16 Best Korean Face Masks for That Glass-Skin Glow


Including TikTok’s favorite overnight sheet mask.
best korean face masks
Courtesy of brands; Glamour composite by Paula Balondo

If you’re dedicated to discovering the best Korean face masks for a glass-skin glow, there’s no better place to conduct your research than where it all started. That’s why I spent more than three months in Seoul last year snooping around Korean skin care labs and investigating the shelves of Olive Young, South Korea’s most popular beauty retailer. I’ve been using K-beauty products for years and was an enthusiastic early adopter of pimple patches and snail mucin, but there’s always something new to discover.

The K-beauty market is intensely competitive, which means there are now thousands of Korean brands to sort through. But with some help from dermatologists and trusted industry experts (including veteran brand founders and product developers), I found a handful of face masks on Amazon and other K-beauty retailers that were so good, I bought a second suitcase to haul them all home. Take the best overall K-beauty mask, the Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask, which is expert-approved and gives your skin the ultimate glow. So whether you’re looking for a tingly pore treatment, an overnight sheet mask, or something for acne-prone skin, these are the options that stand apart from the rest.

The best Korean face masks, at a glance

Best Overall
Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask
Jump to review
Best for Acne-Prone Skin
Mediheal TeaTree Essential Mask
Jump to review
Best for Sensitive Skin
Abib Collagen Gel Mask in Jericho Rose Jelly
Jump to review
Best for Glass Skin
Peach & Lily Ginseng Collagen Mask
Jump to review
Best for Mature Skin
Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Creamy Mask
Jump to review

How we tested the best Korean face masks

As a beauty editor who’s covered K-beauty since 2016, I’ve tested hundreds of the most popular launches, including snail mucin creams, cushion foundations, and face masks like the ones you’ll find on this list.

I spent three months in Seoul last year researching the latest emerging trends in Korean mask technology by talking to brand founders, dermatologists, and cosmetic chemists. Korean face masks in particular take your skin care to a whole other level. Experts agree that they’re packed with benefits. “These at-home treatments can do everything from providing a boost of hydration to improving acne-prone, inflamed, dull, or photoaged skin,” says Y. Claire Chang, MD, board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm in New York City. While they may not deliver the results of a dermatologist’s visit, they’re meant to deliver more results than your daily skin care routine.

When reviewing each face mask, I make note of its ingredients list to determine which skin types it’s best for, whether it’s fragrance free, and what its key benefitsare. I also consulted with K-beauty experts and dermatologists specializing in Korean skin care to curate each list and help Glamour readers make the most informed decision.


Best Overall: Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask

  • Courtesy of brand
  • Original photo from Sarah Y. Wu testing Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask

Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask

Original video from Sarah Y. Wu testing Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask

What it’s for: Dry skin; dullness

Fast facts: Calming sheet mask; instantly soothes and reduces inflammation; recommended for acne-prone skin

Mediheal’s toner pads are all the rage in South Korea; just walk into any Olive Young (South Korea’s most popular beauty retailer) and you’ll see them flying off shelves. Turns out the Mediheal Tea Tree Essential Mask is just as effective. Dr. Chang highly recommends this K-beauty sheet mask if you want to make blemishes go away faster. “It’s formulated with hydrating factors and tea tree oil to reduce inflammation in the skin,” she says. Tea tree oil is a common acne fighter because of its “known antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that may help prevent and improve acne,” says Dr. Chang, who personally uses the mask when she’s breaking out. “It feels cool on the skin and helps soothe, especially when I have active breakouts,” she says. “It doesn’t clog pores, and you can use your normal acne medications afterward.”

What our testers say:

Glamour commerce writer Alanna Martine Kilkeary loves this cooling mask after a long day at the office. “It has a near instant refreshing effect that calms skin and makes my complexion feel rejuvenated and fresh, great after a long day at work wearing makeup,” she says. “I also noticed that it did a great job of calming some redness on my chin where I’ve been struggling with a bit of cystic acne—the area looked a lot more even-toned and less inflamed after application.”

