Meet The £12 Sheet Mask Everyone’s Talking About

Sheet masks are back in the spotlight but for different reasons. Driven by viral favourites like Medicube  and Biossance, alongside established players such as Dr Jart+, all of them now promise visible hydration rather than just a fleeting, temporary glow. The result? A far more competitive category, where masks are judged less on ritual and more on how the skin looks afterwards.

This launch from L’Oréal Paris feels well-timed. Designed to be worn for 90 minutes, the hydrogel mask gradually turns transparent as the skin absorbs the serum – a detail that taps into the social-first skincare moment without feeling gimmicky. More importantly, it positions itself as a practical alternative to pricier options, offering the same slow-release hydration and polished finish but in a far more accessible way.

The formula focuses on hydration and barrier support rather than surface shine. Hyaluronic acid draws moisture into the skin to help maintain plumpness, while glycerin works as a humectant, supporting longer-lasting hydration by reducing water loss. Centella asiatica, a familiar ingredient in barrier-focused skincare, helps soothe and support stressed skin, making the mask suitable for a wide range of skin types.

What sets it apart is the hydrogel format. Unlike traditional sheet masks, which can dry out quickly and limit ingredient absorption, hydrogel creates an occlusive layer that holds moisture against the skin for longer. That extended contact allows ingredients to absorb more gradually, delivering results that appear more even and longer-lasting than a standard 15-minute mask.

After use, skin appears more hydrated, smoother and visibly fresher, with a subtle luminosity rather than high-shine glow. It’s not a dramatic overhaul but it does what a good mask should – recalibrates skin when it’s looking dull, tired or slightly out of sorts. Think of it as a reset rather than a miracle.

When put to the test, this works well as a weekly treatment or a pre-event boost when skin needs a bit of extra support. Follow up with your usual moisturiser to seal in hydration or make it part of a longer routine if you’re leaning into the glass skin look.

Available at BOOTS.COM