As the brisk winter air settles in, our skin's need for hydration becomes more important than ever. Among all the various skincare options, hydrating sheet masks emerge as cult faves, offering some major moisture in the parched winter months. These masks, soaked in nourishing essences and designed to cocoon the face, have become a remedy for combating seasonal dryness. And for good reason!
The best face masks for winter feature a mix of science-backed formulations and natural ingredients, catering to diverse skin types and concerns. They are crafted with potent humectants like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe vera, which work together to draw moisture into the skin, locking it in for lasting hydration. Additionally, these masks often contain vitamins, antioxidants, and plant extracts, providing a surge of nutrients vital for maintaining a healthy skin barrier.
Read on for a look at our favorite hydrating face masks that target dehydrated skin in the cold weather. Brr!
When we’re suffering from irritated skin thanks to the dry, cold wind, these cooling sheet masks come in clutch. IPSY members agree they’re especially great for that moment of self-care. “These were so hydrating and very nice for a spa night at home,” says one fan. Another puts hers in the fridge to up the cool factor. Genius.
Unfortunately, a lot of sheet masks end up in a landfill when you’re done with them. That’s why we’re big fans of biodegradable versions made from more eco-friendly materials. Now, just because it’s good for the planet, doesn’t mean it doesn’t also seriously work well at hydrating dry skin. We love how saturated these are with serum, so much so that we can pat the extra into our skin before heading to bed. IPSY members love that, too. “This sheet mask is super moist, it does the job! I wake up the next day with really amazing skin,” she says.
These sheet masks are full of nourishing vitamins and minerals and skin-protecting antioxidants (it’s that marine complex!) plus plumping collagen and hyaluronic acid. We can’t get enough of the way the formula leaves our skin hydrated and bouncy. IPSY members use them all year round, even in the summer when the sun causes irritated skin. “Perfect to hydrate the skin after sitting in the sun,” she says.
Not only do these spa-like gel masks deliver moisture where you need it, the formula helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, dullness, and uneven skin tone. It’s like a spa day right at home! IPSY members swear by these hydrating face masks even for sensitive skin. “It left my skin smooth and hydrated, looking more vibrant,” says one fan. “I love the gel consistency, it really hydrates and refreshes,” says another.
When our skin is dry and dull, it’s usually suffering from some other skin concerns, too. That’s where this mask duo comes in. One hydrates and calms dry skin while one is a more brightening and nourishing formula. It’s the best of both worlds. “I enjoyed using these masks. My skin felt better after each one. My skin is very dry and these definitely helped,” said one IPSY member.
We love that these vitamin C-infused hydrating and brightening masks are free from potentially harmful and irritating ingredients, making them especially great for sensitive skin. There aren’t any parabens or sulfates, and there are hyaluronic acid and fruit extracts that help boost your skin’s moisture levels, plus grapefruit and orange extracts that hydrate and brighten. We love giving them as gifts for friends with all skin types. IPSY members love them, too. “These sheet masks were so easy to use. My skin felt amazing, plus the essence was gentle and relaxing on my skin,” said one fan.
When we splurge on a peel or just a particularly intense facial, we reach for these calming sheet masks full of strengthening kombucha, anti-aging peptides, a blend of hydrating ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and shea butter. They were created out of one of Korea’s top Eastern medicine clinics and are free from artificial fragrance and colors. They just feel like they’re good for your skin, and IPSY members can’t say enough about them. “These masks were really nice. Not only was the packaging great but my skin loved these masks SO much!” said one fan.
Sometimes we like to lay in bed and relax while wearing our face masks, and other times we want to pop one on and watch a movie, clean our room, hey, maybe even vacuum. These moisturizing masks not only leave our skin feeling hydrated and nourished, but they also stay on really well, hugging the curves of our face without sagging off. IPSY members are just as obsessed as we are, though maybe for more skin-focused reasons. “Some of the best sheet masks I've used. Your skin feels noticeably different after use,” said one fan.
It can be a little scary using a hydrating face mask when we’re having a breakout. We don’t want our combination skin to feel too oily. Luckily, these are infused with antioxidant-rich ingredients (including a ferment filtrate trio that helps in cell renewal, skin-fortifying ceramides, and brightening niacinamide) to help nourish and protect skin all without clogging our pores. “They leave your face feeling very refreshed and clean,” agreed one IPSY member.
Every time we use this mask set, we smile at the bear and raccoon on the front. Who says skincare can’t be fun? They aren’t just cute, though. They symbolize which mask we’re going to grab first: The Aqua Moisture Raccoon Mask made with sunflower seed oil or The Sweet Honey Bear Mask with honey and propolis extract to refresh and soften skin. IPSY members agree that you can’t go wrong with either. “These were amazing!! I tried the sweet honey one first and it smelled absolutely delicious, left my face super hydrated and silky smooth. The raccoon one I tried and my face was a bit drier than usual so I was shocked at how much hydration it added back to my face. The holes were a perfect size (because yes, that's a factor for a good sheet mask lol),” they said.
With ingredients like coconut, rose water, black bean, peach, and lime, these all-natural vegan masks smell good enough to eat. Luckily, they majorly hydrate skin, too. “I just used the hydrating one last night and my skin is glowing,” said one IPSY member. We couldn’t agree more.
Our under-eye area is delicate and sensitive, so it takes a special facial mask to be in our skincare routine. This one checks all the boxes. They have gentle and hydrating active ingredients including vitamin-C rich watermelon extract and aloe vera. IPSY members agree with us. “These left my under eyes feeling rejuvenated,” they said. Our skin looks glowy and glass-like overnight.
Want to try the latest in skincare? Get in on all the IPSY fun! Take our Beauty Quiz now to get started with your own IPSY beauty subscription. Already an IPSY member? Refer your friends to earn points, which you can use toward products. Either way, don’t forget to check us out on Instagram and TikTok @IPSY.
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