Once the preserve of backstage beauty pros, A-list facialists and K-beauty advocates, the sheet mask has stealthily graduated from skincare novelty to essential - a luxurious moment of calm with very visible, instant results.
In the simplest terms sheet masks are single use masks - usually biocellulose, cotton or hydrogel - saturated in meticulously formulated, active-packed serums. Designed to neatly cocoon the face, they create a semi-occlusive barrier, helping to hold moisture and ingredients flush against the skin, thus encouraging the penetration of essential ingredients.
The appeal of the trusty sheet mask lies largely in their immediacy: worn for fifteen or so minutes, skin looks instantly fresher, more dewy and vital - making them perfect for pre (or post) big night out, long-haul flight, or anytime that your skin is showing signs of stress, dehydration or dullness.
After long nights (or short ones), hydrating, Hyaluronic Acid or peptide-packed masks will help revive puffy, weary skin and restore bounce. Meanwhile post-travel, when skin tends to be sensitised and dehydrated, those containing ceramides or Centella Asiatica, (the super botanical long used in traditional Asian medicine) can soothe inflammation and restore barrier function.
All this said, sheet masks are not without their caveats; they are not cheap, they are typically single use - which raises environmental concerns - and while they deliver impressive, instant results, these tend to be short-lived without a solid skincare routine to fall back on.
Still, for those moments when skin needs a fast-track reset few things feel quite so quickly, easily and gratifyingly restorative. With this in mind, try these for size:
To firm and plump: 111Skin Celestial Black Diamond Face Mask
An A-lister favourite, these hydrogel, multi-section masks aren’t cheap but do work hard to firm, plump, tighten and smooth, all while treating blemishes and soothing sensitised, irritated skin. Expect a powerful cocktail of peptides alongside Centella Asiatica. 100 for 5 masks (111skin.com)
For dull, lacklustre faces: MZ Skin Hydra-Lift Gold Face Mask
A great multitasker from London-based Oculoplastic surgeon and aesthetics Dr. Maryam Zamani with Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, Vitamin C and Aloe to brighten, hydrate, restore radiance and soothe. £100 for 5 masks (mzskin.com)
To nourish and soothe: Medik8 Ultimate Recovery Bio-Cellulose Mask
Loved by skincare professionals treating clients post-treatment, these bio-cellulose masks can quickly and effectively calm even the driest and most sensitised skin. Expect Zinc, Hyaluronic Acid and Rockweed Algae. £70 for 6 masks (medik8.com)
For thirsty, dehydrated skin: Sarah Chapman Skinesis 3D Moisture Infusion Mask
With low molecular Hyaluronic Acid and Rose Water, these masks from London-based A-list facialist Sarah Chapman deliver beautifully dewy, glossy, vital-looking skin. A great option for pre-makeup application. £60 for 4 masks (sarahchapman.com)
To deeply hydrate: Decorté Moisture Liposome Mask
Those in need of a hefty hydration hit would do well to try this stretchy and brilliantly adhesive sheet mask from Japanese skincare expert Decorté. A clever time-release system employs liposomes to deliver deep hydration as the day goes on. Expect smoother, softer, more radiant skin. £60 for 6 masks (decortecosmetics.co.uk)
Fabulous on flights: Charlotte Tilbury Instant Magic Facial Dry Sheet Mask
With an ingenious dry design that hooks over the ears, this clever mask from makeup mogul Charlotte Tilbury is fuss and mess-free, so a fabulous option for travellers. Made of fabric laced with peptides, vitamins, and oils that are easily absorbed by the skin, each one may be used up to three times and works to brighten, hydrate and clarify skin. £18 for one (charlottetilbury.com)
Great for pre-makeup plumping: Beauty Pie Triple Hyaluronic Acid Hydra-Glow Sheet Mask
Formulated and produced in one of Japan’s best skincare laboratories, this cotton sheet mask is drenched in Beauty Pie’s superlative multi-weight Hyaluronic Acid serum, with potent peptides and antioxidants to smooth and firm skin. A great plumper! £60 for 5 or £34 for Beauty Pie Members
