Sheet Masks, Unmasked: The Most Common Questions About Using Korean Sheet Masks

So, you’re chasing that supple, glowy skin—the kind that makes you feel effortlessly confident? We get it. Trying new skincare can feel a little overwhelming, but don’t worry—we’ve got you (and your face) covered.

At Mask Marie, we’re firm believers in keeping skincare simple and efficient. Sheet masks are the easiest way to give your skin a boost—hydrating, calming, and reviving your glow in just minutes. Think of them as your self-care shortcut to healthy, happy skin.

Born in Korea, sheet masks started as an at-home extension of professional spa facials—beloved for their results and simplicity. What began as a K-beauty staple has since become a worldwide skincare ritual, loved by glow-getters everywhere for delivering instant nourishment and visible radiance.

Here, we’re answering the most common sheet mask questions we hear—from how often to use them, to whether you really need serum underneath. Get ready to glow smarter, not harder.

Mask Marie's Sheet Mask FAQ

• Why should I use a sheet mask? What are they for?
  

Sheet masks are an easy way to enhance your skincare routine, providing a boost of hydration and nourishment in just 10-20 minutes. They’re a quick, affordable alternative to salon facials, leaving your skin refreshed, glowing, and cared for—all from the comfort of home!

• How do I use sheet masks?
  

Start with clean, dry skin. Gently unfold the mask and place it over your face, aligning it with your eyes, nose, and mouth. Leave it on for 10-20 minutes, then remove and pat any leftover serum into your skin—no need to rinse. Enjoy the glow! 

• How often should I use a sheet mask?

It depends! It is recommended to use sheet masks 2-3 times a week, but hydrating or soothing masks can be used daily if you have dry skin and it can handle the extra moisture. Masks with strong active ingredients (like exfoliating acids or retinol) should be used less frequently, about once a week.

• When in my skincare routine should I use a sheet mask?
  

It’s ideal to use a sheet mask after cleansing and toning but before applying your moisturizer. This allows your skin to easily absorb the serum and ultimately reap the most benefits from the mask!

• How long should I leave a sheet mask on?

Typically, 15-20 minutes is recommended, but follow directions on packaging as it depends on the active ingredients. There are, however, some sheet masks that are made to be worn overnight, or for hours at a time, so be sure to check the packaging! Also remember that overnight masks can be effective even with just a couple of hours of use.

Regardless, leaving a mask on for too long can cause the sheet to dry out and start pulling moisture back from your skin so always check the instructions or take them off if the mask feels like it is drying up.

• Should I wash my face after using a sheet mask?

No, you don’t need to rinse your face after a sheet mask. Instead, pat the leftover serum into your skin to soak in all of that goodness. Washing your face will prevent the active ingredients from being fully absorbed.

• Can I re-use a sheet mask?

No. Sheet masks are designed for single use. Reusing them could introduce bacteria to your skin and diminish the effectiveness of the remaining serum. Pro tip: for moisturizing masks, especially, lathering the leftover serum from the mask on your neck, chest, hands, elbows, or knees can make use of any unabsorbed liquid!

• Can I use a sheet mask in the morning?

Absolutely! Especially in the winter months or if you have dry skin, a sheet mask in the morning can hydrate your skin and create a smooth base for makeup. Preferably, a lightweight or gel-based mask will refresh your skin without leaving a heavy or sticky feeling. Check out our No Drip Mask Edit for our favorite mess-free masks!

• Is it okay to use a sheet mask on sensitive or acne-prone skin?
  

Yes! There are masks for everyone, no matter the skin type. For those with sensitive or acne-prone skin, it is recommended to use masks with calming and non-comedogenic ingredients like Centella Asiatica, aloe vera, or tea tree oil.

If you have sensitive skin and want to give Korean masks a try, look through our Sensitive Skin collection for some of Korea's most soothing, restorative masks and more.

• Can I wear a sheet mask while lying down?
  

