Korean Sheet Masks have been taking over the world of skincare in the U.S. for the past year or so, and with good reason! Soaked in nutrition-packed solutions called serum, these single-use face-shaped sheet masks treat a variety of skincare concerns at an affordable price and can be used as needed, contouring to the face for maximum absorption of moisture. Are you ready to give it a try? Here are five reasons why we love this trend:

Convenience

Sheet masks don’t require a sink or water, making them the ultimate on-the-go mask. The convenient individual packaging also means you can throw one into virtually any bag for later use without having it take up much space, making them a travel essential. Another great thing about sheet masks is that they are incredibly user friendly- just apply the sheet mask to skin, relax for about 20 minutes, take the mask off, rub any remaining product into skin, and ta-da! You’re done!

Iluma Intense Brightening Exfoliating Powder

Affordability

Another great thing about sheet masks is that they are very affordable, costing on average a little less than $3 to $13.50 a  mask. This means that not only will beautiful skin not break the bank, but you can afford to treat your skin more often! In fact, many koreans do, giving way to the trending hashtag #OneMaskADay. Now don’t blame us if you become a sheet mask addict… their low cost only helps fuel the habit! We recommend you use a sheet mask once a week as a special treatment for added glow and hydration.

Variety

Like traditional masks, sheet masks can treat a myriad of skincare concerns, from dry skin to acne. However, beware! Not all face masks are created equal. In fact, many are full of alcohol, PEGs, fragrances, and preservatives. You’re best bet is to do some research and/or read through the list of ingredients prior to purchasing a sheet mask. One easy way to assure that you’re using a quality sheet mask is to use one from a trusted skincare brand, like Image Skincare’s I MASK Anti-aging Radiance Mask, which is formulated with a unique fusion of volcanic water, brightening botanicals, peptides and antioxidants for a youthful appearance and radiant skin.

Hydration

Although there are many variations of sheet masks in the market today claiming different results, one thing you can consistently rely on sheet masks for is hydration. Unlike clay masks which can dry out skin, for example, sheet masks will always add moisture. This is because when you use a sheet mask, the fabric like material of the mask will act as cocoon, keeping moisture in and decreasing the chances of it evaporating from the skin. If you suffer from dry skin, give Image’s I MASK biomolecular hydrating recovery mask a try! Infused with a blend of volcanic water, ginseng root extract, amino acids and anitoxidants, this mask’s hydrogel structure will allow the mask to breathe and trap moisture, helping active ingredients penetrate deeper into the skin.

Efficiency

Another reason to jump on the sheet mask bandwagon is that they really do work! Because they are super concentrated, sheet masks are able to deliver product deep into the skin, leaving you with plumper and brighter skin after just one use. However, do note that it’s important not to exceed the time frame a mask is recommended for, since doing so will cause the sheet to dry out too much and start sucking the moisture back! Also important to note is that sheet masks should never replace traditional skincare regimens, but rather be considered as a special treatment you use here and there to get an added glow.