Best Korean Face Mask for Sensitive Skin: Abib Collagen Gel Mask in Jericho Rose Jelly

  • Courtesy of brand
  • Original photo from Sarah Y. Wu testing Abib Collagen Gel Mask Jericho Rose Jelly

Abib Collagen Gel Mask in Jericho Rose Jelly

Original video from Sarah Y. Wu testing Abib Collagen Gel Mask in Jericho Rose Jelly

What it’s for: Sensitive skin

Fast facts: Cooling gel mask; gentle enough for sensitive skin

Apply this double-sided soothing mask with the honeycomb pattern touching your skin for the most comfortable nonslip fit. It’s fragrance-free and packed with calming ingredients, gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin types. “I’d recommend this mask for anyone who has redness, flushing, or sensitivity,” says Dr. Hwang. “It’s excellent for post-travel, post-sun, or irritated skin days.” Hydrogel masks like this one are particularly good for an instant soothing effect, since the material feels refreshing. “The gel matrix provides instant cooling, and the combination of Centella asiatica, panthenol, and hydrating botanicals delivers a strong calming effect, especially after heat-based treatments or sun exposure,” he says.

What our testers say:

“This mask feels like an ice bath without having to stick your face in a freezing bowl of water,” says Wu. “When my skin is overheated after the gym or just irritated from winter weather, I apply one of these for 10 to 15 minutes and let the soothing essence go to work. It not only leaves my skin much less stressed, but also leaves a plump, dewy finish.”

Best Korean Face Mask for Glass Skin: Peach & Lily Ginseng Collagen Mask

  • Courtesy of brand
  • Original photo from Audrey Noble testing Peach & Lily Ginseng Collagen Mask

Peach & Lily Ginseng Collagen Mask

Original video from Audrey Noble testing Peach & Lily Ginseng Collagen Mask

What it’s for: Dull complexion; uneven texture; dry skin

Fast facts: Hydrates; plumps skin; brightens; smooths out uneven texture

Turn to this when your skin needs some major TLC or for when you want to get your glass-skin game on. It’s made with niacinamide and a vegan collagen complex to give that super-dewy, radiant glow while also having ginseng, peptides, and cica to smooth any uneven texture and keep skin hydrated.

What our testers say:

“I trust Peach & Lily with my glass-skin goals, and this mask did not disappoint,” says Glamour contributor Audrey Noble. “You can wear it for 30 minutes or up to 3 hours (I may or may not go all in during a binge of Love Island Games) until the mask turns clear, and the end result is really great.”

Best Korean Face Mask for Mature Skin: Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Creamy Mask

  • Courtesy of brand
  • Original photo from Sarah Y. Wu testing Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Creamy Mask

Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Creamy Mask

Original video from Sarah Y. Wu testing Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Creamy Mask

What it’s for: Antiaging concerns; dullness; dryness

Fast facts: Dermatologist favorite for supporting skin between treatments; visible smoothing and plumping effect; recommended for dry, dull, or mature skin; not recommended for oily or acne-prone skin

This Korean sheet mask feels like a vacation to Sulwhasoo’s flagship spa in Seoul. Coated in the brand’s signature ginseng-derived ingredients, this powerful treatment is our top recommendation for mature skin. “This mask offers more than superficial hydration—its ginseng-based formulation exhibits antioxidative effects, which help with photoaging management,” says Dr. Hwang. He highlights the inclusion of panax ginseng root extract, which “improves microcirculation, supporting long-term collagen remodeling.” The mask also contains firming ginseng peptides, as well as moisturizing shea butter and squalane. According to Dr. Hwang, the former “delivers moisture for depleted skin” while the latter “mimics the skin’s natural sebum to restore suppleness without clogging pores.” While he recommends it for “aged, dry, or menopausal skin,” he says it’s not the best fit for oily or acne-prone skin. “For those with atrophic wrinkles or thin skin, it serves as an effective support treatment in between in-clinic procedures,” he says.

