The Korean 10-step skin care routine, which can actually be more than 10 steps, includes the sheet mask, which is consistently growing in popularity. The sheet mask, affectionately known as the lazy girl’s facial, is comprised of a thin sheet of cotton that has been saturated in any number of liquid formulas. The liquid in which the mask is soaked depends on the desired outcome. The types of sheet masks available range from moisturizing to anti-acne and can include anything from hyaluronic acid and pearl extract to snail secretion. Despite the consumer craze surrounding the sheet mask, many professionals are left wondering whether these masks are actually beneficial for their clients and whether or not they deliver on their promises.

Traditional Versus Sheet Versus Serum
Despite their shared name, the sheet mask does not and should not replace a traditional mask. While the sheet mask does not cleanse and exfoliate the skin like a traditional mask, it does provide an element of moisture retention that is often lost in a traditional clay mask. Clients may also find that sheet masks, although they are one-size-fits-all, may not correctly fit the size and shape of their face. However, unlike a traditional mask, the sheet mask is portable, convenient, and clean. As time is such an important and valuable aspect of every person’s life, many clients enjoy the fact that they do not have to spend 10 minutes washing their face, and often their hair, in order to remove the sheet. It can simply be pulled off with the fluid being massaged into the face for moisture and hydration.
The sheet mask also should not replace the use of a serum. Although the sheet mask has a serum-like fluid that is smoothed into the skin after removal of the mask, a serum should still be used daily. Furthermore, the moisturizing benefits of the sheet mask will not last more than one day. Clients should continue to use their daily serum as directed and think of the sheet mask as an added benefit or treat.

Hydration and Temperature
Although there are a number of sheet masks available that claim to help with lifting, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and fighting acne, they are best used for providing hydration to the skin. When a mask is placed on the face, it increases the skin’s water content. The occlusive nature of the mask causes a decrease in water evaporation, thus increasing the skin’s hydration level and temperature (from about 89.6 to 98.6 degrees). This temperature increase means that the sheet mask might not be ideal for clients with acne-prone skin. Temperature spikes can increase the amount of bacteria that is present on the surface of the skin, which can, in turn, cause breakouts. If acne-prone clients are interested in using a sheet mask, they should first perform a patch test to ensure that they will not have a negative reaction.

The Essence of the Essence
Many Korean women consider the essence to be the most essential step of their skin care regimen. Still largely unknown in the United States, the essence is a highly-enriched, lightweight formula that is created with the goal of enriching the skin and preparing it for oncoming products.