The Biggest Skincare Mistake You’re Probably Making Is Not Using an Overnight Mask

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Going through the steps of our nighttime skincare routine involves a little effort for a big reward. This is particularly true if you choose formulas such as overnight face masks designed to revitalize the complexion while you sleep. And if you’re not using overnight masks…maybe you should.

“Overnight face masks are a great way to wake up with skin that feels smoother, firmer, and more refreshed,” says Dr. Dendy Engelman, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. Whether you go with a collagen sheet mask or a thirst-quenching gel cream formula, the best overnight face masks can replenish your skin’s moisture barrier and give you glowing skin as soon as you wake up.

Best Overnight Masks at a Glance 

• Best Overall: Peace Out Skincare Barrier Revitalizing & Renewing Overnight Recovery Mask, $9
• Best Soothing: Sisley Paris Velvet Sleeping Mask with Saffron flowers, $170
• Best Sheet Mask: Biodance Bio Collagen Real Deep Mask , $19
• Best Hydrating: LANEIGE Water Sleeping Mask , $32
• Best Firming: fresh Black Tea Firming Overnight Mask, $28 (was $40)
• Best K-Beauty Mask: Sulwhasoo Overnight Vitalizing Mask, $54
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Tatcha Indigo Overnight Repair, $92
• Best for Slugging: LOOPS Dream Sleep Slugging Mask, $7
• Best for Plane Travel: Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask , $49
• Best for Redness: Dr. Jart+ Cicapair™ Tiger Grass Sleepair Intensive Night Mask, $45

How to Use an Overnight Mask 

An overnight face mask is exactly what it sounds like—a face mask that you wear overnight. These masks come in a variety of formulas, ranging from thicker creams (kind of like a cold cream) to sheet masks, so usage depends on the mask itself. For best results, review the face mask’s instructions to learn how to apply it correctly, how long to wear it for, and when to remove it. 

Benefits of an Overnight Mask

According to dermatologists, overnight face masks are the secret to getting even more hydrated skin while you sleep. “Overnight masks are a great way to maximize hydration and deliver targeted treatment while the skin is in repair mode during sleep,” says Dr. Engelman. While sheet masks are becoming more and more popular for their convenience (and how well they actually stay on while you sleep), Dr. Engelman says cream-based formulas are still totally worth the added skincare step. “Cream-based formulas create a breathable seal over the skin that helps to prevent moisture loss and allows ingredients such as peptides, ceramides, and antioxidants to work more effectively,” she explains. “When used for extended wear, sheet masks help to unfuse the skin with hydration and nutrients while keeping the surface saturated.” 

Are Overnight Masks Safe for All Skin Types?

Dr. Engelman says overnight face masks can benefit anyone looking to boost hydration, calm inflammation, or support skin repair—especially for those with dry, sensitive, or mature skin. “If your skin is feeling dehydrated or stressed, an overnight mask can offer a much-needed reset,” she notes. “Most people can use an overnight mask one to two times a week, but some gentle, hydrating formulas can be used more frequently, depending on your skin’s needs.” 

If you need help figuring out which overnight face mask to try, we’ve compiled a list of our all-time favorite formulas, including some Dr. Dendy swears by. Here are the best overnight face masks to try. 

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The Best Overnight Face Masks