What our testers say:

Wu swears by this 15-minute mask for event prep. “Each foil-backed piece is coated with just the right amount of creamy serum,” she says. “Compared with face masks that drip essence when you open them, these have a totally different feel. But don’t worry: You’re definitely getting visible results. No matter how tired my skin looks, a single treatment leaves my complexion naturally radiant, plumped, and healthy-looking.”

Best Korean Face Mask for Dry Skin: Dr. Althea Aqua Blue Hydration Mask

Dr. Althea Aqua Blue Hydration Mask
Courtesy of brand

Dr. Althea Aqua Blue Hydration Mask

Original video by Jenifer Calle testing Dr. Althea Aqua Blue Hydration Mask

What it’s for: Dry, dull skin

Fast facts: Super hydrating; soothing; reduces puffiness; evens out uneven texture

Dr. Kim praises this mask for its hydration. It contains jojoba oil for nourishment and Bambusa vulgaris water that boasts 24-hour hydration that leaves you with dewy, glass-like skin. Other helpful ingredients include azulene extract, which soothes any irritation, and blue-agave water to improve skin’s elasticity and even out any uneven texture. All you need to do is leave the sheet mask on for 10 to 15 minutes and then pat any excess product onto the skin, and you’ll be met with a soft, hydrated, glowing complexion.

What our testers say:

“The sheet mask is a little slippery to take out of the package at first, but once its on your face, it stays put. I tend to wake up with dry skin in the morning because of the AC in my room, so this helps gently hydrate and wake up my dull skin. I felt refreshed after taking it off and rubbed in the remaining dewy essence for a glowy base,” says Glamour senior commerce editor Jenifer Calle.

Best Korean Collagen Face Mask: Sungboon Editor Deep Collagen Power Boosting Mask

Sungboon Editor Deep Collagen Power Boosting Mask
Courtesy of brand

Sungboon Editor Deep Collagen Power Boosting Mask

Original video from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Sungboon Editor Deep Collagen Power Boosting Mask

What it’s for: Dull skin; dry skin; antiaging concerns

Fast facts: Boosts radiance; reduces appearance of pores; firms skin; hydrates

To trust TikTok or not to trust TikTok? That is the existential beauty question we all face when confronted with a viral product. But we’re happy to report that this mask lives up to all the hype. It is packed with nourishing ingredients; think nine different types of peptide and a collagen complex to support the skin barrier and increase your natural elasticity. It also has glycerin to provide any needed hydration and brighten any dullness.

What our testers say:

Glamour’s Kilkeary tried this one before a wedding and loved how it prepped her skin for makeup. “It takes about three to four hours to work, or you can leave it on overnight, and after a certain amount of time, it becomes completely transparent. It left behind a nice glossy serum on my skin that I massaged in post-application, and it made my complexion velvety soft. I’d save this one for special occasions or on days before you want a stellar, crease-free makeup look.”

Best Korean Face Mask for Dull Skin: Anua Peach 70 Niacin Brightening Collagen Mask

  • Courtesy of brand
  • Original photo from Sarah Y. Wu testing Anua Peach 70 Niacin Brightening Collagen Mask

Anua Peach 70 Niacin Brightening Collagen Mask

Original video from Sarah Y. Wu testing Anua Peach 70 Niacin Brightening Collagen Mask

What it’s for: Dullness; hyperpigmentation

Fast facts: Overnight hydrogel mask; visible brightening effect; gentle formula; targets both overall dullness and dark spots

TikTok-viral brand Anua has launched several overnight hydrogel masks, and this brightening version is our favorite. It comes cut into two pieces for a precise fit and contains a mix of gentle brighteners that boost glow while minimizing the risk of irritation. “Niacinamide improves overall skin clarity, peach fruit extract provides mild exfoliation and antioxidant benefits, and hydrolyzed collagen offers temporary epidermal plumping and moisture retention,” says Dr. Hwang. He likes that the mask “targets pigmentary dullness, making it suitable for patients managing early photodamage or melasma-prone skin.” In his practice, he typically suggests it “for patients in their 20s to 40s as part of a preventive pigment-regulating routine, especially when hydroquinone or tretinoin cannot be tolerated.”

