Introducing the Best Face Masks to Buy in Japan | Recommended Products by Type (Clay, Cream, etc.) and by Skin Concerns (Pores, Sensitive Skin, etc.)
Table of Contents
- Recommended Products and Effects/Features by Face Mask Type
- Recommended Masks by Skin Concern
- Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Face Masks by Type: Products, Effects & Features
Sheet Masks
Features & Effects
- An intensive moisturizing mask designed for mature skin, targeting dryness and rough texture
- Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines caused by dryness (efficacy tested)
- Designed for daily use with a “365-day aging care formula” that softens and deeply hydrates skin
- Unique “penetrating serum capsules” deliver beauty ingredients deep into the stratum corneum
- Contains L22®, an oil that replicates the sebum balance of healthy 22-year-old skin, for smooth and supple texture
- Quick 5–10 minute care leaves skin plump and free of roughness
Cream Masks
Features & Effects
- A rinse-off cream mask that gives you salon-like skin in just 15–20 minutes
- Fluffy, whipped-like texture that spreads smoothly and adheres gently to the skin
- Contains Resurrection Plant Extract (Haberlea Rhodopensis Leaf Extract) for excellent moisture retention and hydration
- Beauty ingredients like Placenta Extract and Yeast Extract help enhance firmness and radiance
- Addresses multiple skin concerns such as dryness, roughness, uneven texture, and dullness
- Restores the skin’s natural condition, leaving it plump with a bright and translucent glow
- Scented with essential oils (Rosemary Leaf Oil, Lavender Oil, Bitter Orange Flower Oil) for added relaxation
Clay Masks
Features & Effects
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Deep pore cleansing
Mineral-rich clay and coral powder penetrate deep into pores to absorb excess sebum and dead skin cells, leaving the skin smooth and clear. -
Boosts hydration and firmness
Designed to continuously supply high-quality moisture rich in amino acids during use, preventing post-wash dryness and promoting dewy, firm skin. -
Relaxing & purifying facial care
Scented with natural essential oils such as bergamot and frankincense in a woody floral tone, helping to enhance blood circulation and provide a relaxing experience.
Peel-Off Masks
Features & Effects
- Just apply and peel off! Removes pore impurities and provides hydration
- Effectively absorbs stubborn dirt and blackheads that can’t be removed with regular cleansing
- Especially formulated for strawberry pores on the nose and T-zone
- Eliminates excess sebum and dullness for brighter, smoother skin
- Enhances makeup application after use
- Refreshing strawberry scent to uplift your mood
Gel Masks
Features & Effects
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Just apply at the end of your nighttime skincare routine!
Delivers a sealed-in moisturizing effect, like wearing a sheet mask while you sleep. The gel pack adheres to your skin and infuses it with moisture overnight. -
Bouncy, creamy gel serum
Easily absorbed, non-sticky yet deeply hydrating. Can be layered on dry areas for intensive care. -
Contains 9 moisturizing amino acids + 2 clarifying amino acids
Enhances the skin's moisture retention and refines texture. Mildly acidic and low-irritation formula, ideal for sensitive skin. -
Oil to support the skin’s barrier function
Formulated with penetrating amino acid-based oil (lauroyl glutamic acid derivative) to protect skin from dryness and external irritants.
Sleeping Masks
Features & Effects
-
Just apply and sleep—wake up to plump, hydrated skin
While you sleep, beauty ingredients envelop your skin, keeping it moisturized through the night. Wake up to radiant, firm skin with a “glow pearl” effect. -
Refreshing gel texture that’s non-sticky and comfortable
The lightweight gel blends easily into the skin and doesn’t stick to bedding. -
Just one extra step after toner and lotion
A simple step to seal in your usual skincare routine like a “moisture lid.” -
Prevents skin roughness and promotes smooth texture
Targets dryness-related dullness and uneven tone, leaving skin looking even and refined.
Recommended Masks by Skin Concern
Dryness & Moisturizing Care
Features & Effects
-
Medicated dual-action formula for anti-inflammation & brightening
Combines anti-inflammatory ingredients with brightening agents to prevent rough skin, spots, and freckles—ideal for sensitive, easily irritated skin while enhancing clarity. -
Rich, milky serum formulation
Emollient (oil-based moisturizing) effects help smooth out dry skin. Though milk-based, the mask is non-sticky and leaves skin soft and plump. -
High-adhesion soft sheet
The sheet clings closely to the skin without dripping, offering comfort even on busy days. -
Gentle formula for sensitive and dry skin
Fragrance-free, colorant-free, and alcohol (ethanol)-free for a low-irritation, skin-friendly experience.
Dullness & Brightening
Features & Effects
-
Contains brightening active ingredient "Tranexamic Acid"
Suppresses melanin production to prevent spots and freckles. This medicated whitening mask promotes clear, radiant skin from deep within. -
Rich in anti-inflammatory and moisturizing ingredients
Formulated with Glycyrrhizic Acid 2K and other hydrating and soothing components to care for roughness and dryness while brightening. -
Soft sheet with excellent adhesion
Gently fits the contours of the face and holds 20ml of serum for intensive moisture care. -
Medicated formula: fragrance-free, colorant-free, and low-irritation
Gentle enough for sensitive skin and great for those new to brightening skincare.
