Unmasking Face Masks: The Science of Self-Care
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4 min
Ever slap on a mask and wonder: am I actually helping my skin, or finding an excuse to doomscroll on TikTok?
Behind every slap-on wonder - from sheet to gel or creamy layer - is more than just a surface-level pamper moment! When you peel back the layers of K-Beauty’s favourite skincare step, masking is pure science; real ingredients working in real time to deliver real results... That is, when done correctly. It’s about seeing your skin’s signals and choosing the right mask at the right time.
Starting to sound complex? It isn’t really - we’ve opened the seal to functional self-care and are here to walk you through the mood swings, highs and lows, and all the in-betweens so you can truly relax, knowing you’re building resilience, feeding your skin, and soothing stresses during rough times.
The method to masking:
Sheet Masks
(As You Wish)
Pouches of goodness that we all love to collect! Individually wrapped like a little evening treat, these are a K-Beauty staple for good reason. Whatever your skin’s craving, they probably have it - soothe, firm or a quick moisture boost? Stop for a second and take a shot of an essence-soaked sheet of your choice.
No need to press pause for long - whenever your skin needs it, apply the sheet mask after a quick cleanse and tone and leave for 10-20 minutes! Don’t leave on for longer than recommended, or you’ll risk having the reverse effect and dry out your skin.
Everyday Essentials:
🌟 The pick-me-up for a luminous glow aka. Pyunkang Yul Brightening Maskpack for Porcelain Skin Set wakes up tired skin for an even glow while keeping your barrier strong.
🍃 Our HIKOCO Hi, Soothing Tencel Sheet Mask is the go-to for hot and bothered skin that needs a quick hug! Pop on after a day in the sun to cool down redness in an instant.
Hydrogel Masks
(Recovery Mode)
A refreshing drink; that crisp and cool sensation, jelly-like texture and the way it hugs your face is everything your skin cries for after a long day. Feeling parched or dulled by the sun? Quench your face with a surge of moisture with the bonus of targeted ingredients! It’s refreshing, soothing, and great for a little extra boost before a special occasion.
Apply after your usual cleanse and toner 1-3 times a week and leave for around 15-20 minutes (or as directed). Always follow with moisturiser to lock in all the goodness. Want a little extra magic? Try chilling the mask before use.
Hydration Heroes:
💧 Rejuvenate with VT Cosmetic PDRN Hydrogel Mask that quite literally oozes with hydrating botanicals and PDRN that amplifies that hydration from within.
🪸 Infused with 10% Pure Kelp Ferment, Biodance Refreshing Sea Kelp Real Deep Mask Set is 100% for oily or congested skin craving some calm stability and extra hydration.
Wash-Off Masks
(Reset & Refresh)
The end of a busy work week calls for a deep clean and reboot, and a wash-off and exfoliating mask makes all the difference. These masks are a great way to clear out and soothe your clogged pores after staring at screens all day… Did you know this can actually disrupt your skin? Fear not - fight digital dehydration and dead skin buildup!
After cleansing, layer on the mask to your dry face and let it dry. Wait 10-15 minutes or as directed, then gently rinse off with lukewarm water (not too hot or cold!). Hot water will strip your skin and leave it irritated, and cold water may leave excess product. Follow with your regular routine!
Weekly Wellness:
☁️ After that classic, satisfying deep cleanse, but gentle? Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Mud Pack is infused with Panthenol and Allantoin so you can clear pores out without stripping skin.
🧊 Cool down and restart inflamed, bumpy and reactive skin with I’m From Mugwort Mask designed to cool down, smooth and keep your skin calm. Stressed? They’ve got your face.
Sleeping Masks
(Overnight Revamp)
Effortless repair - literally. Rest on and wake up to quenched, glowy skin with the help of overnight masks that lock in moisture and actives from your night routine, ensuring no drop goes to waste. These are super ideal for dry or compromised skin that’s been exposed to the cold or strong winds (perfect for winter!)
Add on as the final step of your routine - a generous, even layer after your moisturiser, leave to dry (15-30 minutes), then get your beauty sleep with a little extra magic! Avoid applying too many products underneath if you have sensitive skin - everything in moderation.
Sweet Dreams:
🏜️ Bounce back from dry, dehydrated skin with Isntree Gim PDRN Deep Sleep Mask ! Feed your skin nutrition and repairing activities so you can wake up plump and youthful.
🌪️ Skin taken a hit from the dreary weather and tough times? Mary & May’s Calendula Peptide Ageless Sleeping Mask is calling to rebuild damaged barriers with a soothing touch.
There’s a certain magic to pressing pause, putting on a face mask, and switching off from the rest of the world - with the comfort in knowing that you’re doing something right for your skin. When you choose the right mask for your skin’s needs, you’re opening up space for true relaxation and every soothing layer and clarifying reboot becomes purposeful, refreshing, and a small act of kindness. Mask up - even when it’s just for a quick ten.
Time to R & R, Beauties x