What our testers say:

“Like all hydrogel sleeping masks, the material changes color as it dries,” says Wu. “For demonstration purposes, I left this one on for a shorter 15-minute session and still saw a visible brightening, moisturizing effect. I definitely notice more glow the longer I leave it on, so my favorite way to use this is to wear one for a few hours when I work from home. It’s glass skin in a mask.”

Best Korean Retinol Face Mask: PRMR Vitatinol Serum Mega-Shot Gel Mask

  • Courtesy of brand
  • Original photo from Sarah Y. Wu testing PRMR Vitatinol Serum Mega-Shot Gel Mask

PRMR Vitatinol Serum Mega-Shot Gel Mask

Original video from Sarah Y. Wu testing PRMR Vitatinol Serum Gel Mask

What it’s for: Antiaging concerns; brightening; firming

Fast facts: Overnight gel mask that can also be worn for three hours; turns clear when dry; derm-recommended for its powerful combination of vitamin C and retinol

Dr. Chang loves the hero ingredient behind this mask: Vitatinol, a “proprietary retinol ingredient fused with vitamin C, my two favorite antiaging ingredients,” she says. It’s “designed to deliver intense hydration and antiaging benefits.” Dr. Hwang says this mask is a useful pick “for those looking to address early signs of aging,” although anyone with especially sensitive skin may want to do a patch test first.

What our testers say:

“I tested so many overnight gel masks recently, and this was one of the few that stood out,” says Wu. “I’m already a fan of PRMR’s Vitatinol Serum, and this mask feels like an even more concentrated treatment. I’m incapable of wearing sheet masks in my sleep, but I do love this for a shorter treatment during the day. I’m happy with the brightening effects even if I just leave it on for 30 to 40 minutes instead of the full three hours. My skin is so picky with retinol and can’t tolerate high concentrations, but I’ve never had any irritation with this formula.”

Best Korean Sheet Mask: Numbuzin No.3 Tingle-Pore Softening Sheet Mask

  • Courtesy of brand
  • Original photo from Sarah Y. Wu testing Numbuzin No.3 Tingle-Pore Softening Sheet Mask

Numbuzin No.3 Tingle-Pore Softening Sheet Mask

Original video from Sarah Y. Wu testing Numbuzin No.3 Tingle-Pore Softening Sheet Mask

What it’s for: Oily skin; uneven texture

Fast facts: Mildly tingly sheet mask designed for pore care; gives a subtle smoothing and refining effect; sensitive-skin types should patch test first

Numbuzin’s No.3 Tingle-Pore Softening Sheet Mask is one of Olive Young’s bestsellers and also won a Hwahae 2024 midyear award, which is where we discovered it. “It’s formulated with bifida ferment lysate and galactomyces ferment filtrate to hydrate and brighten,” explains Dr. Chang, who also loves the inclusion of “other hydrating ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, brightening antioxidants like niacinamide, and anti-inflammatory ingredients like witch hazel and Camellia sinensis.” She recommends it for a range of skin types including acne-prone skin. Dr. Hwang is also familiar with the mask’s popularity in South Korea. “It offers a cooling sensation while targeting pore refinement,” he says. According to Dr. Hwang, the mask’s signature tingling sensation makes it “refreshing for some,” but he says it might not be the best pick for sensitive or more reactive skin.

What our testers say:

“I definitely noticed the tingle right away, so I can confirm this mask lives up to its name,” says Wu. “I was worried it would be too much for my sensitive midface area, but it didn’t cause any irritation, and I’d rank the tingling sensation as mild. If you compare it to something like an acid peel that actually stings, this is low on the scale. I did notice that the pores in my T-zone looked slightly less noticeable, but the more visible results for me were the overall smoothing, brightening effect.”

