What The Hell Is a Sheet Face Mask?
Your mug's got it rough. Forced to put up with everything from minor nuisances like zits and sweat, to environmental threats like the harsh summer sun, your face takes a beating all-day, every day—including, it so happens, when you sleep. And so, sooner or later, you’re going to want to treat it to a tune-up.
Now, your first choice is, of course, a proper facial, complete with a trained professional present for the sole purpose of perfecting your skin. Unfortunately, that’s not always going to be an option. In fact, we can almost guarantee that there will come a moment when you find that you simply don’t have the time, capital or small-talk wherewithal to step into a spa for a treatment, even though you may very well need one. In which case, a sheet mask is the next best thing.
Read MoreThe Super-Chill Low-Key NBD Guide to Doing a Facial MaskBy Megan Gustashaw
A what, now?, you ask. Well, if you follow any number of celebrity men on Instagram, then you probably have at least the semblance of an idea what we’re talking about. Chris Pratt, Justin Bieber, Diddy, even: all are guys who have, at one point or another, show an appreciation for the finer things in life by posting a selfie in a face mask, proudly touting their skincare prowess for all the world to see. But even though they’re social media-endorsed, you may not know exactly what these Hannibal Lecter-style grooming tools do, or how they do it. Allow us clear up a few of the finer points.
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Sheet masks are essentially just what their name implies: a one-size-fits-all sheet of paper applied to the face for a period of time in an effort to visibly improve the health of your skin. And the key to their doing so: Each is drenched in a specially-targeted serum, which, depending on the specific mask, will take aim at whatever skin malady you’re intent on remedying. Whether you’re burdened by dry skin or oil, acne or what have you, sheet masks will provide direct treatment, to noticeable effect (all at a fraction of the cost of a regular facial). They’re also individually packaged, making it easy to take them with you on the go—which you can bet your ass will come in handy after the toll that red-eye takes on your face.
Not yet convinced? Then take one of the following condition-specific masks out for a spin. All you need to do is lie back, slip in onto your face paying extra attention around the eyes, and let it do it’s magic. What exactly do you have to lose?
For Dry, Parched Skin
When Essence ‘The Last Choice’ Gel Mask, $7
For The Oily And Acne-Prone
Dr. Jart+ Dermask Micro Jet Clearing Solution, $9
For Those Showing Their Age
SKII Facial Treatment Mask, $17
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