The Joy of Sheet Masks

If you haven't experienced the joy of sheet masks yet, then it's about time. Sheet masks are literally face-shaped sheets of fabric soaked in serum. Sheet masks originated from South Korea, a land where they take their skin care seriously. The trend has taken over all of Asia and the U.S so I’m jumped on the bandwagon and am loving the results.

So how exactly does it work? A serum-soaked sheet is individually packaged and each is generally used just once. The sheet prevents quick evaporation of the beneficial vitamins and minerals which are in their water phase and extends the time frame the ingredients require to penetrate deep into the skin. This result in the sheet masks outperforming the effects of the traditional serum-type skincare even when applied once. Imagine a nutrition-packed quick skin solution in just 15 to 30 minutes. That's the sheet mask for you.

From hydrating dry skin, to soothing bumpy skin, to combating skin dullness - there's a mask out there to fit almost any skin concern. Simply peel open the packet of your sheet mask of choice, pull it out, and put it on a clean face. No more spreading with your fingers or a plastic spatula and waiting for a mask to dry. Let the sheet mask sit for 15-30 minutes (read packaging for recommended time span). Once done, just allow the excess serum to absorb into the skin. No need to wash it off. It’s good to note that the purpose of a sheet mask is to nourish, not exfoliate or cleanse your skin. So expect a brightening, glowing effect after use but don’t expect deep cleaning action.

With sheet masks, it’s so easy to pamper yourself even when you’re busy or barely have time. You can use sheet masks as many times as you want throughout the day or week, but many recommend using it three times a week or once a day for extra care. Use it while sitting in your office desk to prep for that date tonight, or while you're on the flight to your next holiday destination and be #selfieready by the time you land. Heck you can even put it on while you do your chores.

Some of the more popular sheet masks are available at South Korean beauty stores such as The Face Shop and InnisFree. They are also available at Sephora or online at Nykaa and Amazon. Happy masking!