Best Korean Overnight Face Mask: CosRx Ultimate Nourishing Rice Overnight Spa Mask

  • Courtesy of brand
  • Original photo from Sarah Y. Wu testing CosRx Ultimate Nourishing Rice Overnight Spa Mask

CosRx Ultimate Nourishing Rice Overnight Spa Mask

Original video from Sarah Y. Wu testing CosRx Ultimate Nourishing Rice Overnight Spa Mask

What it’s for: Sensitive skin; dullness; dryness

Fast facts: Moisturizer-like overnight sleeping mask; hydrating and brightening ingredients; recommended for sensitive, dull, and dry skin

Rice extract is a popular K-beauty ingredient that dermatologists often recommend for its anti-inflammatory, brightening, and hydrating benefits. This rice-infused sleeping mask is an under-the-radar hit from CosRx, the Korean skin care brand that helped popularize snail mucin creams. (If you’re looking for more recommendations from the brand, check out our list of the best CosRx products.) Formulated to feel like a cushiony moisturizer, this nourishing cream pairs rice extract with other hydrating and brightening ingredients like niacinamide and glycerin. Just smooth it on after your evening skin care routine in place of your face cream to lock in moisture and go to work overnight.

What our testers say:

“I love that this sleeping mask is actually easy to snooze in,” says Wu. “Despite its nourishing feel, it sinks in fast without stickiness so it’s truly pillow-proof. It’s too rich to use daily, but a few times a week—or when my combination skin feels dry—I’ll slather on a layer all over my face and neck before I sleep. It leaves my face soft and glowy when I wake up.”

Best Korean Face Mask for Acne Scars: Medicube Kojic Acid Turmeric Night Wrapping Mask

  • Courtesy of brand
  • Original photo from Audrey Noble testing Medicube Kojic Acid Turmeric Night Wrapping Mask

Medicube Kojic Acid Turmeric Night Wrapping Mask

Original video from Audrey Noble testing Medicube Kojic Acid Turmeric Night Wrapping Mask

What it’s for: Hyperpigmentation; dull skin; uneven texture

Fast facts: Overnight mask that peels off; brightens skin; softens; hydrates

This super-lightweight gel-moisturizer seeps into skin and dries quickly so it won’t smudge all over pillows. Similar to the original Medicube collagen mask, it’s gentle when peeling off and gives you a radiant complexion.

What our testers say:

“When I remove it, I love the soft and brighter skin that is revealed underneath,” says Glamour’s Noble. “It has kojic acid and tumeric to lighten up my many acne scars (thank you hormonal acne), and the retinol and collagen helps firm my skin. Perfect doesn’t exist, but I’d argue that this mask is the closest thing to it—at least where overnight masks are concerned.”

Best Korean Face Mask for Soothing: Laneige Water Sleeping Mask

  • Courtesy of brand
  • Original photo from Sarah Y. Wu testing Laneige Water Sleeping Mask

Laneige Water Sleeping Mask

Original video from Sarah Y. Wu testing Laneige Water Sleeping Mask

What it’s for: Sensitive skin; deep hydration; skin barrier

Fast facts: Recommended for dry and reactive skin; feels like a moisturizer; contains barrier-boosting, soothing ingredients; doesn’t rub off on pillows

This refreshing gel mask sinks in like a moisturizer and keeps skin hydrated while you sleep (without rubbing off on your bedding). “This formula focuses on humectants and barrier-supportive lipids,” says Dr. Hwang. Hyaluronic acid and squalane keep your complexion moisturized, while allantoin reduces irritation. He also likes the inclusion of beta-glucan, a great ingredient for your skin barrier. “Beta-glucan has clinical data supporting improved resilience and reduced redness,” he says. Try this mask if you have reactive skin or dryness from seasonal changes. “It’s also suitable for retinoid users looking to buffer irritation overnight,” says Dr. Hwang.

