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There are theface masksyou wear when you have to go outside in a pandemic.
Consider the below a highlight reel.
So how is it that masks actually do anything?
And it’s very much by design that those actives work their magic in a matter of minutes.
In this case, more isn’t more.
), but essentially, sheet masks are just that: single-use sheets enriched with active ingredients.
Since it also helps remove excess oil, charcoal is another great option for oily skin, says Kim.
Creamy wash-off masks have a wide variety of benefits depending on the active ingredients.
But what’s the difference between a sleeping mask and a night cream?
Kim says it all goes back to you guessed it the concentration of active ingredients.
And sleeping masks (which typically focus on hydration) are more jam-packed with ‘em than your standard cream.
Sure, they make a great photo op.
“They’re entertaining, but I don’t know if they really, truly have a function.
“Womp, womp.
These masks “don’t really have actives,” says Kim.
You may have noticed that masks are migrating to other parts of the body.
But, says Kim, especially if you have sensitive skin, “you could definitely overdo it.”
That said, he notes that some celebrities in Korea swear by using a sheet mask every single day.
So start slow and find a rhythm that works for you once or twice a week is pretty typical.
Kim admits the process can be “a bit labor-intensive,” but he very much supports the logic.
So if youve got the time to mix and match, have at it.
The latter is particularly fun to apply, says Michelle.
“It smells like cake and it looks like it has sprinkles in it.”
“But it’s super juicy and just makes your skin look and feel awesome.”
(Technically, it’s a peel, but Jenny considers the treatment akin to an exfoliating mask.
)Golde Papaya Bright Exfoliating Face Maskis another winner in Jenny’s book.
“It smells like a tropical vacation,” says Jenny.
(You cancheck out Michelle’s Instagramfor a preview.)
The Bottom Line
If youre looking to supercharge your skin-care routine (and really, who isn’t?
), consider incorporating a mask a couple times a week.
K-beauty brands have ushered in a new era of innovation, so rest assured youll have plenty of options.