Yes! This is why sheet masks are a perfect way to relax and unwind. In fact, lying down is often the best way to ensure the mask stays in place and the serum absorbs evenly. So lean back, and feel your bliss. 

• What should I do with the leftover serum in the packet?
  

Don’t waste it. Simply apply the excess serum to other dry areas on your body, like your neck, chest, hands, or even knees and elbows, for extra hydration. Don't let any of the good stuff go to waste!

• Can I use other skincare products after a sheet mask?
  

Yes, we recommend applying a cream moisturizer to lock in the amazing skin nurturing serum from the sheet mask. If you use the mask at night, finish it off with your usual skincare routine, including any eye cream or spot treatments. If you're masking during the day, don't forget to put on some sunscreen after you mask.

• Are sheet masks suitable for all skin types?

Yes. Sheet masks come with a wide range of serums and active ingredients to suit different skin types, from oily and acne-prone to dry and sensitive. Just be sure to check the ingredients list and skin type recommendations on the packaging, or on the Mask Marie website, to find the right mask for you.

• Can men use Korean sheet masks?

Of course! Skincare is for everyone, and sheet masks work the same regardless of gender. For those with facial hair, masks designed for hydration, soothing, or controlling excess oil can be beneficial for post-shave irritation. We also see men cutting off the bottom half of the sheet mask, especially if they have a full beard, for ease of use and comfort while masking.

• Should I refrigerate my sheet masks?
  

Refrigerating sheet masks is recommended although not required. For that extra soothing sensation, refrigerating your masks can make them especially refreshing after a long day or during hot weather. It’s also a great way for menopausal women to cool off from those irritating hot flashes!

• Do sheet masks expire?

Yes, all sheet masks come with an expiration date, which is typically on the back of the packaging along the bottom seal or stamped on the box. The active ingredients in expired masks may no longer be effective and can irritate the skin, so it is best to avoid them past the expiration date.

• Are expensive sheet masks better than cheaper ones?
  

Not necessarily! Many affordable sheet masks deliver amazing results. We recommend mixing things up — use budget-friendly masks for daily care, and save the high-performance ones for special occasions or whenever you want an extra boost. That way, your skin (and your wallet) both stay happy.

• Can I layer sheet masks one after another?
  

While it’s not harmful, it can be excessive. Your skin can only absorb so much at one time. Try focusing on using one mask and allowing it to absorb before applying other skincare products. Also, if you’re trying out a series of different sheet masks, we recommend you take a day or two in between so you can really see which mask works best for you.

• Can I use a sheet mask if I have makeup on?

No. You want your sheet mask to have direct contact with your skin for the best absorption—and to prevent makeup or dirt from clogging your pores. Always apply your mask to clean, makeup-free skin. Check out our Cleanser Collection to find your perfect prep before masking.

• Are sheet masks better than regular serums or creams?
  

Different skincare products serve different purposes! Sheet masks aren’t necessarily “better,” but they’re actually more effective than a regular serum because each mask is soaked in a concentrated dose of serum and sealed against your skin for 15–20 minutes, allowing deeper absorption. So think of masking as your serum step — no need for an extra one! Just follow up with a good moisturizer (as we mentioned earlier in the blog) to lock in all that nourishment and hydration.

• Ok, I'm ready to try some Korean sheet masks. Where do I start?

If you’re unsure of where to begin, we’ve made it easy for you. Our First Love Korean Sheet Mask Set is the perfect way to explore the world of Korean masks. Thoughtfully curated with 9 unique masks from top Korean brands, this set lets you experience everything from soothing hydration and brightening Vitamin C to collagen-rich firming treatments—and even a hand mask for full self-care. It’s a fun, beginner-friendly way to discover what your skin loves most while indulging in the magic of Korean skincare.

We hope we’ve covered everything you need to know, but if you have more questions about using sheet masks, browse through our blogs, and feel free to reach out to us via our chat messaging system or by emailing us at info@maskmarie.com. We're here to help.