin. A face toner is used to help absorb excess dirt, oil, makeup and any other debris that may clog pores. Toners can be used as an alternative way to cleanse the skin on the face when frequent washing may be irritating for those with sensitive skin.
Finally, you can go ahead and apply the sheet mask.
If you have sensitive skin and are using a toner