Face masks have a wide range of applications and come in a variety of media, including clay, gel, cream, sheets, and more. They stand out from the rest of your skin care routine. “Masks are typically not used daily, like a cleanser, moisturizer, or sunscreen,” explains board-certified dermatologist Brendan Camp, M.D. Nonetheless, they feel as important as the items you use every morning and night. Perhaps this can be attributed to their unique dual character of blending luxury with potency. “Face masks are an indulgence and can help target or address specific skin concerns,” according to Dr. Camp. “They are formulated to deliver a high concentration of active ingredients to help address particular concerns, like dryness, dullness, acne, or discoloration.”
Some masks pamper and perfect better than others, so InStyle editors evaluated dozens of formulations to see which refine, soothe, hydrate, and outperform the rest, so you know which ones to add to your routine once or twice each week.
What We Love: This hydrogel mask is a must-have for anyone wishing to smooth out skin texture, reduce pores, and restore an out-of-this-world shine. Whereas some sheet masks take weeks to show any meaningful results, our tester Janea observed a glowing change with just one use. Niacinamide brightens, low-weight molecular hyaluronic acid locks in moisture, collagen peptides increase elasticity, and mineral-rich galactomyces leave skin smooth, moisturized, and plumped. It appears to be an IRL blurring tool for pores and fine wrinkles. Even better? The results lasted—our tester noticed her skin remained nourished for days after applying it.
Who It Is For: This mask is an excellent solution for those who do not have time for self-care. Wear it overnight for even better results—the mask’s serum absorbs overnight, leaving you with glowing, refreshed skin.
Worth noting: Our tester noticed that the mask isn’t particularly durable, and it takes a few tries to get acclimated to the application. However, once learned, the benefits much outweigh the difficulties.
Janea, a tester with normal skin, said, “When I removed the mask in the morning, my complexion looked so much better than it usually does when I wake up. Wearing the mask overnight allows the substance to penetrate into my skin without interference from outside elements. I’d trade my favorite face mask for this one in a heartbeat.
What We Love: This anti-aging solution contains black rose to smooth the skin, padina pavonica to freshen and renew the complexion, and shea butter to nourish and soothe the skin’s barrier. What makes this product worthwhile is its capacity to successfully reduce the appearance of tired skin—it immediately revitalizes complexions, leaving skin glowing, dewy, and luminous.
Who It’s For: Those looking for a moisturizing hero, this mask will leave their skin feeling visibly softer, smoother, bouncier, and plumper after each use. Because the mask deeply hydrates the skin, it becomes more supple and helps to decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, resulting in long-term results.
While she still enjoyed the mask, our tester with combination skin remarked that it left a little oily feel around her T-zone, indicating that it should be reserved for dry skin types or used as a spot treatment on dry regions.
Alyssa, a tester with mixed skin, said, “This face mask hydrates well.” My skin improved noticeably after using the face mask. It feels softer, looks smoother, and is clearly plumper.”
What We Love: You’ve probably heard about Beauty of Joseon’s popular Korean sunscreen. The much-hyped Korean cosmetic brand is recognized for its effective products, and this honey and rice powder mask is no exception. It mildly exfoliates and brightens—our tester Amanda appreciated how soothing it felt on her skin, almost like oatmeal with a cooling sensation, and how it instantly transformed an ordinary Wednesday into a spa experience.
Who It’s For: Because the mask includes an adorable tiny skincare spoon, it’s ideal for anybody who values mess-free application—as well as the ability to put product in hard-to-reach areas like under the eyes or along the nose.
Worth noting: Our tester found that the gritty solution was difficult to remove, and while it left her face bright and fresh, it was not the most moisturizing option; we recommend using a moisturizer afterward.
Amanda, a tester with puffy, dry skin, stated, “I adore the rapid effects. I also had a faint glow afterward, and my red patches from a pimple extraction were less red. My skin didn’t feel or appear particularly hydrated afterward, and while I like an intensely hydrated result from a mask to help prevent puffiness, this clearly delivered on the soothing and brightening effect it promised.”
