The best peel-off masks can help correct a slew of skin care concerns, from discoloration to dullness to stubborn blackheads. They’re one of my favorite (and most ASMR-worthy) skin care treatments because they almost instantly make your skin look more even-toned and plump. They typically require either thick application of a rubbery formula or peel-off sheet that sinks into pores and helps remove impurities that clog up the skin.
Below, we spoke to dermatologists about how to use them, plus their recommendations on the very best types to try. We also tested a handful ourselves to determine if they’re really worth it for those who are looking for a clearer, brighter complexion (and spoiler alert, most lived up to the hype). Our favorite was the Medicube Collagen Overnight Wrapping Peel Off Facial Mask because it’s under $20, brightens, and leaves the skin feeling fresh and bouncy. We also found other picks suitable for oily skin, aging skin, and everything in between.
The best peel off masks, at a glance
Your peel off mask questions, answered
Do peel-off masks actually work?
According to the dermatologists we spoke to, peel-off masks can offer short term benefits. “They can help with oil control and remove surface debris. They can also smoothen the texture of your skin and can offer brightening effects,” says Margarita Lolis, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Hackensack, NJ. They contain ingredients like clays and exfoliants that can loosen sebum plugs and blackheads, which may allow them to be removed without squeezing or pressing the pore, says Rachel Nazarian, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in NYC.
How often should you use a peel-off mask?
Both Dr. Lolis and Dr. Nazarian suggest using peel-off masks sparingly and cautiously, depending on their ingredients, to avoid damage to the skin barrier. If it’s a peel-off mask you paint on and tear off, the physical manipulation (of tugging at your face) to the skin can be irritating to some, and should be used no more than once a week. If it’s a rubbery mask that lays on top of the skin, and then is peeled off, you can use these twice a week depending on your skin’s tolerance.
Are there any disadvantages for using peel-off masks?
“Peel-off masks are definitely more harsh on the skin than wash-off or leave-on masks. Peeling creates a pill-effect on the skin, stretching it out and then removing some of the outermost layers, which can potentially weaken the skin slightly, says Dr. Nazarian.
How we tested peel-off masks
We tested peel-off masks based on their consistency, how easy they were to apply and remove, and how our skin felt after wearing. We spotlighted formulas that were silky and smooth to the touch, making it easy to glide all over our skin, as well as those that came in sheet form which suited more sensitive skin types. We also judged formulas on how they peeled off, for example, whether they got stuck in any areas or to any hair. Finally, we looked at masks that left our skin looking bright, fresh and clarified.
Best Overall: Medicube Collagen Overnight Wrapping Peel Off Facial Mask
Original video from Jen Calle testing Medicube Collagen Overnight Wrapping Peel Off Facial Mask
- Pros: Leaves skin looking and feeling more resilient; under $20; comes off in one piece
- Cons: Might not be suitable for sensitive skin
Dr. Lolis is a big fan of this collagen overnight wrapping peel-off mask because it’s loaded with ingredients that really boost hydration, including hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, and niacinamide (a great antioxidant that corrects dark spots). It’s slick and lightweight to apply (not goopy), and takes only 15 minutes to fully dry.
“Personally, I’m not a fan of overnight masks or the “morning shed” trend. I move around in bed too much to keep anything on. Luckily, you don’t necessarily need to wear this face mask overnight to see its benefits. I applied this as I was starting my nighttime routine, and after wearing it for about an hour I peeled it off. It doesn’t feel tight like a clay mask which is nice. It was very satisfying to have what looks like literal glass skin, and then peel to reveal a super soft complexion. I like the applicator because the product is very gooey (not sticky though) so it was easy to use,” says Glamour senior commerce editor Jenifer Calle.
Best for Oily Skin: Florence by Mills Glowing Peel Off Mask
Original video from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Florence by Mills Glowing Peel Off Mask
Original photo from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Florence by Mills Glowing Peel Off Mask
Original photo from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Florence by Mills Glowing Peel Off Mask
- Pros: Fun to apply; oil-absorbing
- Cons: Gets stuck on hair so be careful around your hairline and eyebrows
If you have oily skin and are prone to blemishes, Dr. Nazarian recommends this peel-off mask. “This mask contains oil-absorbing witch hazel and charcoal, making it ideal for oily and acne-prone skin types. It’s also easy to apply because it’s creamy, she says. And Glamour commerce writer, Alanna Martine Kilkeary, agrees. “I really like this mask because it makes you feel like you’re getting a treatment at the spa. You can slug it all over your face in a nice, thick layer, and let it sit for it to get nice and tight and dry. The only complaint I have is that I wasn’t able to peel it off in one go (some areas dried a lot faster than others), but overall loved the job it did at shrinking my pores. You can clearly see in my before and after how radiant my skin look
Best for Blackheads: Sulwhasoo Clarifying Peel Off Mask
Original video from Brittany Loggins testing Sulwhasoo Clarifying Peel Off Mask
- Pros: Thick formula; removes impurities
- Cons: Pricey
“This Korean face mask does an impressive job at cleaning and clarifying while using gentle ingredients like ginseng, and Solomon’s seal powder, an alternative to vitamin C, so it’s not harsh but still brightens,” says Dr. Lolis. This clarifying peel mask can make pores look smaller and can help remove dead skin cells and blackheads for a visibly clearer complexion.
