Some would say the best part of getting a facial is the thorough, deep cleansing that happens as soothing steam brushes against your skin, or the sheer satisfaction of knowing almost every piece of gunk has been removed during extractions. Still, there’s one element of a facial that feels like the cherry on top—and in a way, it is: hydrogel sheet masks.
“A hydrogel face mask is a type of sheet mask made from a gel-like material that holds hydration better than traditional cotton or fiber masks,” explains Kristyn Smith, an aesthetician and the founder of Practise NYC. “The texture allows it to mold closely to the skin, ensuring that active ingredients absorb more effectively.” These types of masks exploded in popularity over the past decade as Korean skin care infiltrated our routines, becoming more than just an aesthetically pleasing prop in an Instagram selfie. Hydrogel masks are inherently cooling, which helps calm inflamed skin. Plus, cotton masks can feel a little rough, almost like they’re sucking moisture out of the skin as they dry, but hydrogel ones are smooth and occlusive, kind of like rubber.
“If your skin feels dry, tired, or dull, a hydrogel mask is one of the fastest ways to plump, soothe, and refresh it,” adds Dr. Asmi Berry, a Los Angeles-based dermatologist. Plus, several updated options come spliced in two for an even snugger fit, dipped in cool colors for the Instagram selfie you absolutely will take, or that can sit overnight for the ultimate glow in the morning.
We gathered a few of ELLE’s editor favorites, consulted the skin experts above, and combed through customer reviews to compile a list of the six best hydrogel face masks. With these formulas, firmer, glowier, younger-looking skin can arrive overnight. You and your skin are in for a treat.
