A Field Guide to Face Masks: Clay, Sheet, Jelly & Peel-Off

"Face mask" covers a surprising amount of ground — a clay mask and a sheet mask are solving almost opposite problems. Here's how to tell them apart, and how to choose.

Clay and mud masks are absorbent by design. They draw out oil and impurities, which makes them best suited to congested or oilier skin, and best used sparingly — once or twice a week, rinsed off before they fully dry and tighten. Leaving clay on too long can pull moisture along with the oil, so a few minutes past "still damp" is usually enough.

Sheet masks work the opposite direction. Soaked in a serum-like essence, they sit on the skin and push hydration and active ingredients in, rather than pulling anything out. They're gentle enough for daily use and a good option before an event, when you want a visible plumping effect fast.

Jelly and gel masks sit between the two — cooling, hydrating, and typically formulated around a single hero ingredient like vitamin C or arbutin. They suit most skin types and layer well over a serum.

Peel-off masks are more about texture than hydration. As they dry, they lift away with the top layer of buildup, making them a satisfying once-a-week reset rather than a regular step.

A simple way to think about it: clay for congestion, sheet and jelly for hydration, peel-off for texture. Most routines benefit from having one of each on hand rather than relying on a single type every time. Our full face mask collection is organized so you can shop by what your skin needs that day, and our Mask Discovery Set is a low-commitment way to try a few types before settling on favorites.