Application

Dry sheet masks are applied in a similar manner as traditional wet versions. After cleansing and toning, apply the mask to your face. The Nannette de Gaspe, Miss de Gaspe and Charlotte Tilbury masks all have ear straps for a secure fit. Like most other sheet masks, they're meant to be left on for about 15 minutes. The difference is, most dry sheet mask instructions encourage you to massage the mask while wearing it for maximum absorption.

Reusing dry sheet masks

Dry sheet masks can actually be reused without compromising hygiene. For instance, the Charlotte Tilbury dry mask instructions state that it can be worn three times. Similarly, the Nannette de Gaspe products are reusable for about three to five applications, depending on the condition of skin. Beaubien explains that after each application, users just have to ensure they keep the infuser dry and seal it up in the hygienic pouch to prevent it from drying out.

Image via Miss de Gaspe

Though Beaubien says that Nannette de Gaspe masks are suitable for all skin types, Chao cautions that some dry sheet mask formulas might not be ideal for everyone. She warns that the heavier formulas might be problematic for those with oily or blemish-prone skin. What's more, some users have stated dry sheet masks can leave behind an oily residue, which feels unpleasant on oily skin.

Those with dehydrated skin might find that dry sheet mask formulas lack the humectant-rich, watery moisturizer they need. Those with sensitive skin should also be careful as some dry mask reviewers have complained about redness and irritation.

Image via @missdegaspe

Being able to hygienically reuse the masks is one big positive. Another good thing about the dry formula is that there's less mess. This makes dry sheet masks great for traveling.

In the case of the Nannette de Gaspe range, Beaubien says their infusers behave more like serums so they deliver more actives deeper into the layers of the skin, creating longer-lasting results and a difference in skin over time. The key is the formula. The infusers are crafted out of 87 percent active ingredients. In contrast, Beaubien says traditional sheet masks are about 85 percent water and glycerin, and just 5 to 7 percent active ingredients.

Image via Nannette de Gaspe

Aside from the irritation concerns we mentioned, some reviewers complained that they didn't notice any change in their skin post-treatment. Another negative is the price. Even factoring the cost per use, dry sheet masks are more expensive compared to traditional masks. The Miss de Gaspe masks clock in at $32 each while the Charlotte Tilbury dry sheet mask costs $27. The Nannette de Gaspe masks start at $75 and go up to $360 for a set.

Fans of traditional saturated sheet masks may have a hard time adjusting to the sensation of a dry sheet mask. Some reviewers describe it as uncomfortable or unpleasant and report issues of the mask not adhering to the face properly.

Image via Miss de Gaspe

In the contest for best sheet mask, Chao feels that the traditional "wet" formulas reign supreme. She reasons that the lack of any kind of water or humectant component highly limits the usefulness of a dry sheet mask. "Personally, I don't see any substantial pros to using dry sheet masks. Some people dislike the wet feel of a more standard watery sheet mask so they may prefer the experience of a dry sheet mask," she says. "Beyond that, I'm doubtful that they produce results any better than the results one would get from using a regular moisturizer appropriate for one's skin concerns."

She recommends creamy sheet masks — like the Moksha Dear Shea Butter Mask Sheet, $2.50, and Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Creamy Masks, $120 — as an excellent compromise for people who need the richness promised by dry sheet masks but want some of the hydration of watery sheet masks.

Beaubien raises a point about seeing dry sheet masks as their own entity. "The only portion of our product that resembles a sheet mask in the slightest is its application in that it is a textile that is applied to the face," she explains. "Our product is entirely dry and is activated through a light massage of the area and your body's natural pH and temperature." Infusers also promise a release of ingredients for six to eight hours after application.

We say, experiment with the different formulas to see which masks work best for your skin and then adjust your beauty regimen accordingly.

Image via @missdegaspe