How to Boost the Benefits of a Sheet Mask

Over the past few years, face masks have made a big name for themselves in skincare. Disguises are no longer reserved for girly nights and home spa days. Now they have become an essential part of most skincare routines, like cleansing or moisturizing. As you might expect, the popularity of anything is skyrocketing, with more and more varieties of face masks entering the market. The main one is the sheet mask. Comfortable and effective, sheet masks have already earned a spot on this year's hottest skincare trends list. As we have a hunch that you'll be spending a significant amount of time in 2018 with a sheet mask "fixed" to your face, we're taking the opportunity to give you our top tips for using sheet masks as well as sharing some of our favorites from portfolio of L'Oreal brands.

7 Tips for Making the Most of Sheet Masks

Using a sheet mask seems simple enough. Just unfold and place on your face. But if you really want to see the full benefits of a sheet mask, there's one more thing you should do.

Tip #1: Clean first, not after.

Before applying a sheet mask, make sure you start with a clean canvas first. And remember, when it's time to take off the mask, don't wash it off. The serum that the mask leaves behind should stay on the skin, not wash it off.  

Tip #2: Break out the scissors.

Don't be discouraged if sheet masks never fit your face properly. It is rare that it is the perfect size and shape for your face without any modification. If this is causing a problem, there is an easy fix. Use scissors to cut off where the mask is too big and try again.

Tip #3: Keep them cool. 

Food is not the only thing that can be stored in the refrigerator. To give sheet masks extra cooling power, place them in the refrigerator. Whether you feel overheated or just tired, smoothing out a chilled mask will be very, very pleasant. 

Tip #4: Don't overdo it.

It's easy to assume that long-term mask use can only lead to better results, but that's not always the case. There are instructions for sheet masks for a reason. So, if your mask says you should sit with it on for 10-15 minutes, set a timer before lifting your legs.

Tip #5: Flip it over.

Often sheet masks don't have a right or wrong side - whichever side you put on your skin will work the same way. This means you can flip the mask halfway through to get a fresh dose of hydration. 

Tip #6: Play the part of a masseuse.

When you remove the sheet mask from your face, a layer of serum should remain on the surface of the skin. This is your signal to go ahead and give yourself a facial massage. Not only will you help your skin absorb the remaining product, but you will also feel amazing.

Tip #7: Wear blindfolds.

In most cases, a sheet mask does not cover the skin under the eyes. Since this is one area that you know needs a lot of attention, you can wear eye patches at the same time as a sheet mask to take care of your entire face.

Our Favorite Sheet Masks

Now that you know how to get the most out of your (sheet) masking session, here are a few of our favorite sheet masks from Garnier to apply these tips to.

Garnier SkinActive Super Cleansing Charcoal Face Mask

Charcoal has quickly become one of the trendiest face mask ingredients, and you can also find it in sheet masks. Formulated with charcoal and algae extract, this non-greasy mask removes pore-clogging impurities for a deep cleansing feeling.

Garnier SkinActive The Super Hydrating Sheet Mask - Hydrating 

Micellar water isn't the only water-based product we love. You may not have known, but sheet masks can also be water-based. Formulated with hyaluronic acid, this water-based concealer provides soothing hydration for fresher, softer, more radiant skin.

Garnier SkinActive The Super Hydrating Sheet Mask - Mattifying

Primers and face powders can help you matte your face, but you shouldn't rule out sheet masks as a matte option. Immediately after using this sheet mask, you will notice that the skin looks clearer and more balanced, and over time, oily sheen will decrease, and skin quality may even improve.

Garnier SkinActive Super Hydrating Sheet Mask - Illuminates 

If matte skin isn't your thing, this sheet mask is for you. Intense radiance-enhancing formula containing sakura extract hydrates, brightens and boosts skin's radiance.

Garnier SkinActive The Super Hydrating Sheet Mask - Calming

Using a sheet mask should already be soothing, but if you want to take that effect to the next level, use this sheet mask, which is specifically designed to soothe your skin. Thanks to chamomile extract, the skin calms down immediately after use, looks fresher and softer.

Garnier SkinActive Anti-Fatigue Super Hydrating Sheet Mask

Feeling tired? Sounds like the perfect opportunity to put on a sheet mask. Try this one, which contains lavender essential oil and has a pleasant, relaxing scent. In addition, the mask revitalizes the skin and reduces visible signs of fatigue..