It might be tradition for Chinese restaurants to dish out fortune cookies with the bill, but in Montreal one establishment is offering sheet masks. A diner posted a snap on Reddit of the three Beaute Poon sheet masks that came with the bill at Chez Maxim Oriental and several other users confirmed that it is indeed a regular occurrence at the restaurant.
Ten years ago, these wet, cloth masks were hard-to-source, niche products that only skincare fiends knew about. Nowadays you’d be hard-pressed to find a woman who hasn’t tried at least one or two. In fact, these masks have played a huge role in spreading the word about Korean-inspired beauty, or K-beauty as it’s also known, which is now a $13 billion industry globally.
But what is it about sheet masks that have made them so popular? “Moving beyond basic hydrating benefits, sheet masks and patches are now designed for each part of the body and every member of the family, babies included, to target every possible need and to be used on the most specific occasions,” says Jane Jang, senior beauty analyst at Mintel. “Some interesting examples include masks inspired by oriental acupressure massage techniques and injection treatments at clinics, featuring micro-needles and pressure points, and sauna-effect masks that lock in moisture while trapping body heat.”
Admittedly, the dry texture of this mask isn’t for everyone and it is expensive, but if you’re looking for a product that will truly make a difference, this is worth every penny. The dry technology works with the help of friction when the active ingredients infused into the textile mask are pushed into skin. While there’s only a couple of brands using this technology at the moment, you can expect to see many more on the market by the end of the year.
Best sheet mask for radiance-boosting
Charlotte Tilbury Instant Magic Facial Dry Sheet Mask, £18
Another dry sheet mask, but this one is targeting radiance rather than anti-ageing, which is reflected in the price tag. It’s a foolproof way to achieve the dewy finish for which make-up artist Tilbury is renowned for and you see results in 15 minutes.
Best sheet mask for travelling
SK-II Facial Treatment Mask, £92 for 10
This was one of the first sheet masks available in the UK and it’s still one of the best. Cate Blanchett is rumoured to be a staunch fan. Take it on holiday with you to revive your skin post-flight or after the beach.
Best sheet mask for eye brightening
Elemis Pro-Collagen Hydra-Gel Eye Masks, £47.50 for 6
While not technically a sheet mask as such, these eye patches work in the same way. Whether you’re battling with dark circles, puffiness or fine lines, they will give your eyes an instant boost.
Best sheet mask for pore-refining
Starskin Silkmud Pink French Clay Sheet Mask, £8.50
If you hate the mess of a clay mask, this is the perfect solution. Simply peel off, layer onto your face and wait ten minutes. For the best results, wear in the shower when the steam has opened your pores.
[“source-telegraph.co.uk”]
