Paper face masks, aka sheet masks, have always been a HUGE beauty staple for Asian women. But if the concept seems novel to you, read on to find out what’s so special about them!
What Are Paper Masks?
A sheet mask is basically a soft piece of “paper-like” material cut in the shape of a face. It is usually soaked in various types of nutrients and ingredients to provide instant relief and hydration. Paper masks can be used 2-3 times a week, even daily, depending on your skin type.
How to Use Paper Masks
Start with a clean face. Gently spread the mask onto the face and make sure all areas are covered. Leave the mask on for 10 to 15 minutes. Peel it off and massage any remaining essence into the skin.
Paper Mask Reviews
 |
DHC Q10 Mask (US$12) This is available at DHC’s website and comes in a pack of 4. It contains Q10, polyglutamic acid, hyaluronic acid, rosewater and olive leaf extract which are all good for plumping up and firming your skin. My skin did feel softer and smoother after I use this. Also, the scent is not very strong, which is definitely a plus for those with sensitive skin. Thumbs up! |
 |
Kose Clear Turn Moisturizing Mask (US$12) This is definitely one of my favorite masks! It comes in a pack of 5 and each mask is soaked with 28ml of hydrating essence. It is available only in Asia so every time I go back, I stock up on them. Application can be a little messy because the mask is really drippy but it leaves my skin so soft and supple! Definitely check this out when you get the chance! |
 |
Neutrogena Hydrating Cloth Mask (US$9) When I first saw this at the drugstore a few years ago, I was psyched – finally a paper mask made by a widely-available American brand, woohoo! I quickly picked up a pack which contains 4 sheets, went home and tried it on. The mask moisturized my skin pretty well but the result was temporary. Nonetheless, if you are looking for a quick fix, hit up the nearest drugstore and pick this up. If you are looking for something with a more long-lasting effect, skip it. |
How to Make your Own Paper Mask
If paper masks are not readily available where you live, you can make your own by following the steps below:
What You Need
* 7 x 16 cm Cotton Pads
* Hydrating Toner
* Saran Wrap
Step 1. Wet a cotton pad with water and squeeze out excess water.
Step 2. Pour in a quarter-size of your favorite hydrating toner.
Step 3. Make sure the cotton pad is fully soaked with toner.
Step 4. Separate the cotton pad into 5 different layers.
Step 5. Gently stretch each layer a little without breaking them.
Step 6. Spread them onto your face in the following order:
Nose and chin –> Forehead and eye area –> Cheeks (one on each side) –> Neck
Step 7. Wrap your entire face with saran wrap to help trap the moisture so your skin can fully absorb everything.
Step 8. Leave on for 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 9. Gently remove the cotton pads and massage any remaining toner onto your skin until it is fully absorbed.
12 Comments
Hey, cool entry ^^ How often should you use a mask like this? And what kind of toner is good?
Thanks!
Hey Rinoa, how’s it going? =)
Paper masks should be used once to twice a week depending on how dry you skin is. As for toners, simply pick one that is hydrating/whitening without alcohol in it. My picks would be Fancl’s Fenatty Lotion, Kose’s Medicated Sekkisei (this is great for whitening) or simply rosewater.
By the way, I am almost done with your entry about touching up. Check back tomorrow!
thanks for this entry. i was wondering, what toners would you recommend for sensitive, acne-prone skin?
thank you so much philz!
-estah
Hi! Where can I get Freshel here in Chicago? Do you know?=)
Try Mitsuwa near Arlington Heights or let me know what you’re looking for cos I might be able to cp it for you.
Do you get the paper masks in Hong Kong? If so, what store do you get them at? I really want to get them and I live in Hong Kong.
hey Jasmine, you can find these at Sasa and Bonjour.
Hi,
Thanks for this, I’ve been looking for paper masks everywhere. Could you tell me if you have had any experience with Kose Whitening paper masks? They have it on ebay w/ the hyaluronic as well?
Thanks
Hi Phyllis,
I love your website!!! Do you know where in Vancouver BC Canada I can find Kanebo products?
Thanks!!
Amy
Kanebo Freshel White C mask
Kose Clear Turn Moisturizing Mask
Where can I get those?
I love those masks – I tried a different brand out as it was a bit cheaper and I wanted to see if I’d like to get more… I was a bit confused though Phylis – which type do you get of Kose? There were various colours – I couldn’t read the box lol I know there were scented masks – and Q10 – but there were three colors of that brand and I had no idea what they did.. there was pink, yellow and orange I believe…. Do you know the difference? My skin was sooooo dry, I had flakes galore and nothing was helping it. When I exfoliated and used that mask – WOW my skin is sooooo smooth. Thank you so much for the recommendation .. There were so many products at that store I was at – I was so intrigued.
–Amy from Vancouver BC – I’m from Vancouver BC as well – you can find these at any T&T supermarket – I went to the one at MetroTown, there is also a Sasa right next to it (I didn’t go in) but I’m sure they sell it there too..