While facial masks used to be an occasional pampering treat, many are now including them in their skincare routine. These serum-soaked sheets are designed to deliver a concentrated dose of nutrients, helping to hydrate, refresh, and nourish your skin. Whether you're looking to improve dryness, dullness, or irritation, sheet masks can provide a quick and effective boost.

Facial sheet masks are generally easy to use, but there are still those who misuse them. Continue reading as we share the essential dos and don’ts to help you get the most out of your sheet mask sessions.

Dos:

Clean your face first

Before applying anything or starting a skincare routine, make sure to wash your face first. Remove makeup and other products on your face with a makeup remover, then proceed with a gentle cleanser. This helps make sure that your skin is free from excess oil, dirt, and other impurities that could negatively affect the mask’s effectiveness.

Read and follow the instructions

Before applying the mask, thoroughly read the instructions to understand how long you should leave it on. Most sheet masks, especially those with chemical exfoliants, should be removed after a short period of time. Avoid leaving it on for longer than it is supposed to be, as it can potentially lead to dryness and irritation.

Massage any excess mask serum

Don’t let the extra essence go to waste. Massage the excess serum onto your face, neck, and upper chest using upward and outward motions. This promotes circulation and helps to further absorb the skin-loving ingredients. You can also use the excess serum on your arms to smooth rough patches around the elbows.

Moisturize after using a sheet mask

Even if your skin feels soft and hydrated after using a sheet mask, you should still moisturize to lock in hydration and other beneficial ingredients. As sheet masks can draw water into the skin, not having a barrier can cause the moisture to evaporate, potentially leading to moisture loss. Using a moisturizer seals in and retains hydration, as well as prolongs the mask’s benefits.

Store them properly

Sheet masks are typically sold in sealed sachets and contain stable formulas, which means that you can stock up on them. Just make sure to store them in a cool, dry place and avoid warm environments. For a refreshing boost, enhanced cooling, or depuffing effect, you can keep the masks in the fridge.

Don’ts: 

Leave the mask on for too long

Most facial sheet masks are designed to be left on between 15 and 20 minutes. Although it might be tempting to let it sit on for longer, doing so can have a reversal effect and cause the mask to draw moisture from your skin instead of hydrating it. There is also the potential for discomfort or pulling off skin when removing a dry sheet mask. 

Wash or rinse immediately after use

Most sheet masks are not designed to be rinsed off; you have to pat any remaining essence using your fingertips. This, along with a gentle massage, allows your skin to fully absorb the serum and maximize its benefits. Washing your face immediately is not generally recommended, as it will remove the goodness of the serum. You can also refer to the packaging for specific instructions. 

Reuse a sheet mask

Sheet masks are designed for one-time use only. Reusing them can transfer the dirt, oil, impurities from the first use back on to your skin, potentially leading to breakouts or irritation. The serum/essence in the sheet mask also dries out after the first use, which then diminishes its effectiveness. 

Excessively use sheet masks  

Over-masking is not only expensive, but also disruptive to your skin barrier. This is especially true for sheet masks with lots of active ingredients or strong formulas. When used too frequently or longer than they are supposed to be, the ingredients in the masks may cause redness and irritation and make your skin more vulnerable to damage. 

Get your sheet masks at Dr. Sylvia Skin Care

If you’re looking for a facial sheet mask that can elevate your routine and help you achieve radiant, refreshed skin, we offer two that can help you put your best face forward. 

Skin Revival Facial Mask – a sheet mask designed for deep repair and intensive rejuvenation. This contains a potent blend of natural extracts and other beneficial ingredients to restore hydration, brighten the skin, and promote a smoother, healthier-looking complexion. Benefits include:

• Intensive hydration

• Skin brightening

• Deep skin repair

• Soothing comfort

• Antioxidant protection

Centella Asiatica Hydro Repair Mask – this sheet mask is ideal for post-sun or treatment exposure recovery. It contains hyaluronic acid, centella asiatica, and a quick-soothing complex to provide intense hydration, calm redness, and promote the repair of sensitive skin. Benefits include: 

• Quick soothing relief 

• Intense hydration 

• Redness reduction 

• Skin calming formula 

• Gentle care for sensitive skin 

To get the most out of your sheet mask, it’s advisable to choose one that suits your needs or skin type, apply it correctly, and follow each step with care. When used consistently as part of your skincare routine, sheet masks can enhance your skin’s hydration, radiance, and overall health. 

For more skincare tips and product recommendations, browse through our website or blog. And if you have skin concerns that are making you self-conscious, contact Cutis Medical Laser Clinics in Singapore to schedule a consultation with one of our aesthetic doctors.