No matter how you choose to practice self-care, using a face mask is one of the most ideal options when it comes to chilling out your skin. Both rinse-off and sheet masks are popular options. But when it comes to face masks, are they created equal? Which one is the better option when it comes to your complexion? Let’s look at the differences between them to decide.

What are Sheet Masks?

Sheet masks are a single use prepackaged mask. They are thin and have been pre-cut and infused with skincare ingredients. Typically, these masks are made of materials like paper, fiber, or thin films, which work to hydrate the skin.

According to board-certified New Jersey dermatologist Dr. Karan Lal, sheet masks can be saturated with ingredients like collagen, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and glycolic acid. Since they are meant to be on the skin for a limited time, these masks often contain more concentrated levels of these components, aiding in the penetration of the ingredients into the skin.

How Do You Use Sheet Masks?

They are pretty darn easy to use. After cleansing, just open the package and put the mask on your face, then let it sit for the instructed amount of time. They have holes pre cut for your eyes, nose, and mouth so they are pretty comfortable. Most of them have a cooling sensation. When you’re done just toss the mask in the trash and rub in the leftover product into your skin. 

The ingredients from the mask are meant to soak in the skin, not be washed off. These have a major advantage because they provide fast skincare results. Due to being saturated with more potent ingredients, they only require a brief application. 

What are Rinse off Face Masks?

Now let’s look at the rinse-off option. Rather than being high in active ingredients, these masks are generally formulated with thicker bases like clay, charcoal, or cream. The advantages of rinse-off face masks depend on their ingredients. According to Dr. Avnee Shah of the Schweiger Dermatology Group in New Jersey, “It can be possible to achieve a brighter complexion and exfoliation with glycolic acid or a deeper cleanse with clay.”

How Do You Use a Rinse off Mask?

These are also pretty simple to use. Rinse-off masks typically come in a bigger container, and are usually meant to be used weekly. After cleansing, they should be left to sit on the skin for 15-20 minutes (per instructions), and then removed with lukewarm water. After rinsing just follow up with your serums and moisturizer.

How to Choose Between a Sheet and Rinse-Off Mask?

In order to determine which type of mask is right for your skin-care routine, there are a few points to consider. Primarily, think about the end result you are hoping for: a sheet mask is ideal for an extra dose of moisture, while a rinse-off face mask is great for tackling congested pores. 

It’s vital to follow the instructions for each mask to get the optimal results. For instance, if you don’t have 20 minutes for the mask to sit on your face, it may be best to choose something that doesn’t require that much time. You want it to work after all. According to Dr. Shah, sheet masks provide quicker results, though these are typically only temporary, whereas wash-off masks may show that effects take place over time and last for longer. We hope this little breakdown helps you pick the best mask for some quality me-time!