Different Types of Face Masks for the Skin: Mud, Gel, Sheet Masks & More

Mud and gel and sheet masks, oh my!

In the world of face masks, you have so many options to choose from. So, how do you know which is the best for your skin type and beauty goals?

The different types of face masks for skin all offer different benefits, and some may be better for your unique complexion than others. Read on to learn the ins and outs of the different types of face masks for all your beauty and skincare needs.

Different Types of Face Masks for Skincare

Skincare face masks come in so many varieties, it can be hard to keep up. Consider this your guide to the best face masks you can find!

Sheet Masks

Sheet masks are by far the most versatile and convenient option for your skincare goals. These masks are the perfect skincare treat for a quick and easy at-home spa experience. These masks come in sheet form and are saturated with a variety of beneficial ingredients such as antioxidants, vitamins, and plant extracts. Sheet masks are ideal for all skin types and can help to brighten, hydrate, and firm the skin.

At Patchology, our sheet masks can help you with everything from soothing and protecting your skin barrier to delivering a hit of hydration where you need it most. Unlike other sheet masks that can take up to twenty minutes, our sheet masks are perfect for delivering targeted treatment directly to your skin, and can work in as little as five minutes! 

Whether your skin needs an extra boost of hydration or you want to give your complexion a pick-me-up, sheet masks can do the trick day or night.

Mud Masks

When you want to help your oily skin find balance again and unclog pores, a mud mask can be your best bet. According to Healthline, mud masks are great for removing impurities from your skin and unclogging pores. However, one drawback is that traditional mud masks can be messy and dry out your skin.

When you want to detox without the mess, the SmartMud® No Mess Mud Masque comes to the rescue. Mineral-rich volcanic ash combined with our innovative mask technology makes mud easy to apply and remove and gets the purifying properties of mud right where you want them and not where you don’t. These unique mud masks are especially great to incorporate into your skincare routine 7 days before a vacation or event to draw out impurities and to tighten pores.

Keep your hands and counters clean while clearing up your complexion! This type of face mask is best for normal, combination, and oily skin.

Clay Masks

Similar to mud masks, clay masks can help purify your skin. However, most experts agree that while mud is more healing, clay is a skin-drying agent and can irritate sensitive or dry skin. Like mud masks, clay masks are best for oily skin.

Sheet Masks vs Clay Masks

Let’s face it, clay masks can be messy. When you want to help treat acne without drying out your skin, a clear skin sheet mask can also do the trick in a fraction of the time (and no cleanup required!).

Impurities and inflammation disappear in only 10 minutes thanks to these soothing ingredients.

Charcoal Masks

Charcoal was all the rage a few years ago and you can still find many charcoal peel-off masks on the market today. The experts at Byrdie explain that charcoal has long been used in medicine to remove toxins in the body, and many people believed the same could apply to your skin.

Charcoal can remove excess oil from your skin and pulls impurities to the surface, which may cause breakouts the next day as your skin adjusts. These masks contain activated charcoal, which acts like a magnet to draw out impurities and pollutants from the skin. Charcoal masks are especially useful for people who live in cities or areas with high pollution levels.

You may not want to use a charcoal mask if you have a big event because it can irritate your skin. Like clay and mud masks, charcoal masks are best for oily skin and shouldn’t be used daily.

A Rosé Facial Sheet Mask is a great alternative packed with hyaluronic acid and more to help protect and hydrate your complexion!

Hydrogel Masks

For dry skin in need of a hydration boost, try a hydrogel mask. Patchology's gel technology delivers powerful hydrating ingredients directly to the skin. They’re perfect for dry skin in need of some hydration right in the morning or before your head to bed.

Check out some of our fave gel face masks:

• Our dreamy Night Hydrogel Face Mask is loaded with anti-aging retinol and peptides to smooth fine lines while you sleep.
• The Calming Hydrogel Face Mask with cannabis seed oil soothes and deeply moisturizes your skin.
• A Brightening Hydrogel Face Mask is the best way to start your day with a glowing complexion.

Cream Masks

Of course, we can’t forget to mention a classic cream mask. This includes the many DIY face mask recipes, like these on Self.com, you can whip up for all your specific skin needs. These masks can also deliver great targeted treatment and it can be fun concocting cream masks for an at-home spa night, but you may be missing out on specialized ingredients that can do wonders for your skin.

Sheet Masks vs Wash off Masks

Once again, sheet masks take the win in this face-off. Not only are they more convenient to use (and less messy), but they also ensure your skin soaks up all the goodness of the serum instead of rinsing it away. The longer your skin is in contact with the serum soaking in all the goodness the better your results. So washing the mask off application eliminates these benefits altogether.

Me-Moment with Face Masks

Incorporating face masks into your skincare routine can be a great way to pamper your skin and address specific skin concerns. By understanding the different types of face masks and their unique benefits, you can choose the one that best suits your needs and helps you achieve a healthy, glowing complexion.

Practicing self-care at home can be a relaxing and enjoyable way to unwind and reduce stress. No matter which facial mask is best for you, taking five or ten minutes to restore can be a great way to connect with yourself and your body, fostering a deeper sense of self-awareness and self-love.

Explore our skincare favorites at Patchology to find your new favorite mud, gel, or sheet mask!