They are fun and easy… but are sheet masks okay to use if you have acne? And, do they really do anything? Should you break up with your sheet masks?
They claim they have the power to fix nearly any skin complaint you might have — age spots, wrinkles, fine lines, clogged pores, dryness, a lack of “glow” — the list goes on and on.
Sheet masks are the biggest trend in tinsel town, and everyone is falling for it. But do you know how dangerous they could be for your acne prone skin? Unfortunately, sheet masks can have adverse effects on your skin, and instead of giving you an ethereal glow they can wreck it completely.
Acne and Sheet Masks
If someone is prone to breakouts, they may experience an increase in breakouts while wearing face sheet masks. That’s because they trap acne-causing bacteria and sebum on the skin, leading to whiteheads, blackheads, and inflammatory acne.
Sketchy Ingredients in Masks
A sheet mask with hydrating ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid are safer options, but oftentimes they are made with parabens and phthalates, which will irritate your skin.
A clay mask becomes irritating if left on too long, a cleansing mask causes irritant contact dermatitis if left on too long, and finally, an exfoliating mask is the most likely to cause either an irritant response or an unexpected peeling reaction to sensitive acne prone skin.
Unnecessary Step
Sheet masks are drenched in serums.
They are full of products that pamper skin and give it a pick-me-up. But if you have a full-fledged skincare routine in place already with a hydrating toner, cleanser, serum, and moisturizer–then you don’t need a sheet mask. More confirmation that you CAN break up with your sheet masks.
That’s also why you won’t notice a difference upon using one. Sheet masks essentially deliver a surge of moisture to your skin. If your skin is already receiving it all, a sheet mask is a waste of time and money, much like eating when you’re already full.
Sheet Masks are Terrible for the Environment
A lot of sheet masks are made using synthetic fibers, instead of biodegradable materials like cotton. But even if a sheet mask is made of cotton, it often comes wrapped in plastic. This creates a lot of waste, given that sheet masks are just one-time-use products.
The Takeaway
At the end of the day, you need to remember that keeping your routine simple is best. Fads like sheet masks mesmerize people for a while but in the long run, only the tried-and-true techniques last. If you have skin conditions like acne or eczema, it’s best to make an appointment for a consultation before starting a skin regimen or changing things up after a breakout.
There is always a reason for breakouts and we’re here to help you.
Cheers to Clear!
Rene