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You’ve probably heard a million times that wearing sunscreen is critical for your skin’s health—and ideally, you sport SPF on the daily, even when it’s not sunny out. (The sun can still damage your skin when it’s cloudy, FYI.)
Even if that’s not quite the case, with summer quickly approaching, we get that you might be thinking a whole lot more about sunscreen now than you did in the dead of winter. But how much do you actually know about what SPF is and how it works?
Understanding SPF will go a long way in using it properly to protect your skin from the sun’s damaging UV rays.

What does SPF actually mean?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and it’s a measure of how long a sunscreen will protect you from UVB rays, says Fayne Frey, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in West Nyack, New York. The number next to SPF (e.g. 15 or 30) tells you how much time it’d take for your skin to turn red while wearing SPF compared to how long it’d take your skin to turn red without wearing SPF.
For example, if it would take 20 minutes for your skin to burn without sunscreen, using an SPF 15 sunscreen would prevent burning for 15 times longer, which is about 5 hours, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation.
That doesn’t mean SPF 100 offers a ton more protection than SPF 15 or 30 though. The Skin Cancer Foundation also notes that SPF 15 blocks about 93 percent of UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks about 97 percent of UVB rays, and SPF 50 blocks about 98 percent of UVB rays.
And even if you’re using a high SPF, it’s not going to do much for you unless you remember to reapply it regularly. Keep reading to find expert tips on applying sunscreen efficiently.

Is SPF all you have to look for on a sunscreen label?

Nope. To shield your skin against both UVA and UVB rays, you have to look for the phrase “broad-spectrum” on sunscreen labels, says Tsippora Shainhouse, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles and clinical instructor at the University of Southern California.
The sun emits three types of rays: UVA, UVB, and UVC. “UVA rays have the longest wavelengths, UVB rays have shorter wavelengths, and UVC rays are even shorter,” says Frey. “UVC rays don’t reach Earth’s surface, so you don’t have to worry about them.”
Because of their longer wavelengths, UVA rays have the ability to penetrate deeper into your skin than UVB rays, and they are the ones that can contribute to the formation of wrinkles and hyperpigmentation that show up years later, says Frey. “UVA rays were never really thought to cause burns and cancer, but recently we’ve learned that that’s not the case,” says Frey. “Research shows that UVA rays do cause skin cancer.”
UVB rays, which damage the top layer of your skin, are responsible for sunburns as well as skin cancer. (An easy way to remember what’s what? Think A for accelerated aging and B for burns, says beauty industry chemist David Pollock.)
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In 2011, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) updated its guidelines for how sunscreens are sold in the U.S. Manufacturers now have to pass a specific test if they want to label a sunscreen broad-spectrum in an effort to ensure that what you buy will actually protect you from UVA and UVB rays.
Additionally, sunscreen labels can no longer say waterproof on them, says Shainhouse. “Instead, the label will read ‘water-resistant,’ which means that it will last up to 80 minutes in water or with profuse sweating,” says Shainhouse.
And, fun fact: Brands can no longer call their products sunblock, either. “There is no such word as sunblock anymore because you cannot completely block the UV rays with a topical cream,” says Shainhouse. Hence the term sunscreen.

What happens when you skip SPF?

We get it: Sometimes life happens, and you just don’t have the time to apply sunscreen. But if you’re thinking this is an unnecessary step in your daily skincare routine, you might want to change your tune.
Beyond shielding yourself from sunburns, broad-spectrum sunscreen helps protect you from premature aging caused by UVA rays. “Sunscreen should be applied on your face and hands every day,” says Frey. “You get more sun just going about your day—walking to your car and mailbox—than you do on those few days you spend on the beach. Sun damage accumulates.” Even sitting by a window or being stuck in traffic could leave you vulnerable. “UVA rays penetrate through glass,” says Frey, “so even when you’re driving, you get exposure.”
If you were to compare the face, hands, and neck of a middle-aged person to their butt, well, the commonly exposed areas would likely look a whole lot older if sun protection wasn’t a priority, says Frey. Sure, you don’t need to wear SPF under your clothes in January, but “it’s truly necessary for people to apply sunscreen [to exposed areas] every day of the year,” says Frey.
According to a 2014 study published in the journal Molecules, it’s possible that UV exposure in general accounts for as much as 80 percent of visible aging signs, like lines, dryness, and hyperpigmentation—and that this photoaging is associated with an increased risk for skin cancer.
Per the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. Basal and squamous cell carcinomas (the two most-diagnosed forms of skin cancer) are typically found on areas that are exposed to the sun, like your head, neck, and arms. Basal and squamous cell carcinoma are easily treatable if caught early, but melanoma, which is less common, is harder to treat because it grows and spreads quickly.
Research has found that using sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher curbs your risk of squamous cell carcinoma by 40 percent and your risk of melanoma by 50 percent, says Shainhouse.