What our testers say:

“This sleeping mask feels like a creamy gel moisturizer and sinks in completely, so it’s pillow-proof,” says Wu. “It keeps my face calm and moisturized when my heater is blasting all winter. I like that it’s easy to use; I apply it in place of my evening moisturizer when my complexion needs extra care.”

Best Korean Face Mask for Firming: MDP+ Lacto Collagen Wrapping Mask

  • Courtesy of brand
  • Original photo from Sarah Y. Wu testing MDP+ Lacto Collagen Wrapping Mask

MDP+ Lacto Collagen Wrapping Mask

Original video from Sarah Y. Wu testing MDP+ Lacto Collagen Wrapping Mask

What it’s for: Sagging skin; antiaging concerns; dryness

Fast facts: Uses wrapping layer to boost absorption and create a temporary firming effect

One of the original overnight wrapping masks, this MDP+ formula goes on as a creamy gel, dries in 20 minutes, and peels off in the morning just like Medicube’s. We’d recommend this formula for sagging, dry, or tired skin. It’s formulated with lactobacillus ferment, an ingredient that supports your skin’s microbiome balance, as well as collagen and peptides. “The wrapping system increases absorption of peptides and collagen fragments,” says Dr. Hwang. “While topical collagen does not rebuild deep dermal collagen, it does improve hydration, elasticity, and tightness at the surface level.” Try it if you have “mild skin laxity, dullness, or decreased bounce.”

What our testers say:

“This is a great mask to pair with your favorite firming serums and moisturizers,” says Wu. “Although the effect is temporary, I notice that it seems to help everything work better and plump more. Don’t be scared about the peeling step; it’s still flexible and soft once it dries, so it won’t irritate your skin. You can wear this while you sleep but since it dries in 20 to 30 minutes, I like applying it during the day and peeling off for bouncy, smooth skin.”

Best Plumping Korean Face Mask: Torriden Cellmazing Firming Gel Mask

  • Courtesy of brand
  • Original photo from Sarah Y. Wu testing Torriden Cellmazing Firming Gel Mask

Torriden Cellmazing Firming Gel Mask

Original video from Sarah Y. Wu testing Torriden Cellmazing Firming Gel Mask

What it’s for: Sagging skin; antiaging concerns; dullness

Fast facts: Three-piece sheet mask for face and neck; visible firming effect

You’ve seen two-piece sheet masks, but each pack of Torriden’s firming gel mask contains three pieces: one for your forehead, one for your lower face, and a neck strip. Similar to Abib’s, it features a smooth and textured side; make sure the latter goes on your skin. Each piece is packed with hydrating and firming ingredients like panthenol, peptides, and hyaluronic acid. “This mask focuses on water-based plumping and results in a visibly bouncy glow,” says Dr. Hwang. “Hyaluronic acid pulls water into the skin, and peptides increase bounce. It’s best for people who feel their skin looks flat, tired, or dehydrated, especially after lack of sleep or travel.” Even after 15 minutes, the effect is visible, with one caveat. “It’s not a substitute for long-term collagen stimulation; the effect is instant but temporary.”

What our testers say:

“I need all my masks to come with a neck strip from now on,” says Wu. “It’s truly a genius addition because I always apply my serums and moisturizers to my neck, so why not my masks? I especially love that this one is firming and temporarily makes my neck lines look smoother and less noticeable. It has the same effect on my face and leaves my skin feeling incredibly hydrated and plump.”

Best Brightening Korean Face Mask: Timesavvy Sealing in Moisture Mask

  • Courtesy of brand
  • Original photo from Sarah Y. Wu testing Timesavvy Sealing In Moisture Mask

Timesavvy Sealing in Moisture Mask

Original video from Sarah Y. Wu testing Timesavvy Sealing in Moisture Mask

What it’s for: Dry skin; dullness

Fast facts: Cream sheet mask boosts glow without mess

Some like their sheet masks dripping in essence and some prefer them with less potential mess. If you fall into the second category, you’ll love this cream sheet mask from Timesavvy. The inside feels like soft fabric coated in a thin layer of moisturizer—just enough to coat your skin, but not so much you need to wipe off the excess. It also ensures the mask sticks to your face without slipping off. The cream layer is formulated with a blend of niacinamide, adenosine, and collagen so you get a quick brightening, hydrating effect with every application.

