What’s the difference between a sheet mask and a hydrogel mask – and do I need both?
It is a truth universally acknowledged that skincare is confusing. Once upon a time, we stuck to a three-step cleanse, tone and moisturize routine. But now, we’ve added a whole host of new products to the mix – including serums, sprays, essences, spot treatments and eye creams.
Of these new categories, there’s one that has distinguished itself as the next big thing: face masks.
In 30 minutes or less, the right face mask can completely transform your face – hydrating dry skin, nixing acne, plumping fine lines and more.
The only problem? Not all face masks are created equal. If you’re going to part with your hard-earned cash online or in-store, you need to know how to spot the real deal from a mile away.
To guide you through these trying times, we’ve broken down the most popular types of face masks. Here, the Aceologyguide to face masks:
MODELING MASKS
Praised for their ability to deliver glow-inducing antioxidants to the skin without risk of evaporation, Modeling masks have been a favorite of Korean dermatologists for decades.
Recently, at-home versions have been developed – including Aceology Anti-Aging Gold Modeling Mask, Rose Petal Modeling Mask and Detoxifying Modeling Mask – allowing consumers to mix and apply their modeling mask without a spa appointment.
HYDROGEL MASKS
What is a hydrogel mask? Great question! The answer is this: a hydrogel is similar to the standard sheet masks you’re probably already familiar with. However, rather than being made of cotton or similar, hydrogel masks are comprised of a much slicker, gel-like material. Hydrogel has an instant cooling effect, locks in moisture and allows skin to absorb more serum than it would normally. These beauties are extra cooling and hydrating and leave your skin clean fresh and rejuvenated long after your at-home spa sesh.
SHOP: Aceology Frosé and Green T. Infusion Gel Mask.
EYE MASKS
Under-eye masks typically look like comma-shaped patches and are infused with lightweight but potent peptides which trick the skin into producing more collagen, restoring bounce and reducing fine lines; some have botanicals that soothe, smooth and protect, some have sodium hyaluronate gives thirsty skin the plumping hydration boost it needs.
SHOP: The Aceology Anti-Aging Gold Eye Mask
LIP MASKS
When the cold weather sets in, we all know the havoc it wreaks on your lips, even the best balms aren’t going to cut it. You need something packed with powerful moisturizing ingredients like vitamin E, peptides, and almond oil to protect your delicate skin from further damage. Though they might sound like an unnecessary expense, lip masks will do just that.
SHOP: Aceology Overnight Lip Mask
SHEET MASKS
Sheet masks are made from single-use fabrics soaked in a skin-changing serum. Using a sheet mask allows skin to absorb a higher amount of nutrient-dense product than it would using a standard serum.
SLEEP MASKS
While you are getting the Zzs you need, sleep masks work their magic. These ultra-rich masks usually resemble a thick moisturizer. Wearing the mask overnight gives the nutrients a solid eight hours to really sink into the skin. Rest up, Sleeping Beauty.
CLAY MASKS
Clay masks come in pots of product with a thick clay-like consistency that is painted all-over the face. Best for counteracting acne by drawing dirt and other gunk (sorry) out of skin, clay masks also tighten sagging skin, exfoliate dead skin cells from the face and refine enlarged or enflamed pores.
MUD MASKS
The OG of skincare treatments: mud masks are ideal for oily skin types. Slightly different to clay masks, known to improve blood circulation under the skin, cleanse skin of dirt and impurities, moisturize and refresh tired skin and make the skin appear brighter, softer and clearer. Mud masks also serve to repair skin tissue, which improves the skin's natural elasticity, making it appear younger.
PEEL-OFF MASKS
Peel off masks come in all shapes and sizes when it comes to skin concerns; there are variations for blackheads, anti-aging, hydration, brightening and more. They are painted on as a lightweight gel that dries into a thin layer. When the time is up, grab a corner and pull the mask up, up and away, sloughing off dead skin cells as you go.