What’s the best SPF formula?

SPF isn’t one size fits all, and now that you know why it’s crucial to apply SPF, it’s time to find the formula that best suits you.
There are actually two types of sunscreen: chemical and physical. Chemical ingredients like avobenzone absorb UV rays and keep them from penetrating your skin, says Frey. Physical (or mineral) sunscreen contains ingredients like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide that sit on top of your skin and deflect UV rays, says Shainhouse.
There are pros and cons to both, though. Chemical sunscreens typically have more cosmetically elegant formulas (meaning they don’t leave a white film and won’t mess with your makeup, says Frey). Shainhouse adds that chemical sunscreens are also more likely to have accurate SPF levels. Still, some ingredients in chemical sunscreens, like oxybenzone, can be highly irritating, especially if you’re prone to sensitivity, says Pollock.
Overall, Pollock prefers a physical sunscreen that’s formulated with a combo of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide for sun protection with the least amount of irritation.
Pollock notes that if you’re looking for a more natural, potentially safer SPF option, then you’re going to want to use a physical sunscreen. It may leave a white cast on your skin, says Frey, but with newer formulations, this is becoming less of a problem. It’s important to note that physical sunscreen rubs off more easily, so it may need to be reapplied more frequently, says Shainhouse.
Because of the possibility for irritation, physical sunscreen is also the best option for babies, says Frey. However, she points out that “baby sunscreen” is almost completely a marketing ploy. Almost all baby and kid sunscreens have physical formulas, and they often have the same exact formulas as other sunscreens, just with a different label on the front. The only thing that might be different about baby sunscreen is that it’d probably be fragrance-free, says Pollock, since fragrance is an irritant.
“At the end of the day, the FDA only looks at actives [in sunscreen],” says Pollock. “The government doesn’t care if it’s for a baby or a 90-year-old. They only care about whether it blocks the sun.”
Finally, keep the environment in mind. A 2008 study published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives found that chemical sunscreens can cause coral reef damage. The researchers found that at least 25 percent of sunscreen is washed off while swimming within 20 minutes. The National Park Service advises using physical sunscreen, since titanium dioxide and zinc oxide haven’t been found to damage reefs.

What’s the best form of sunscreen?

Once you choose between chemical and physical SPF, you then have to decide which form of sunscreen to wear. You have a lot of options, from lotions to sprays to sticks.
Lotions give you better control because you can see exactly how much you’re applying, says Pollock, while sprays are super convenient and a great pick for the laziest among us, he says. Personally, Pollock is a fan of stick sunscreen for the forehead and around the eyes. That’s because if you’re using a chemical SPF lotion on your face, and you sweat, it could run into your eyes and cause burning, whereas a stick won’t run.  
Experts say they’re all relatively effective—as long as you apply and reapply—so it’s more about personal preference.
The only caveat is when it comes to makeup with SPF. “It’s better than nothing, but the truth is most people don’t put makeup on thick enough,” says Frey. “It’s best to put sunscreen on first.”

What’s the best way to apply sunscreen?

“The most important thing isn’t what number you use, it’s how you use it,” says Frey. “Even if you use SPF 100, you’re not going to get the SPF 100 protection unless you do it correctly.”
Chemical SPF takes about 15 minutes to absorb, so you have to apply it before you go outside according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Experts recommend using at least one ounce (which is about the size of a shot glass) to cover exposed areas.
“One ounce is usually sufficient to cover exposed skin in an adult from head to toe,” says Shainhouse. “I usually recommend a nickel-sized dollop for face and ears or a quarter-sized if you’re including your entire neck—front, sides, and back.” This is all dependent on body size, says Frey—someone larger would need to apply more. (Commonly overlooked areas include the tops of the feet, scalp, ears, and around bathing suit edges, says Frey, so don’t forget about protecting those places, too!)
If you’re using an SPF lotion, gel, or oil, rub it in thoroughly for maximum benefits. If you’re using a  spray SPF sunscreen, you also have to rub that in, but you should apply a second layer to make sure you’re not missing any spots, says Shainhouse. “Spray sunscreens are only effective if applied properly, which means holding the bottle two to three inches from the skin and spraying a stream onto the skin,” she says. Just don’t spray SPF directly onto your face, since it can get into your lungs and irritate them, says Frey. If you are planning to use spray sunscreen on your face, spray it into your hands first and pat it onto your face.
As far as reapplication goes, experts recommend doing so approximately every two hours. “Because the UVA protection begins to break down after two hours, sunscreen should be reapplied every two to three hours if you are out in the sun,” says Shainhouse. “They should be reapplied more frequently if you sweat profusely or go swimming.”
There are other sun protection measures you should take besides applying sunscreen, the biggest being avoiding midday sun exposure, says Frey, since the sun is at its peak between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Other than that, throw on a hat to shield your scalp and sunglasses to protect your eyes. UPF clothing is an effective way to protect your skin, too. “Some of the fabrics are fantastic,” says Frey. When it comes to clothing in general, Frey says that darker tops are better because the sun can get through white t-shirts.