What our testers say:

“If you need the easiest mask ever for event prep or before work, go with this one,” says Wu. “I usually love a essence-soaked mask so I can slather the extra all over my neck, chest, and arms, but sometimes I just need to be done and out the door fast. I stick this on for 15 minutes, pull it off, and I’m glowy and ready to go.”


Frequently asked questions

Which brand’s face mask is most famous in Korea?

While TikTok is a good place to start researching products, some of Korea’s most popular skin care items don’t go viral globally. If you want an idea of what’s currently trending in South Korea, we recommend checking the Olive Young Awards and Hwahae. Right now, the Mediheal TeaTree Essential Mask (and the brand’s Madecassoside Essential Mask) are top sellers in South Korea. “The Olive Young Awards and Hwahae are key platforms that represent the landscape of skin care products in South Korea,” says Dr. Hwang. Olive Young issues its coveted awards every year, relying on “sales data and customer reviews” to confirm what’s most popular, says Dr. Hwang. Hwahae also announces its awards twice a year, every year, but the app tracks leading products in real time. “It’s a user-driven app that aggregates reviews and ratings, providing insights into current trends and ingredient transparency,” he says. “Together, these platforms reflect evolving trends in K-beauty.” To compile this list of the best Korean face masks, we searched the Olive Young and Hwahae awards, as well as TikTok-viral hits, Glamour editor favorites, and dermatologist recommendations.

Do dermatologists recommend face masks?

The short answer: Yes, they do. “Face masks can be beneficial for a wide variety of people and skin concerns,” says Dr. Chang. These at-home treatments can do everything from providing “a boost of hydration” to “improving acne-prone skin, inflamed skin, dull skin, or photoaged skin.” While they may not deliver the results of a dermatologist visit, they’re meant to do more than your daily skin care routine. “I recommend face masks if your skin is feeling particularly dry, if you need a boost of active ingredients, or if you just feel like being pampered for the evening,” says Dr. Chang.

What are some good Korean facial masks for dry and sensitive skin?

Prioritize gentle formulas and hydrating ingredients if you’re shopping for dry, dehydrated, or sensitive skin. We recommend the Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask, Dr. Althea Cushion Veil Calming Mask, House Dohwa White Rice Wash Off Face Mask, and CosRx Ultimate Nourishing Rice Overnight Spa Mask. Each of these options focuses on calming ingredients like Centella asiatica and heartleaf extracts, as well as nourishing, barrier-friendly hydrators like hyaluronic acid.

What are the top-rated Korean face masks for acne-prone skin?

If you’re prone to pimples and breakouts, try the Mediheal TeaTree Essential Mask or Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Poremizing Quick Clay Stick Mask. Both contain sebum-targeting ingredients like tea-tree-leaf water and kaolin clay to cleanse clogged pores and target acne-causing bacteria without stripping your skin of essential moisture.

What’s the difference between a sheet mask and an overnight mask?

“Sheet masks and overnight masks dominate the [K-beauty] market right now,” says Dr. Wonuk. According to Dr. Hwang, sheet masks are “favored for their convenience,” while overnight masks have become “increasingly popular for their intensive hydration properties.”

Do Korean face masks really work?

As seen by this comprehensive list, yes, Korean face masks really work. According to Dr. Kim, they work by delivering active ingredients and hydration to the skin. Korean masks have a wide variety of options to treat every skin concern. So whether you’re looking for calming properties, something to hydrate and brighten, or target antiaging concerns, there’s something for everyone. “You can pick and choose depending on your needs,” he says.

Meet our experts