“After using this mask before going to bed, I woke up with the softest skin I’ve ever felt. I left it on for the full 30-minutes the night before, and it peeled off pretty easily with only a few areas where there was a build-up of product still damp. While my skin looked OK directly after using it, the real results were noticeable the next morning. Not only did my pores appear to be smaller, but my face just felt so hydrated even throughout the day. This influx of hydration is probably due to ingredients like glycerin, and ginseng root extract, both of which are ingredients intended to leave your skin looking not only more moisturized, but generally healthier. I can confirm that this was definitely the outcome, and while it’s a little pricey, I think I’ll get about eight to ten uses out of the bottle. I can’t wait to use it again,” says Glamour contributor Brittany Loggins.
Best for Sensitive Skin: Dr. Jart+ Cryo Rubber Firming Face Mask
Original VIDEO from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Dr. Jart+ Cryo Rubber Firming Face Mask
Original photo from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Dr. Jart+ Cryo Rubber Firming Face Mask
Original photo from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Dr. Jart+ Cryo Rubber Firming Face Mask
- Pros: Cools skin; reduces redness; deeply hydrates
- Cons: Not a traditional “peel-off”
Let’s say you have sensitive skin but want to garner the satisfaction of a peel-off mask. This firming face mask does just the trick because it doesn’t adhere to your skin in the same way, yet gives you the same results and experience. It comes with an ampoule that you first apply all over the face, then the rubber mask itself that sits on top. It’s ultra-hydrating with glycerin and will leave your skin smooth and bouncy in just 20 minutes.
“If I want the feel of a peel-off mask but my combination skin is acting up or feels sensitive, I reach towards this option. It gives you that ASMR worthy peel while being a lot gentler on the skin. It’s super hydrating and gives me a fresh face every time, whether I apply it before bed or before makeup application. Plus, it keeps my skin in check and helps reduce redness in areas around my nose and chin,” says Glamour’s Kilkeary.
Best for Travel: Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask
Original video from Jen Calle testing BIODANCE Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask
- Pros: Easy to bring with you anywhere and comes in a pack of four
- Cons: It rips if you’re not careful during placement
“I wore this on a five hour flight to Mexico City—yes, I was that person—and it was the best thing I did. It’s extremely hydrating which is particularly helpful against the dry air from the airplane. It’s super slick though, so you do have to maneuver it around your face. If you have long nails like me you might cut into the mask, so I recommend opening it gently. After I placed it on my face, I wore my cap and headphones, and wasn’t really bothered by it at all. Before landing, I peeled off the (now clear) mask, and I was left with an amazing glow, which lasted way into the day. My face was so dewy that I didn’t even feel the need to apply foundation. Once I arrived to CDMX, I put on blush and mascara and went out to dinner. It was only my second time using it and I was amazed at the glowy finish (my video doesn’t do it justice). I recommend packing a couple of these face masks for your next flight. Even though it’s meant to be for overnight use, after about three hours the mask goes from opaque to clear,” says Glamour’s Calle.
Most Satisfying Peel: I DEW CARE Peel Off Mask Sugar Kitten
Original video by Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing the I DEW CARE Peel Off Mask Sugar Kitten
Original image of Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing the I DEW CARE Peel Off Mask Sugar Kitten
Original image of Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing the I DEW CARE Peel Off Mask Sugar Kitten
- Pros: Has multiple versions to address various skin care concerns
- Cons: Peels off easily
If you’re here for a satisfying peel, this peel-off mask is a must-try. It comes in a few versions, Sugar Kitten for hydration, Disco Kitten for illumination, Space Kitten for blackheads, and Gold Kitten for tightening. The best part is you can mix and match applying these masks in different areas as you please, or stick to one to help combat a specific skin care concern.
