The 5 Best Sheet Masks to Lock in Moisture and Hydration
Nothing delivers a surge of hydration quite like a sheet mask. While traditional creams and serums work to infuse moisture over time, the best sheet masks act as an instant pick-me-up, drenching your skin in nourishing ingredients for a plumper, dewier look. These single-use wonders form a barrier that locks in moisture, allowing your skin to absorb every last drop of hydrating goodness while you sit back and relax.
No matter your skin type, a good sheet mask can be a game-changer. Dry skin craves rich, replenishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides, while oily and combination skin benefits from lightweight hydration that won’t clog pores. Even sensitive skin can enjoy the soothing embrace of a well-formulated sheet mask. To help you find your new hydration hero, our team of beauty enthusiasts tested 20 of the most popular hydrating sheet masks on the market. Below, we’re revealing the five that truly delivered a next-level glow.
Best Picks
1. SK-II Facial Treatment Mask
If your skin is feeling parched and in need of a serious boost, the SK-II Facial Treatment Mask is a must-try. This iconic mask is infused with Pitera, a proprietary blend of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that work together to deeply hydrate, brighten, and smooth skin. The luxurious cotton mask is drenched in a rich essence, leaving your complexion looking plumper and more radiant after just one use.
Key Ingredients: Pitera, Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate, Butylene Glycol
Why We Love It:
Delivers an instant glow and dewy finish
Feels ultra-soothing and pampering
Leaves skin soft, smooth, and hydrated for hours
2. Dr. Jart+ Dermask Water Jet Vital Hydra Solution
Dr. Jart+ is known for its science-backed skincare, and the Water Jet Vital Hydra Solution sheet mask does not disappoint. This mask is designed to deeply hydrate without making the skin feel greasy or heavy. Packed with hyaluronic acid and seaweed extract, it replenishes moisture levels and strengthens the skin barrier, making it a great option for those experiencing dehydration or seasonal dryness.
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Seaweed Extract, Xylitol
Why We Love It:
Lightweight yet intensely hydrating
Soothes redness and irritation
Strengthens the skin barrier with long-term use
3. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Mask
For a fuss-free yet ultra-hydrating experience, the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Mask is a drugstore favorite that delivers. Infused with hyaluronic acid, this sheet mask quenches dry skin instantly and provides a refreshing, cooling effect. Its hydrogel material ensures maximum absorption, leaving skin plump and supple without feeling greasy.
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin
Why We Love It:
Affordable yet highly effective
Lightweight and non-sticky finish
Cooling sensation that refreshes the skin
4. Garnier SkinActive Moisture Bomb Sheet Mask
If you’re short on time but need a hydration boost, the Garnier SkinActive Moisture Bomb Sheet Mask is a game-changer. This mask is soaked in antioxidant-rich pomegranate extract and hyaluronic acid, offering deep hydration while helping to revitalize dull skin. It’s a great pick for those who want a fresh, radiant complexion in just 15 minutes.
Key Ingredients: Pomegranate Extract, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C
Why We Love It:
Instantly revives and brightens skin
Super affordable and widely available
Refreshing and non-greasy formula
5. TONYMOLY I’m Real Watermelon Mask Sheet
For a burst of refreshing hydration, the TONYMOLY I’m Real Watermelon Mask Sheet is a fantastic choice. Infused with watermelon extract and centella asiatica, this mask provides a cooling effect while replenishing moisture. Its three-layer pulp sheet ensures maximum absorption of the nourishing essence, leaving skin feeling hydrated and soothed.
Key Ingredients: Watermelon Extract, Centella Asiatica, Sodium Hyaluronate
Why We Love It:
Provides a cooling, soothing sensation
Refreshing watermelon scent
Hydrates without a sticky finish
How to Use a Sheet Mask for Maximum Hydration
- Start with clean skin: Wash your face and apply toner to prep your skin for better absorption.
Apply the mask: Gently unfold the sheet mask and smooth it onto your face, ensuring it fits snugly around your features.
Relax and let it work: Leave the mask on for 15-20 minutes—don’t exceed the recommended time to prevent reverse osmosis, where moisture is drawn back out of your skin.
Pat in the excess essence: After removing the mask, gently pat the remaining serum into your skin instead of washing it off.
Seal it in: Follow up with a moisturizer to lock in hydration and keep your skin plump and dewy.
How often should I use a hydrating sheet mask?
Hydrating sheet masks can be used anywhere from 2-3 times a week to daily, depending on your skin’s needs. If your skin is extremely dry or dehydrated, incorporating a mask into your nightly routine can help restore moisture levels. However, for most people, using a hydrating sheet mask every other day or a few times per week provides excellent results without overloading the skin.
Should I wash my face after using a sheet mask?
No, you should not wash your face after using a sheet mask. The serum left on your skin is packed with hydrating and nourishing ingredients that continue to absorb after you remove the mask. Instead of washing it off, gently pat the remaining serum into your skin and follow up with a moisturizer to seal in the hydration.
Can sheet masks replace my moisturizer?
While sheet masks provide a powerful burst of hydration, they should not replace your moisturizer entirely. A moisturizer acts as a barrier to lock in moisture and prevent water loss from the skin. Using a sheet mask followed by a good moisturizer ensures maximum hydration and long-lasting benefits.
Are hydrating sheet masks suitable for oily or acne-prone skin?
Yes! Hydration is essential for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin. Many people with oily skin avoid hydration, fearing it will make them greasier, but dehydration can actually trigger excess oil production. Look for sheet masks with lightweight, non-comedogenic ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, or green tea extract to hydrate without clogging pores.
Can I use a sheet mask before applying makeup?
Absolutely! Using a hydrating sheet mask before makeup application can create a plump, smooth canvas, helping foundation and concealer go on more evenly. To get the best results, apply the sheet mask about 30 minutes before your makeup routine. After removing the mask, let the serum fully absorb, then apply a lightweight moisturizer and primer before foundation.