How do you pick the best SPF?

As with any other skincare product, keep your skin type and lifestyle in mind when choosing an SPF sunscreen.
SPF for acne-prone skin: Look for a non-comedogenic, oil-free formula, like Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen Lotion ($12), which is formulated with chemical SPF and won’t clog pores or cause breakouts.
SPF for oily skin: EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 ($33) is formulated with lactic acid, which unclogs pores and curbs shine, making it a perfect chemical SPF pick for oily skin.
SPF for dry skin: Hydrate dry skin with a moisturizer with SPF like Paula’s Choice Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer with SPF 50 ($33), which contains nourishing shea butter and has a chemical SPF formulation.
SPF for sensitive skin: Choose a physical sunscreen, like Avene Mineral Ultra-Light Hydrating Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+ ($28), which features the brand’s soothing spring water.
SPF with anti-aging benefits: Packed with antioxidants, Drunk Elephant Umbra Sheer Physical Daily Defense Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30 ($34) is a mineral SPF sunscreen that protects against free radical damage that can cause wrinkles.  
SPF for makeup prep: Avoid your foundation slicking by applying Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 40 ($32) before makeup. It has an oil-controlling formula that leaves skin with a velvety finish.
SPF for lips and ears: Reach for an easy-to-apply stick SPF sunscreen, like Bare Republic Mineral Sport Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 ($10), to cover these often-forgotten areas.
SPF for body: La Roche Posay Anthelios Face & Body Melt-In Sunscreen Milk SPF 60 ($36) is a classic for a reason. It has a non-greasy, oil-free formula that absorbs easily into skin without clogging pores.
SPF for beach trips: Spray your arms and legs with reef-safe All Good Sport Sunscreen Spray SPF 30 ($17), and relax while staring out into the ocean.
SPF for on-the-go touch-ups: When you’re in need of a quick SPF touch-up, that’s the time to reach for a powder sunscreen, like Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50 ($65), which provides mineral protection and won’t mess with makeup.
Regardless of which sunscreen you use, know that SPF has about a three-year shelf life, says Frey. That being said, because you should wear sunscreen on exposed areas every day, your bottle or tube of SPF shouldn’t come close to lasting for three years.

Unless you’re a complete beauty newb, chances are you’ve at least heard of the epicness that is the Korean skincare routine. In case you need a refresher, the typical Korean skincare routine consists of a whopping 10 steps, with each serving a unique purpose. While Korean skincare may seem daunting at first, once you find the best Korean skincare products for your skin type and concerns, you’ll get your own routine on lock.
Here, learn all about why you should commit to a Korean skincare routine and get product recs tailored to you, straight from top experts in the Korean skincare industry.

Beauty 101: What is a Korean skincare routine, and why is it so popular?

A typical Korean skincare routine includes everything from double cleansing to treating skin concerns with products like essences and ampoules to intensely moisturizing.
Korean skincare involves a lot of steps with a major focus on hydration, says Michelle Wong, PhD, who writes about the science behind beauty products on her website Lab Muffin.
Craig Kraffert, MD, board-certified dermatologist and president of Amarte, a skincare brand that launched in Korea in the ’90s, says the multistep Korean skincare routine was born out of an obsession with the Korean concept that skincare is a privileged activity of “indulgence, enjoyment, and self-respect.”
Alicia Yoon, founder of K-beauty brand Peach & Lily, says the overall goal of Korean skincare is to create a healthy glow, and the routine resonates with people because it’s a unique take on skincare. “There’s a little bit more of a long-term approach to achieving a healthy outcome for skin,” says Yoon. “It’s not about expecting overnight results from something like a very intensive peel.”
Korean skincare products also play a role in the popularity of the multistep routine. Kraffert, who founded Dermstore, has had the opportunity to try skincare products from all over the world and says that Korean skincare products have been more aesthetically pleasing and pleasant to use than ones made in America or Europe.
“The state-of-the-art Korean skincare technologies—and there are several—really do lead the world,” says Kraffert. “The Korean government has actively participated in nurturing the skincare product manufacturing industry through partnerships with academia to advance R&D [research and development] efforts.”
Besides their advanced formulas, the packaging of many Korean skincare products is totally adorable. Many of them come housed in the cutest containers, and that adds to the appeal, says Yoon.
The proliferation of Korean movies and music to the West in the last few years is also piquing people’s interest in Korean skincare, says Kraffert. “Starting in the second half of the ’90s, the Korean wave swept across Asia, and, more recently, is sweeping across both America and Europe,” he says. “This began with drama productions. Korean actresses and their legendary beauty are revered across Asia. The Korean penchant for excellence in plastic surgery is also well known.”
Couple that with the high-tech product formulations and a historical obsession with skincare, and it makes sense that Korean skincare has taken off around the globe.

