Korean Face Masks

Face masks are an extra step that gives skin a concentrated dose of care. They are not essential, but they are an easy way to boost hydration, calm skin or deep-clean pores once or twice a week.

K-Beauty popularized the sheet mask: a fabric or hydrogel sheet soaked in serum. Korean routines also include sleeping masks, applied as the last step at night, and wash-off masks such as clay or gel formulas.

Masks work best as a complement to a steady daily routine rather than a replacement for it. A hydrating sheet mask before an event can give skin a fresh, dewy look for the evening, while a weekly clay mask can help oily zones feel cleaner. Avoid leaving sheet masks on longer than directed, as they can start to draw moisture back out of the skin as they dry.

How to choose

• Dehydrated or dull skin: hydrating sheet masks. See hydration.
• Dry skin: overnight sleeping masks. See dry skin.
• Oily skin and pores: clay wash-off masks. See visible pores.
• Sensitive skin: masks with centella or mugwort. See sensitive skin.

How to use

Apply sheet masks after toner for the time shown on the pack, then pat in the remaining essence and follow with moisturizer. Sleeping masks go on as the final evening step. Wash-off masks go on clean skin and should be rinsed before they fully dry out. Fit them in with our routine builder.