Soaked masks: the best sheet masks for quick beauty

Soaked mask, impregnated mask, sheet mask or gel mask… These new single-use treatments have a multitude of names, but share the same and unique aim: to marry our skin to beautify it immediately. Laure Custodero, communication director at Evoluderm, tells us about it (and makes us want a cocooning break).

Inspired by Korean beauty rituals, these masks are cut to the shape of the face (or part of it) in order to fit its contours like a second skin when applied. “ As soft as silk, they are suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin and serve as a support for cosmetic treatments”. Each soaked mask has its action.

What are the differences between a sheet mask and a gel mask?

It is a mask that can be soaked or not.

Gel mask

The principle of a gel mask is the same as for a soaked mask since they are also filled with a care solution. The difference lies in the material of the support. “They consist of a thin layer of gel containing a set of active ingredients and nutrients. This so-called “hydrogel” material helps preserve the moisture content of the mask, thus giving it a second-skin effect. Thus, the contact and the transmission of the active ingredients with the skin are guaranteed. Moreover, it offers the same type of benefits as impregnated fabric masks. The exposure time varies and can be extended up to 30 or even 45 minutes. What a real moment of relaxation.

Conversely, the expert explains to us that other gel masks can be “hermetic” and do not allow this exchange of active ingredients between the mask and the skin. It is therefore more of a mechanical effect on the surface of the epidermis than a real skincare benefit”, concludes the pro.

Soaked masks: how to use them well?

A soaked mask can be used once or twice a week, preferably in the evening. To begin with, it is important to specify that “the mask must be applied to cleansed, cleansed and ideally exfoliated skin to optimize the absorption of active ingredients by the skin”, insists the pro. Then, place to action. Unfold the mask and gently apply it to the face, taking care to adjust its contours. The exposure time – generally 10 to 20 minutes for optimal action – will allow the mask to diffuse the liquid with which it is soaked and the skin to absorb it. Warning: “do not exceed the exposure time indicated to prevent the mask from drying out, warns the expert. As it is in fabric, it would begin to reabsorb all the hydration that you have just offered to your epidermis”. A counter-productive action that we do not want! Once the mask is removed, do not rinse. It is appropriate to “massage the face in circular movements” so that the treatment continues to penetrate the skin. Then, any excess is wiped off with a cotton ball.

One last tip for the road? Immediately after removing the mask, use a jade roller to massage excess serum into the skin of the face in circular motions, from the inside out, to stimulate lymphatic drainage. Insist on the eye contour to eliminate dark circles and puffiness.