East vs. West: What are the major differences between Western and Korean skincare routines?

“Western beauty routines usually contain [fewer] steps, harsher active ingredients, and less of a focus on moisturization,” says Wong. While the Western world is slowly becoming more and more influenced by Korean skincare routines, she says, we tend to combine steps with multi-use products, whereas a Korean skincare routine separates everything out.
“In a Korean skincare routine, you’ll have a lot more steps,” Wong explains. “For example, cleansing will involve two steps—this is known as double-cleansing—and there will be multiple steps that deliver active ingredients to your skin, like essences and serums.”
Wong adds that Asian skin is generally more prone to dehydration, which is why moisturization plays such a huge role. Asian skin is also more prone to hyperpigmentation, says Wong, so pigmentation-lightening ingredients like niacinamide and kojic acid—both rarely seen in American and European beauty products—are in a lot of Korean skincare products.
Sarah Chung, CEO of Landing International, an online marketplace that connects global brands and retailers, says that Korean skincare tends to be a lot stronger when it comes to the nutrient stage of the routine. While we sometimes include serums (or a similar product like an essence or ampoule) in our skincare routines here in the U.S., in Korea this is considered a vital step that would never be skipped, says Chung.
Korean skincare also places a big emphasis on preventive measures, says Yoon, which is different from in the U.S., where we tend to wait until our skin is damaged and then try to reverse it. That’s why you’ll always find sunscreen in a Korean skincare routine.

How to Put Together a Korean Skincare Routine

So now you know why Korean skincare is trending and what the benefits of a Korean skincare routine are, but what about actually following the 10-step process? We’re making it easy with our step-by-step guide.

Step 1: Use an oil cleanser.

Oil cleansers are great because they gently remove impurities (like dirt and makeup) from your skin without having to resort to tugging or pulling, says Yoon. She says people with any skin type—even oily skin—can use an oil cleanser.
Yoon’s favorite oil cleanser is Aromatica Natural Coconut Cleansing Oil ($45), which dissolves impurities without leaving any residue and can be used by all skin types. Chung is a fan of oil cleansers that come in a balm form, like SkinRx Lab MadeCera Cleansing Balm ($26), because they’re travel-friendly. “The solid format means you can put them in your bag and go anywhere,” she says.

Step 2: Cleanse again.

“In a way that is analogous to shampooing—wash, rinse, repeat—double cleansing of the skin can provide improved removal of oil, keratin, and assorted microscopic skin debris,” says Kraffert. He says that while you can double cleanse no matter your skin type, it might be more beneficial for those who are on the oilier side.
If you’re going to double cleanse, Kraffert suggests choosing a gentle yet deep-cleansing foam cleanser, like Amarte Daily Wonder Cleansing Foam ($40), for this step. It’s formulated with hyaluronic acid, which is one of the most hydrating ingredients out there. “High-quality facial cleansers typically do not lead to dry skin, even with double cleansing,” he says.
Yoon is a fan of Shangpree S-Energy Facial Mousse Cleanser ($35), particularly for sensitive skin. “It’s made by the best spa in Korea,” she says, referring to Seoul’s Shangpree Spa. “It’s a water-based cleanser that doesn’t have any sulfates. It’s really beautiful and doesn’t disrupt the skin at all.

Step 3: Exfoliate (once or twice a week).

