Have you ever wondered why sheet masks leave your face sticky?
There is one thing many people find frustrating when wearing a sheet mask, which is a sticky face. I mean depending on each individual, this may be an issue for some and not for others.
However, first, let’s look at the issue from a broader perspective to help us understand why this may happen.
The reputation of sheet masks
Undoubtedly, sheet masks are one of the most popular Korean skincare products. They are extremely budget-friendly, effective, and convenient.
According to Dr Khetarpal, sheet masks (or Korean face masks) are excellent for calming sensitive or inflamed skin. In addition to being more hydrating, sheet masks allow the moisturizer to diffuse and be absorbed by the paper directly on the skin.
Since they are relatively easy to use, many people do not consider the ‘undesirable/unwanted’ aspects of them. One of them is that it may leave the face sticky.
What are sheet masks made of? & What are they for? 
Unlike traditional face masks, sheet masks are made with pre-cut fabrics soaked in serums rich in skin-beneficial ingredients such as antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and hyaluronic acid.
These nutrients are retained by the pre-cut fabric and delivered to the skin in close contact.
The main aim of using a sheet mask is to help hydrate, moisturise, nourish, vitalise, soften, and brighten the skin. And depending on the formula used, there is something for everyone.
In particular, people that do suffer from dry skin benefit exceptionally from it and it is important to apply/implement it from time to time.
Related:
*Face mask for dry sensitive skin
Types of sheet masks
*Non-woven fibers: these masks are flat and made of separate fibers. They are hard to move around since they behave like paper. Their moisture evaporates quicker.
*Cotton: these are usually made of natural fibers extracted from the cotton plant. They have a finer texture than fiber.
*Hydrogel: these are typically blends of cosmetic serums with gelatin and they usually perform better than fiber and cotton masks (since you can easily move it around; it is thin and to avoid rapture they often come in separate pieces with a top and bottom part).
*Bio-Cellulose is made of woven microbial cellulose. These do not absorb as much as hydrogel masks do and they are quite expensive.
For more insights, I would highly advise you to go check Skinlibrary.co.uk/sheet-mask
Are sheet masks beneficial then?
Sheet masks can be very beneficial for our skin.
According to skin experts like Dr Goel, sheet masks can bring a huge advantage to the skin if used regularly. They can provide both the right balance of skincare and pampering.
The main benefit of a sheet mask and what they’re known for is that they provide softness and a dewy glow that lasts for some time.
Despite this, masks alone will not improve your skin.
Although they do provide a soft, dewy glow, it only lasts for a short time.
A sheet mask enhances your skincare, but it does not replace it, so make note of it.
Why does it feel sticky?
I bet this was the answer you were looking for! Well, guys, one of the main reasons why your skin may feel sticky is because of the so-called ‘leftover’ essence that can be found on the mask.
The consistency/texture of the product plays a huge role. Usually, high concentrations of hyaluronic acid that sheet masks contain, can leave the skin feeling sticky, says Dr Zeichner (board-certified dermatologist based in New York City).
And no matter what sheet mask you decide to use, they can all potentially make your face feel sticky due to the ‘leftover’ essence on the masks.
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You may then ask:
What is the ‘leftover’ essence?
The essence is an important part/element of the mask. It is packed with an extra serum to make sure that the mask is fully soaked and hydrated by the time it is opened.
In addition, the residue left on your skin after removing the mask is the essence that may make you feel sticky.
Dr Zeichner explained how ticker formulas that may contain serums can often need time to absorb. Considering that masks are packed with it, you should not be surprised if your face feels sticky
Let me tell you that even if it feels sticky, you should take advantage of it! This extra serum can be used as a facial massage, and it can help with drainage and reduce puffiness.
It should therefore be left on your skin to absorb so that it can further penetrate your skin. This can be a helpful element to use to re-moisturise the skin!
Are there any additional reasons?
The other reasons why your face may feel sticky might be for the following reasons:
If too much product is used or too many products are applied without allowing time for absorption, it can cause a sticky texture.
Although many, including Dr Joshua Zeichner, would suggest that too much product makes your skin sticky and you should use less, this is not true for sheet masks. Because a sheet mask is applied/placed all over your face and all the essence is in contact with your skin, it is difficult to avoid excess product going into your skin.
There is no need to worry about leftover essence. Give it time to absorb itself into your skin. That is all you need to do.
Can I avoid stickiness?
No, we could say that it is generally hard to prevent it from occurring. But there are ways in which you can make it less likely to happen by considering the following:
*Using a sleeping pack after your routine (and after applying a sheet mask), might help your skin not to feel sticky.
*Or use a mask containing water-based serums. The latter has the advantage that excess product simply evaporates away from the skin.
How to use the mask effectively?
Duration: It is ideal to keep the mask on your face between 15 to 25 mins no more than that. Never leave a sheet mask on overnight.
Sheet masks that are left on until they dry will reverse the effects because the sheet will begin to reabsorb moisture from the skin
Usage: It is recommended to implement a face mask or sheet mask into your routine once or twice a week.
Right order: Cleaning your face, toning, and applying a facial essence are the first steps.
Before applying any other products, let the serum absorb into your skin.
Afterwards, apply a moisturiser and warm the cream on your fingers to help the cream penetrate deeper. Use upward movements to massage the cream into the skin.
Utilize a sheet mask without washing your face to benefit from the hydrating residue left behind and let it absorb into the skin.
To conclude
Let’s look at the mistakes that you need to avoid when applying a sheet mask:
*Don’t forget to wash your hands beforehand – hygiene is important.
*Using an expire mask
*Applying the mask incorrectly
*Not applying it in the correct order.
You should choose a sheet mask that is best for your skin type or addresses your specific skin concern.
*Don’t keep the mask on your face for too long.
*Not using the remaining essence in the sachet.
*If it gives you sticky feelings, know that is normal. You should take full advantage of it by tapping it into your face to encourage blood flow to the surface of the skin.
*Do not wash your face right after the sheet mask. The latter should be left to the skin to absorb it further.
*Remember to moisturise right after and never cleanse your face after using a sheet mask.
Drop any questions down in the comments!
