If you’re not familiar with sheet masks or you simply haven’t had a chance to try one yet, you might be wondering what all the hype is about when it comes to this popular skincare trend. After all why not just stick to a traditional cream mask right? The thing is like all masks, sheet masks offer a multitude of benefits and are a great place to start if you are new to this vital step in your skincare routine. And no, sheet masks aren’t a new phenomenon, in fact they’ve been around for decades, but finally they are getting the wrap they deserve and for very good reason.

From what they are to their many benefits, keep reading as we reveal everything you need to know about sheet masks.

What are sheet masks?

Different to your traditional cream masks, sheet masks are single-use face masks made out of a thin, often cotton or paper-like material designed to fit over your face. The sheet is cut to fit the shape of your face (with holes for the eyes, nose and mouth) and is soaked in a serum or essence. These serums are typically packed with all kinds of beneficial ingredients, like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and antioxidants, that are designed to penetrate deeply into the skin and provide a variety of benefits.

Why are sheet masks good?

Sheet masks are seriously good for your skin for a number of reasons, in fact they provide the perfect balance of skincare and pamper!

They are a great way to provide your skin with a big boost of hydration, nourishment and other skincare benefits. One of the great things about sheets masks is that they come in a number of formulations too – such as brightening and anti-ageing – so you can choose one that’s tailored to your specific skin concerns. The sheet itself also helps to lock in the moisture and active ingredients, allowing for better absorption and therefore effectiveness.

Another great thing about sheet masks is that they provide a relaxing and pampering experience, a weekly self-care ritual, which let’s face it we could all do with! This is because they literally force you to take some ‘me time’, a break from your daily routine to sit back and zone out for 15-20 minutes while the sheet does its thing to your skin! It’s like having a mini spa session in the comfort of your own home, who wouldn’t love that! And the end result? You feel better and your skin certainly looks it too!

Finally sheet masks are relatively affordable and incredibly easy and convenient to use (just open sachet, unfold the mask, apply it to your face and wait for it to work its magic!) They are also great for travel or on-the-go use as they’re lightweight (they come in single sachets) and take up very little space.

Are sheet masks right for your skin?

Sheet masks can be beneficial for all skin types but like with any skincare product its important to choose the right one for your specific skin concerns. If you have reactive or sensitive skin just be cautious and be mindful of the ingredients and avoid sheet masks that contain fragrances or essential oils which can be irritating to some sensitive skin.

Here are our top picks;

Sensitive skin

If your skin is on the sensitive side look for sheet masks enriched with soothing and cooling ingredients such as aloe, green tea, lavender, and tea tree to help nourish and calm your skin while reducing any inflammation.

We LOVE the ELES Calming and Soothing Sheet Mask

Ageing skin

If you have mature skin, opt for sheet masks that contain ingredients such as, collagen, peptides or retinol, which can help to improve skin texture and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Try the ELES Youth Recovery Sheet Mask Not only will it improve skin’s texture and help with tackling any premature lines and wrinkles, it also helps to brighten and even skin tone.

Dry, dull, discoloured skin

And if you’re dealing with dryness, dehydration, discolouration and dullness and could do with an instant pick-me-up, as well as boost of hydration, a sheet mask that contains nourishing and brightening ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin c or niacinamide is the way to go!

We highly recommend the ELES Hydrating and Brightening Sheet Mask, it’s fantastic! It plumps the skin from within, radically reducing moisture loss, plus extra bonus it helps to prevent hyperpigmentation and give your skin a fabulous, healthy glow.

How do you apply sheet masks?

Sheet masks are designed to fit over your face. Using one is pretty simple. Here are the steps;

Start with clean, dry skin (best to wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat it dry before applying).
Take the sheet mask out of its packaging and unfold it.
Smooth it onto your face, making sure it’s lined up with your eyes, nose and mouth.
Press the sheet mask onto your skin to make sure it’s adhering properly (you want all the ingredients to properly absorb into your skin).
Relax for 15-20 minutes and let the mask work its magic. Enjoy the “me” time!
Remove the sheet mask.
Finally gently massage any remaining serum into the skin (this is often the case as sheet masks are literally drenched in product).