You can't visit your favorite beauty store without being bombarded with options for the newest, coolest Asian beauty or K-beauty masks anymore. So, what do they actually do? And which ones seriously work? We have the scoop.
Charcoal Masks
Charcoal masks are touted for their many benefits, including removing blackheads and impurities from the skin. DIY charcoal masks involve smearing a thick, black paste onto the skin. Once dry, pull and peel the mask off to remove gunk from your pores. However, be forewarned: these types of face masks are a serious pain to remove! They aren't for the faint of heart because they can remove your skin and hair along with the impurities they're taking with them. Ouch! Just google “charcoal face mask gone wrong” . . .
Algae Masks
Algae or seaweed masks have also received a lot of buzz recently! Algae masks are marketed to those who are looking to improve skin moisture and smooth skin that is irritated. Algae masks are also typically painted on by hand and harden on the face. Easier than a charcoal mask to remove, these masks typically wash off in warm water. While algae offers a variety of skin benefits, not all masks are created equal. Benefits can vary depending on how the seaweed was processed and the exact type.
Sheet Masks
Chances are you've gotten a few pics of your friends in sheet masks that look more like a horror film than skin care. Sheet masks are single-use, disposable, at-home facial treatments that can quickly make a huge impact on your skin. Shaped like a paper cutout of your face, with holes for your eyes, nose, and mouth, these come readily available to treat a variety of skincare concerns, from dullness to hydration. Pick a problem, and there's a face mask for it! Plus, cleanup takes no time at all — just peel off and massage excess liquid into your skin.
For a dull-skin pick-me-up, try the SK-II Brightening Derm Revival Mask ($170). This clarifying and moisture-boosting mask is infused with skin-conditioning and radiance-enhancing ingredients that immerse your skin with moisture, visibly diminishing the appearance of spots and other imperfections.
If your goal is smooth, beautiful, younger-looking skin, then the SK-II Facial Treatment Mask ($135) is right up your alley. In a single use, skin is immediately hydrated to reveal more radiant skin. That's why it won the InStyleBest Beauty Buys award for “Best Mask” in 2014, 2015, 2016, AND 2017!
Pamper yourself with the facial mask of your choice and enjoy a little me-time. And a little glass of wine on the side never hurts, either!
This content was created by SK-II.
