Sometimes your skin needs a little extra nourishment and that’s where masks come in. Before COVID-19 existed, face masks were something you put on during spa days to moisturize, brighten, and firm your skin. Although N95s may be the first thing you think of these days, the skincare version is still around and we love to indulge.
Rinse-On, Rinse-Off
Lying back with a creamy mask on one’s face is the quintessential image that comes to mind when thinking of a pamper sesh. Creamy and often colorful, rinse-off masks are typically painted on and then left for around 20 minutes before being removed with warm water.
Who Gives a Sheet
Korean beauty is responsible for introducing sheet masks to the world. Typically made from fibers, cotton, or cellulose cloth, they include cut-outs for the eyes, nose, and mouth and can sometimes make you look like a character from a horror film. Aesthetics aside, sheet masks usually possess high concentrations of active ingredients meaning they only need to be on the skin for a brief period of time.
Which is Better?
It all comes down to what you’re hoping to achieve and how much time you have. If you’re looking for a boost of hydration, a sheet mask will be your best bet. If clogged pores are your concern, however, rather opt for a rinse-off. Also bear in mind that rinse-offs need around 20 minutes to marinate, but will provide longer-lasting results; whereas sheet masks will offer an immediate, albeit temporary, outcome.