Why Are Korean Sheet Masks So Popular ? History & Benefits

In South Korea, there is a deep attachment and love of plain sheet face masks. Although majority only use a sheet mask 1-2 times weekly, there are a group who are obsessed and will indulge in a daily sheet mask before bed to wake up with a deep, unparalleled glow. (There are even some that will double up, morning and night, for that deep, deep hydration state). Face masks have a unique skincare benefit, in their ability to induce deep hydration and trap moisture against your skin to naturally enhance absorption. 

They have a long, traditional history in Korea, back in the Joseon era, when women would soak natural cloths in rice-water or ginseng and place it against the skin (known as myeonyak/면약). 

So, from over 800 years ago, is there still a lasting benefit for sheet masks in a modern skincare routine? For dry skin (and fine lines) especially, there is an obvious benefit to a deeper moment of hydration. They help enhance the skin barrier’s natural ability to hold water and prevents moisture evaporation on application, enhancing the moisture boost to the skin. When compared to a moisturizer alone, a sheet mask helped boost hydration in skin significantly and will give you that deep, dewy glow. 

It is important to select the right sheet mask for your skin type, however, as although some have soothing and hydrating agents – others can have actives that require specific timing and combination. If you struggle with sensitive skin or irritation, try to keep an eye out for calming sheet masks – such as centella, hyaluronic acid, green tea or heartleaf. Or if you are after a deep glow and reduction in dark spots, check out ingredients such as niacinamide, glutathione and vitamin C (for that lovely, golden glow to your skin). 

A sheet mask is ideally applied to freshly cleaned and toned skin. It’s great if you have a gentle exfoliation to clear pores and create a flat base for maximal absorption. Either an AHA/BHA scrub or a light toner pad massage can help open up pores and create the perfect surface for absorption. 
 
If you love a hot shower, try to cleanse, tone and apply the sheet shortly after exiting however, as moisture will steam out of your skin and leave it feeling tougher and dryer. The ideal timing is within 5 minutes of showering, start your toning and mask application for a dewy finish.

Try to get a good seal on your sheet mask by gentle pressing down with fingertips. Start with the centre of the mask (sealing it well around the nose and cheeks, then flatten it carefully around your chin and forehead) for maximum contact and hydration. I like wearing my glasses over the top to secure it 🤓

Did you know that leaving a sheet mask on too long is bad for you? Although the lovely sheet mask material is designed to hold tons and tons of moisture, once it’s absorbed into your skin and drying out, it can actually pull it back out of your skin barrier and leave you dryer than when you started! It’s crucial to time a sheet mask correctly (ideally less than 25 min with a maximum benefit of around 15 minutes). 

In fact, those who left the mask on for around the 40 minute mark actually had increased irritation, redness and higher sebum levels (oilier, occluded skin), which is the opposite effect of a good sheet mask. So, don’t forget to time your spa time to be sure to pull off the mask at the right time. 

• Deep Hydration💧
• Soothing redness and dry, flaking skin
• Improves fine lines and wrinkles
• Can be used to help treat skin (including dark spots, acne and wrinkles)
• Easy-to-apply and calming treatment
• Perfect to share with friends and family (for that little relaxing night in)

Now that we're all considering adding a sheet mask to spice up the skincare routine, which one should we pick? Arktastic has you covered with the coolest and best face masks coming out of South Korea right now!

Looking for 30 days of everyday radiance? Meet one of Korea’s favourite, soothing collagen mask. Infused with delicate peptides and low molecular weight collagen, it provides an instant hydration boost for dry skin and fine lines. Coming in a large pack, you can enjoy a little mask moment whenever you like with the deeply hydrating Mary&May pack. These are a staple of those looking to improve their glow with a hypoallergenic choice.

Want to boost dark spots away with the power of fresh, crisp green tangerine extract? These brightening, hydrating masks are infused in a soft, Tencel microfiber and boosted with brightening vitamin C to energize the skin and reduce uneven textures. This antioxidant-rich formula is designed to soothe the complexion, reduce appearance of fine line and redness. 

Harkening back to the beautiful Joseon era, this mask set is made of lightweight Tencel infused with calming centella asciatica extract to immediate vanish redness, calm irritated and acne-prone skin and breathe deep hydration into the skin barrier. It is balanced with soothing green tea, mugwort extract to calm and a trio of hyaluronic acid for nourishing moisture. It’s the perfect mask set for sensitive and irritated skin looking for a refresh.

Looking for a whole month of radiance? Medicube has got you covered with their incredibly popular Vita C line. Made of 100% vegan, cellulose sheets these rich, lightweight masks are infused with brightening sea buckthorn extract, 4-Vitamin Complex, nicacinamide and acetyl glucosamine to soften, brighten and firm fine lines. It’s a deep, juicy infusion of nutrients for your skin that will have you looking glowy in seconds. 

Dr Jart+ is one of the most trusted, clinical Korean beauty brands designed for high-quality products that unveil a whole new look. The Ceramidin Cream-Infused Mask Pack is the most hydration that you can get in a face mask, with up to 24 hours of enhanced moisture. It's incredibly ideal for dry and irritated skin that needs a deep hydration reset. 

It's our top pick for the sheet mask that will make your skin glow in real-time and the only downside is you may become addicted to the creamy, cooling face mask feel. 

Still not sure you've found your sheet mask favourite? Check out the amazing range of skincare available on Arktastic. With only authentic Korean beauty sourced directly from Seoul, we're sure to have your perfect fit.

Check out the for a 🖤Black Friday Sale🖤 for a limited time only. Complete with amazing deals on all the best in skincare right now. 

Otherwise, check out more sheet masks here:

Want to know how Dr Jart+ got started in skincare? Check out our blog to the origins of Dr Jart+ and their skincare journey. Or check out our review of K-Beauty's hottest face mask; Biodance Bio-Collagen Mask review.

Why are sheet masks so popular in Korea?

Sheet masks are a popular part of Korean skincare because they offer convenient hydration, help soothe the skin and leave it looking refreshed and glowing.

What are the benefits of Korean sheet masks?

Korean sheet masks help hydrate dry skin, temporarily improve the appearance of fine lines, soothe irritation and support a healthy-looking skin barrier.

How often should you use a sheet mask?

Most people can use a sheet mask 1–3 times per week. Some gentle hydrating masks may be suitable for daily use, depending on your skin type and the ingredients.

How long should you leave a Korean sheet mask on?

Most sheet masks should be left on for approximately 10–20 minutes, depending on the product instructions. Avoid leaving them on until completely dry.

Which Korean sheet mask is best for sensitive skin?

Look for calming ingredients such as centella asiatica, heartleaf, green tea and hyaluronic acid. The Beauty of Joseon Centella Asiatica Calming Mask is one option featured in our guide.

Can Korean sheet masks help with dark spots?

Sheet masks containing brightening ingredients such as vitamin C and niacinamide may help improve the appearance of uneven skin tone with consistent use.

Should you apply moisturiser after a sheet mask?

Yes. After removing your sheet mask, gently pat in the remaining essence and apply moisturiser to help retain hydration.