The Secret to Glowy, Bright Skin is Right Here

Self Magazine

by Alexandra Samuel



Have you guys ever tried sheet masks? Originally orrowed from Korean culture, these babies are made of cotton (or a similar material) and cut to the shape of a face (roughly, at that), and are soaked in a TON of skin goodness. My editor, Rachel, sent me over a few that just hit the market and I'm so not surprised that they're seriously back en vogue.

Sure, they can be crazy expensive, but they're awesome enough to overcome the sometimes heart attack-inducing price tags. For one? You never have much to clean up, unlike all the other formulas which leave you with a peeling or goopy mess. They're also travel friendly, as they come in individual packets, so use one post-flight to brighten skin or merely refresh your face. And since they're packed with varying benefits, there's definitely a new formula (or an old classic) that's perfect for you. Check out my faves, then share yours!

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Garnier Skin Renew Dark Spot Treatment Mask: Designed to revitalize skin -- and erase any dark spots -- these are awesome for a first-timer, since they're so well-priced. Ingredients like vitamin C help brighten, smooth and hydrate your face. ($17 for 6)

Tatcha Luminous Deep Hydration Lifting Mask: Want crazy silky skin? This mask is your go-to. The unique coconut-derived formula was developed originally to speed healing for burn victims (Cool, right?) and forms an occlusive layer on the skin that enables deeper ingredient penetration. ($95 for 4)

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Jurlique Purely Age-Defying Firming Treatment Mask: Feelin' old? This mask is like the perfect fix for days when you're having a "Holy crap I'm almost [insert age here]" moment: It helps smooth fine lines and bigger wrinkles, hell skin turn over faster, firm up and brighten with ingredients like kudzu root extract, willow bark and vitamin C. ($62 for 5)

SK-II Facial Treatment Mask: OK, so while these are the most decadent of the bunch, they're also the original -- and one of SK-II's best-sellers. (Getting married? SK-II recommends using 'em for 90 days prior to your wedding.) This 100 percent cotton mask drenches the skin with vitamins, amino acids, minerals and organic acids. while immediately replenishes dehydrated skin, leaving it refreshed and cool. I've drank the Kool-Aid on this one, and I'm sold. ($125 for 9)

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