You don’t have to exfoliate every day. Once or twice a week tops should do, says Yoon. Exfoliating rids the surface of your skin of dulling, pore-clogging impurities, but over-exfoliating could irritate your skin and lead to even more issues, she warns.
There are two types of exfoliators to choose from: physical ones (like scrubs and microfiber cloths), which manually buff off dead skin cells, and chemical ones (like glycolic and lactic acids), which loosen dead skin cells so they come off more easily, says Wong.
Chemical exfoliators can also be formulated with plant enzymes, such as pumpkin, pineapple, or papaya extracts, says Wong. Be The Skin Non-Stimulus Face Polisher ($29), which Yoon loves, relies on plant extracts for exfoliation and is suitable for all skin types. Kraffert recommends Amarte Daily ExfoliPowder ($37), which utilizes ultra-fine corn starch for very gentle manual exfoliation (it can even be swapped in for the second half of your daily double cleanse, he says).
Chung cites Wish Formula C200 Bubble Peeling Pad for Face ($26) as an innovative chemical exfoliant. It comes with a pad that you soak in an exfoliating serum—which contains AHAs, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid—and wipe over your face.

Step 4: Tone.

“Korean toners are very hydrating,” says Yoon. “They’re not astringent.” They’re awesome at balancing your skin’s pH and kickstarting the hydration portion of your routine, she says.

As for when to apply it, Yoon says, “You don’t want your skin to be totally dry when you apply toner. You should apply it within five seconds of washing your face.”

Yoon recommends Be the Skin, a beauty line that offers toners for all different skin types, like the Botanical Pore Toner ($25) for oily and acne-prone skin, Purifying White Waterful Toner ($29) for dull skin, Botanical Nutrition Power Toner ($29) for dry skin, and Botanical Nutrition Toner ($29) for normal skin.

Landing International’s best-known brand in the U.S. is COSRX, and they also offer a variety of toners for different concerns, says Chung. One of the newest and most popular toners from the brand is the Poreless Power Liquid ($22), which cleans and tightens pores without stripping skin. She also likes the COSRX One Step Original Clear Pads ($20), pre-soaked toning pads that fight acne without drying out skin.

Step 5: Apply essence.

Essences are likely the products you’re most unfamiliar with in the Korean skincare routine. They were developed in Korea, and while they’re similar in appearance and texture to toners, they don’t serve the same purpose. Essences are meant to be hydrating, not cleansing, says Yoon.

Wong says that they often contain ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, while Kraffert compares essences to serums and says they may even be preferred over serums if you have dry skin.

Yoon recommends Eco Your Skin’s essences for their unique formula that can be layered on. “You can apply one layer or 20 layers, and your skin keeps drinking it up,” she says. The brand offers a Moisturizing Layering Essence, Lifting Layering Essence, Soothing Layering Essence, Spot Care Layering Essence, Oily Layering Essence, and Anti-Wrinkle Layering Essence (all $25).

Step 6: Layer on a serum or ampoule.

“In Korean skincare, serums usually target wrinkles, dullness, and pigmentation,” says Wong.

Yoon says you can use a serum (a lightweight, watery skincare product that penetrates deeply into your skin to deliver nutrients) or an ampoule (a souped-up version of a serum with a slightly more potent formula).

Yoon loves Shangpree S-energy Long Lasting Concentrated Serum ($120). “It’s good for all skin types,” she says. “It’s a lightweight clear gel that absorbs into skin and is proven to help with fine lines and wrinkles.”

Kraffert says the Amarte Aqua Veil Pure Hydration Serum ($57) has a water-rich formula that provides tons of hydration so that skin can withstand harsh environments. Chung says Skin&Lab Red Serum ($35) helps improve the texture of skin and is very high in antioxidants. “Anyone I recommend that to falls in love with it,” she says.

If you want to try an ampoule, Wish Formula offers a few, says Chung. The I’m Pro Ampoule Pad – C ($32) nourishes skin with plant extracts, while the I’m Pro Ampoule Pad – M brightens dull skin with vitamin C ($32).

Step 7: Pop on a sheet mask (a few times a week).

Like essences and ampoules, sheet masks are quintessential parts of a Korean skincare routine. These fabric face masks are soaked in concentrated serums and are generally used two or three times a week.
“Sheet masks hydrate your skin and can help the underlying products sink into the skin,” says Wong. Don’t wash your face after using a sheet mask, Chung notes. Since sheet masks are packed with serum, pat the serum into your skin after taking the mask off.
Yoon says Peach & Lily sheet masks are formulated without alcohol, fragrances, or harsh ingredients, all of which could irritate skin. “They’re filled with lots of skin-enhancing ingredients and are gentle enough to use even daily,” she says. The Good Skin Day Drench + Nourish Sheet Mask hydrates and brightens, the Chubby Cheeks Lift + Plump Sheet Mask perks up sagging skin, and the Reset Button Soothe + Restore Sheet Mask calms irritated skin (all $6).

Step 8: Dab on an eye cream.