Anti-Aging Care (Firmness & Elasticity)
Features & Effects
-
Medical-grade skincare with 100ppm of retinol
Contains a powerful 100ppm blend of pure retinol and retinol derivative (retinyl palmitate) in a balanced formula. Targets firmness, pores, texture, and radiance to boost your skin’s natural vitality. -
Low-irritation formula inspired by post-laser care
Designed for safe daily use with “laser-level care.” Patch tested and stinging tested. Free from alcohol, parabens, mineral oil, fragrance, and colorants. -
Nanocapsulation technology for enhanced stability
Retinol is nano-encapsulated for better penetration and stability, ensuring deep delivery into the stratum corneum and long-lasting effectiveness. -
One full bottle of serum in a high-adhesion sheet
Each sheet contains 20ml of concentrated serum. Uses a thick, highly adhesive microfiber sheet that clings to the skin and delivers ingredients effectively even in a short time.
Pore, Sebum & Shine Control
Features & Effects
-
Targets dry, enlarged pores
Formulated with 100% domestically sourced rice-derived beauty ingredients to balance skin moisture and minimize the appearance of pores. -
Leaves skin plump and refined
Fills pores opened by dryness with moisture, enhancing skin elasticity and smooth texture. -
Soft, close-fitting sheet for comfortable use
Made with thick, stretchable cotton sheets that conform well to the face and resist dripping. -
Comes in a 10-sheet resealable pouch
Resealable packaging keeps masks from drying out, making it ideal and economical for daily use.
Sensitive Skin & Irritation Care
Features & Effects
-
Resets skin damage caused by external stress with moisture
The refreshing serum penetrates deeply into the stratum corneum, hydrating the skin while preventing irritation and roughness. -
Contains Green Botanical Complex
Includes Centella Asiatica Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Sage Oil, Hyaluronic Acid, Fermented Fruit Extracts with Lactic Acid Bacteria, and GL (Glyceryl Glucoside) to support skin balance and strengthen the moisture barrier. -
Gentle enough for daily use
Mildly acidic, fragrance-free, colorant-free, mineral oil-free, and alcohol-free (ethanol-free). Dermatologically tested: patch tested, stinging tested, and non-comedogenic tested. -
All-in-one care with 5 benefits in 1 sheet
Functions as a toner, astringent, serum, emulsion, and mask—perfect for quick skincare on busy days. -
Smooth-fitting sheet made from 100% biomass material
No binders or adhesives used. Soft and skin-friendly, with an eco-conscious design that's kind to both your skin and the planet.
Special Care & Tired Skin
Features & Effects
-
All-in-one nighttime care in just 1 minute
Simply apply after a bath or face wash—your nighttime skincare is done, and you can go straight to sleep. A time-saving design for tired evenings. -
High moisture retention & sebum balance support
Balances moisture and oil disrupted by dryness or daytime stress, leaving your skin soft, dewy, and well-hydrated. -
"Water-sealing veil formula" delivers hydration deep into the skin
Serum penetrates the stratum corneum while keeping the surface hydrated—moisture lasts until morning. -
Supports barrier function with 4 types of human-type ceramides
Includes Ceramides NG, NP, AP, and EOP to improve hydration and strengthen the skin’s foundation. -
Also supports anti-aging care
Contains moisturizing ingredients inspired by 22-year-old skin to replenish moisture and oil levels that decrease with age, promoting a healthy skin environment. -
Formulated with two types of Vitamin C
Ascorbyl Glucoside and Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate help refine the skin and enhance clarity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is it okay to use a face mask every day?
A. It depends on the product, but masks labeled for "daily use" (e.g., LuLuLun, Clear Turn) are safe to use daily.
High-performance or intensive masks with high concentrations of retinol or vitamin C are best used 2–3 times per week.
Q2. Should I use a face mask right after cleansing? Or during my skincare routine?
A. Generally, it's best to use it immediately after cleansing.
Many masks are designed to act as a toner substitute and are formulated to be used as the first step in skincare, such as sheet and gel masks.
Q3. Do I still need skincare after using a face mask?
A. Unless it’s an all-in-one type, you should follow up with a moisturizer or cream to lock in hydration.
Those with dry or sensitive skin should not skip post-mask hydration.
Q4. Is it better to leave the mask on for a longer time?
A. No, that's a bad idea. Leaving it on too long can cause the mask to dry out and draw moisture from your skin.
Stick to the time indicated on the packaging (usually 5–15 minutes) for best results.
Q5. Can I use a mask before my period or when my skin is irritated?
A. When your skin is sensitive, choose masks with low-irritation formulas that are alcohol-free, fragrance-free, and colorant-free.
CICA-based or amino acid-based masks with calming and moisturizing effects are recommended.
Q6. What’s the difference between sleeping masks and regular masks?
A. Sleeping masks are meant to be left on overnight, forming a moisture-sealing layer for long-lasting hydration.
Regular masks need to be removed or rinsed off after a set time.
Q7. Can I apply makeup over a face mask?
A. Morning-use sheet masks (e.g., Saborino) are designed to allow immediate makeup application.
For night-use or deep moisturizing masks, wait a bit for absorption or gently blot before applying makeup.
Q8. I don’t know which type suits me best.
A. Choose based on your skin condition and goals:
- Dry skin → Sheet masks, sleeping masks, gel masks
- Pores/sebum → Clay masks, peel-off masks
- Sensitive skin → Amino acid or CICA-infused masks
- Anti-aging → Retinol or ceramide-based masks