The delicate skin around your eyes deserves attention, too! “It’s super important to keep the skin around your eyes moisturized,” says Kraffert. Because it’s so fragile, this skin is prone to dryness and showing signs of aging like dark circles and crow’s feet. Kraffert recommends using eye cream twice daily and patting it into your skin with gentle pressure.
For fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, Kraffert says the gold star ingredient is retinol, which you can find in Amarte Eyeconic Eye Cream ($80). “Retinol is one of the most effective cosmetic anti-aging ingredients and is proven, via rigorous studies, to improve conditions associated with chronological aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines,” he says.
Yoon likes Eco Your Skin Volufiline15 Eye Essence ($70). “It sinks really deep into skin,” she says. “It’s formulated with peptides and niacinamide and is firming and brightening. It fills in fine lines for flawless and creaseless makeup application.”

Step 9: Moisturize.

The ultimate goal of Korean skincare is a glowing complexion, which means moisturizer is a non-negotiable morning and night. For oily skin, choose an oil-free formula for daytime, and for dry skin, choose something heavier (moisturizers in jars are often richer), says Wong. Avoid heavy fragrances if you have sensitive skin.
Yoon says the Peach & Lily Peach Slices Aqua Glow ($12) combines serum and moisturizer and works on all skin types to brighten and hydrate. “You can use one layer for oily skin or five layers for dry skin,” she says. “It doesn’t pill, it’s non-comedogenic, and it primes your face for makeup.” Chung likes Skin & Lab Red Cream ($35), which has an antioxidant-packed gel–cream formula to soften lines and plump up skin.
“Sleeping masks or sleeping packs are a Korean product that I’ve found really useful for preventing dehydration, especially in dry winter weather,” says Wong. “You layer them over the rest of your skincare routine to help seal in moisture.” Try Laneige Water Sleeping Mask ($25), which has a gel formula that hydrates while you sleep.

Step 10: Protect your skin from the sun (in the morning).

“Sunscreen still remains the most important weapon in preventing premature skin aging and skin cancer, especially because these problems occur in frequently exposed areas including the face, neck, upper chest, arms, and hands,” says Kraffert.
Pick one that’s broad-spectrum (that means it protects against UVA and UVB rays) and SPF 30 or higher, says Kraffert. “Apply SPF over your moisturizer and under your makeup,” he says. He recommends Amarte Ultra Veil Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50 ($56), which is broad-spectrum and water resistant, contains brightening antioxidants, and has a semi-matte finish that won’t leave a greasy or chalky residue.
The bottom line: Sure, following a Korean skincare routine might take you a few extra minutes, but you’ll get the hang of it after some practice, we promise! Plus, when you see that radiant glow shining back at you from the mirror, we have a feeling you’ll think the added time has been worth it.

Sheet masks are starting to dominate the skin care market, and that’s a good thing. We could all use a little rejuvenation in our lives, right? Sheet masks—Korean sheet masks in particular—have taken Western markets by storm in recent years; according to one estimate, in 2015, the global sheet mask market was valued at $160 million; by the end of 2024, it’s expected to reach $336 million.
While we’re psyched to see this Korean beauty secret take hold in the States, we’ve seen conflicting tips for using sheet masks. Do you leave them on for hours at a time? Does brand really matter? Could we get the same moisturizing effect by simply covering our faces with lotion and standing under a waterfall?
We had a lot of questions, so we reached out to the experts. Whether you’re looking into sheet masks for the first time, or you’re a well-moisturized veteran of the sheet mask game, here’s what you need to know.

What is the difference between a sheet mask and a regular mask?

If you’ve used cream or clay facial masks, you might wonder what makes Korean sheet masks so remarkable.

“Sheet masks are face-shaped sheet fabrics soaked in serums or essences that have many benefits to the skin,” says Yves Saint Laurent Beauté ambassador Elisa Lee (@sokobeauty on Instagram). “Depending on the active ingredient, it can help with sebum production and refining the skin texture.”
“The sheet can be made of a variety of materials [such as] paper, fiber, or gel. They’re usually packed individually, so you can only use them once,” Lee explains. “They’re very different from regular wash-off clay or cream masks. With sheet masks, you are hydrating your skin by locking the moisture in during the 10 to 20 minutes when you have the mask on. You often don’t need to wash off after applying a sheet mask, while you normally would with a regular mask.”

Basically, Korean sheet masks are designed to hydrate your skin, while wash-off facial masks are intended to provide a cleansing effect.
“Sheet masks and regular masks do, in fact, complement each other,” says Ryan Sim, better known as Singapore-based beauty blogger Ryanraroar. “There is a reason why you can only experience a truly deep cleansing effect from a clay mask that comes in a jar. On days when you want an exfoliative deep cleanse, pick a clay, mud, or charcoal mask over a sheet mask. A sheet mask would not be able to offer that kind of deep cleansing effect.”

Lee agrees with that assessment.
“If you would like to exfoliate dead skin cells, remove white or blackheads, and deeply cleanse the skin, then I would recommend to go for a clay or mud mask,” she says. “Sheet masks mainly focus on hydration and nourishment. Depending on the active ingredient, [a sheet mask] can remove excess sebum as well, but it won’t deeply cleanse the skin.”

What’s in a sheet mask, exactly? What ingredients should I avoid?

There’s no standard ingredient list for sheet masks, so consumers have to do a bit of homework. Read the ingredient lists of any two, and you’ll probably find quite a few differences. Sheet mask benefits are largely driven by their active humectants (a substance that keeps skin moist), which vary among products.
“I love sheet masks with hyaluronic acid to moisturize the skin,” Lee says. “I also like niacinamide to brighten the skin. I usually [avoid] arbutin, which is a whitening ingredient, because I personally don’t prefer it. I also avoid alcohol, which may dry out the skin. If one of the two ingredients are listed in the first row of the ingredient list, I stay away from it.”
“I personally don’t like heavily scented sheet masks,” she adds. “I’ve got a sensitive nose, so I stay away from those.”
“With almost any sheet masks, when you look at the ingredients, the top three are usually water and humectants,” says Jude Chao, director of marketing at Beautytap and blogger at Fifty Shades of Snail. “That makes up the vast majority of the volume of the product. When people go looking for sheet masks, usually I just tell them to look at the ingredients.”

“Make sure that it doesn’t have anything that you’re sensitive to,” Chao suggests. “Find things enjoyable to you so that you’ll like using it and you’ll get into the habit of using it. Barring any real sensitivities or allergies, I personally think people can just use what they want to use.”

“There are some ingredients that work exceptionally well for you personally, but not as well for others,” Sim says. “Personally, I adore ingredients like vitamin C, centella asiatica, madecassoside, arbutin, and niacinamide. As for what ingredients to stay away from, I would advise people to read up about [individual ingredients] online to form their opinions, but one ingredient, in particular, is methylisothiazolinone (MIT).”

Widely used in cosmetics, methylisothiazolinone is a preservative and a potential allergen. According to the Environmental Working Group’s cosmetics database, some studies indicate that the substance could be neurotoxic, and the European Union has banned the use of methylisothiazolinone in leave-on cosmetics.

How often should you use sheet masks?

Well-hydrated skin is certainly a good thing, but we did wonder whether or not overuse could cause issues. According to our experts, you can use sheet masks as often as you’d like, provided that you’re not experiencing any negative reactions.

“You can sheet mask every single day,” says Lee, “but if you don’t have the time for it—which I can imagine—I recommend using them two or three times per week to keep your skin moisturized.”
Sim also recommends starting with two to three sheet masks per week.
“We’ve all heard the saying, ‘Everyone’s skin is different,’ and that’s true,” he says. “We all have varying skin types and skin needs, therefore, we should all listen to our skin and address it accordingly. …[Frequency] greatly depends on how the skin feels. There are some people, myself included, who do a sheet mask daily without an issue. I’d like to think that there is no hard-and-fast rule here. Ultimately, you just have to be aware of your skin type/condition and be selective about what you put on your skin.”
If you feel like you aren’t getting results from your current sheet mask regimen, and you haven’t noticed any tender or irritated skin, feel free to increase the frequency of your sessions.
“The basic function of the sheet mask is to hydrate,” says Chao. “It’s not a treatment product, so it really depends on how much you like using them. I think that well-hydrated skin tends to be more resilient in general. It tends to heal faster, and that’s something that sheet masks help a lot with. You won’t get those kinds of effects from any other type of product.”
“So it’s all personal taste,” Chao continues, “but I definitely find my skin looks its best when I’m using them almost every day.”

What should I know about sheet masks if I have sensitive skin?

“I think for some people, ingredients like alcohol or fragrance may be problematic,” Chao says. “That’s especially because of the function of the sheet mask. It’s this cylindrical sheet that holds the product on your face, keeping it moist for quite a long time. [Sheet masks] use a bunch of penetration enhancers to help more of the volume of product get into your skin. Ingredients like alcohol and fragrance that may not pose as much of a problem in regular-use skincare may be more irritating for some people when their skin is exposed to them for such a long period of time.”

With that said, Chao says that fragrance and alcohol aren’t absolute no-nos.
“I’ve used masks that have them and don’t personally have problems,” she says. “I think you kind of play it by ear. Some masks, you open them up and they just smell like alcohol, or they just smell strongly fragrant. I won’t try those, but a little bit here and there won’t be an issue for most normal skin.”

If your skin is especially sensitive, you’ve still got options, but you’ll have to do more research before making a purchase.
“For dry or dehydrated skin, you can look for sheet masks with one of these main ingredients: hyaluronic acid, manuka honey, aloe vera, or snail [secretion],” Lee says. “Some Korean brands also have cream sheet masks, and those are perfect for dehydrated or dry skin.”
“For acne-prone or sensitive skin, you can look for centella asiatica, tea tree, snail, salicylic acid, or propolis, and for oily skin you can look for charcoal or green tea,” she suggests.

Where do sheet masks fit into a balanced skincare regimen?

“On nights when I use a cotton-type sheet mask, I would use it right after my toner step,” says Sim. “However, if it is a hydrogel-type mask, I would first tone my skin and follow up with a serum/ampoule—usually a simple hydrating one with hyaluronic acid—before applying the mask. This is such a great trick to double-up the moisture and increase the overall masking experience.”
“You can use it after your serum and before your moisturizer,” Lee notes,  “so the order can be toner, essence, serum, sheet mask, then moisturizer.”
We asked our experts for other general tips for using sheet masks properly.
“You should always, always apply a mask over cleansed and toned skin,” Sim suggests. “The active ingredients will better penetrate the skin when your skin is moist.”
If you’re still not seeing results, consider extending the length of your sheet mask sessions.
“I would say to leave the sheet mask in place for a minimum of 20 minutes,” Chao says. “I personally like leaving them on even longer, so for around 30 to 45 minutes. When I take the mask off, I feel that more of the product absorbed … If you take it off too soon, your face is still really wet, and I always feel like I’ve not absorbed as much product as I can.”

Still, don’t overdo it.
“Avoid leaving the mask on to the point of total dryness,” Sim says.

What specific sheet masks do these beauty experts recommend?

“I normally use sheet masks from South Korea,” Lee says. “I love the ones from the following brands: Troiareuke, A. by BOM, POLATAM, CREMORLAB, MILU, and Common Labs.”
As for Chao, she says, “I really like a lot of Taiwanese brands, actually. There’s My Beauty Diary, Dr. Morita, and also great Korean brands like Papa Recipe.”
“I absolutely love masking and [am] always up to trying out and discovering new ones,” Sim says. “At the moment, some of the ones I have used and liked are Naruko Tea Tree Shine Control & Blemish Clear Mask, Dr Jart+ Dermask Micro Jet Clearing Solution for when I am dealing with pimples, Neogence N3 Arbutin Brightening Mask for brightening, Neogence N3 Ceramide Moisturizing Mask for hydration, The Face Shop Real Nature Mung Bean Mask for soothing, and The Face Shop MASK.LAB Chitosan Face Mask for skin renewal.”
Brand preferences aside, our experts agreed that a sheet mask’s price tag can’t tell you everything.
“It all depends on the brand and what ingredients they use,” Lee notes. “If you purchase a sheet mask of a high-end brand, it doesn’t mean that it will be better than the mid-level ones. The mid-level brands can create amazing sheet masks as well. “
“You may see brands overcharging because they want to profit from the sales, but there are some genuine cases whereby brands actually use new technologies or premium ingredients in their products to warrant a slightly higher than normal price point,” Sim says. “If the science and lab data matches the marketing claims put out by the brand, then I would say go for it!”

How can I use sheet masks in an eco-friendly way?

Let’s address the big, green elephant in the room: Sheet masks are wasteful. That’s true of just about any disposable single-use product—but if you’re careful, you can reduce your footprint.

“The materials used in most mask pouches are not recyclable, so that is an issue,” Sim says. “However, most of the sheet masks themselves are made of biodegradable material (e.g. cotton, pulp fibers), so we can compost those. An eco-friendly option would be to purchase those economical mask packs that come in a pack of 30 sheets.”

“Examples of [those] mask packs include LuLuLun Face Mask, which has 32 sheets in one pack, Saborino Morning Face Mask, which [also] has 32 sheets in one pack, Quality 1st All in One Sheet Mask, which has 50 sheets in one pack, A’PIEU Hyaluthione Soonsoo Daily Sheet Mask, which has 33 sheets in one pack, and MISSHA Pong Dang Water Daily Sheet Mask, which has 30 sheets in one pack.”
“There are certain brands that make a point of being more eco-friendly,” Chao says. “You can look to each brand’s individual policies to find out whether their packaging is recyclable.”