19 Best Anti-aging Sleep Masks: Do they live up to promises?

Did you know wrinkles can start forming from your 20s?! Especially if you spent more than your fair share of time in the sun or live a stressful lifestyle. I know when I became a mom, I looked 10 years older overnight.

Face masks are awesome and an irreplaceable step in your anti-aging skin care routine. But for those of us who are busy living life, who has the time to sit around waiting for face masks to work?

That’s where anti-aging sleep masks come in. Let the masks do their magic while you get your beauty rest. Your skin naturally recovers at night while you sleep so by using the right face mask, you’re actually boosting its recovery rate. However…

Do anti-aging face masks actually work?

The awful truth is that nothing reverses permanent wrinkles. Even cosmetic surgery like Botox only works partially, and only for certain types of wrinkles. In the case of wrinkles, prevention really is better than cure.

However, there are ways to improve your skin health and make your wrinkles appear less prominent. Using an anti-aging sleep mask is one ‘easy way’.

Read on to find out which overnight anti-aging face mask is best for you.

Tip: If you are short on time and want to get to the gist of it all, read my wrap up at the end of the article.

Best Anti-aging Sleep Masks for Dry Skin

Perricone MD Multi-action Overnight Intensive Firming Mask

What is the Perricone MD Multi-action Overnight Intensive Firming Mask?

This firming mask comes in a 59 ml (2 fl. Oz.) jar and has a rich, creamy consistency. On massaging into your skin, it absorbs easily, leaving no obvious trace. Perricone MD claims a light and refreshing scent but the fragrance is used to cover up the original fishy smell!

How to use the Perricone MD Multi-action Overnight Intensive Firming Mask?

Massage the creamy mask into your cleansed face and neck in the evening. Wait a few minutes until it is fully absorbed. You can then follow on with a moisturizer if necessary (only if you have very dry skin).

What does the Perricone MD Multi-action Overnight Intensive Firming Mask claim?

Perricone MD claims this face mask can reduce the appearance of your fine lines, wrinkles and pores. They also claim your face will look more radiant and feel firmer and softer the morning after. Nice.

Power anti-aging ingredients in the Perricone MD Multi-action Overnight Intensive Firming Mask

Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is a potent antioxidant. There is evidence that topically-applied ALA can decrease skin roughness and protect skin from sun damage and inflammation.

Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE) is found in fish. There is very little research done on topical DMAE but small studies have shown that it can increase skin firmness.

Coconut oil is a well-known kitchen staple and skin care product. It has been found to have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.

Does the Perricone MD Multi-action Overnight Intensive Firming Mask live up to its promises?

Yes. Used over a period of time, many women have found their fine lines and wrinkles substantially softened.

Most women also found the mask to be very moisturizing and their skin felt softer and firmer the morning after.

Pros

• Effective in reducing appearance of fine lines and pores
• Gluten-free

Cons

• Can irritate sensitive skin
• Despite the fragrance, can still smell fishy to sensitive noses

Who is the Perricone MD Multi-action Overnight Intensive Firming Mask recommended for?

Women with dry, mature skin and fine lines.

Who is the mask not recommended for?

Women with sensitive skin or oily skin.

NIOD Voicemail Mask

What is the NIOD Voicemail Mask?

This mask is a night leave-on masque treatment that is made from a suspension of plant stem cells in silicones. It comes in a 50 ml (1.7 fl. oz.) glass light-proof apothecary bottle. The product is dark brown in colour and has a honey-like consistency.

How to use the NIOD Voicemail Mask?

NIOD recommends to use this mask twice a week instead of your usual night time moisturizer. You can apply light serums underneath but not thicker creams. Massage the mask into your face and neck for 20-40 seconds and leave on for the night. Do not apply other skin care products over the mask.

What does the NIOD Voicemail Mask claim?

It’s hard to know what NIOD actually claims. True to its usual style, NIOD’s description of this mask is flowery and sounds wonderful but confusing.

From what I understand, NIOD claims this mask restores the youthful appearance of your skin and improves dull skin tones by increasing skin cell communication.

Power anti-aging ingredients in the NIOD Voicemail Mask

Lactococcus Ferment Lysate  is a probiotic from Lactococcus lactis. It’s a promising but fairly unproven ingredient in skin care.

Plant stem cells  used in this mask is derived from mountain flowers and narrowleaf plaintain. While live plant stem cells have a myriad of regenerative properties, plant stem cells used in cosmetic products are usually stem cell extracts and already dead so it’s hard to see how this ingredient can improve human skin cell regeneration. However, stem cell extracts can contain anti-oxidants and other beneficial components that can help improve our skin condition.

Purified polyphenols from oregano leaves can help lighten pigmentation.

Fractionated spectrum of hyaluronic acid is supposedly the only form of hyaluronic acid that can penetrate the epidermis (top layer) of your skin.

Does the NIOD Voicemail Mask live up to its promises?

Yes. You will find it hard to stop touching your face the next morning as your skin will actually feel silky. Your dry patches would disappear and your face will look smoother and more radiant.

Pros

• Effective
• Value-for-money, a little goes a long way

Cons

• Strong herbal smell (I love the smell but it might be a bit strong for some)
• Due to its brown colour, if the mask hasn’t absorbed fully into your skin before bed, it can stain your sheets.

Who is the NIOD Voicemail Mask recommended for?

Women with dry, mature skin.

Who is the mask not recommended for?

Women with oily skin, especially if you are prone to clogged pores and acne.

Fresh Black Tea Firming Overnight Mask

What is the Fresh Black Tea Firming Overnight Mask?

This mask comes in 30 ml and 100 ml pots. It has a thick creamy consistency and absorbs quickly into your skin.

How to use the Fresh Black Tea Firming Overnight Mask?

Apply the mask every night on your entire face after cleansing. Leave on overnight. You can use it in place of your usual night moisturizer but if you want more hydration, you can use a serum and moisturizer under the mask.

What does the Fresh Black Tea Firming Overnight Mask claim?

Fresh claims this mask can give you a more contoured, defined complexion. I assume this means it can firm your skin tone. They also claim it improves skin dullness.

Power anti-aging ingredients in the Fresh Black Tea Firming Overnight Mask

Black tea complex consisting of black tea extract, black tea ferment, blackberry leave extract and lychee seed extract has anti-oxidant properties to inhibit free radicals and improves skin elasticity by its anti-wrinkle activity.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a super popular ingredient in skin care. It’s a humectant – that means it draws water to the skin and prevents moisture loss. However, other than fractionated HA and newer nano-hyaluronic acid, HA molecules are too large to penetrate the top layers of our skin and only work superficially.

Does the Fresh Black Tea Firming Overnight Mask live up to its promises?

No, it doesn’t show any obvious firming effect.

But yes, it definitely hydrates your skin and can help your skin look more radiant.

Pros

• A little goes a long way
• Non-sticky feeling

Cons

• Can clog pores when used too often
• For a mask that mostly functions as a moisturizer, it’s quite expensive

Who is the Fresh Black Tea Firming Overnight Mask  recommended for?

Women with dry skin and younger women who don’t have wrinkles or fine lines yet.

Who is the mask not recommended for?

Women with oily or combination skin and older women

Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask

What is the Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask?

This creamy and rich overnight mask comes in a 75 ml (2.5 fl. oz.) beautiful green tube. You can use it as a leave-on overnight mask, a wash-off mask or even as a hand mask or cream.

How to use the Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask?

Apply a generous layer to cleansed skin before bed. Let it absorb for a while then tissue the excess off. Origins recommend that you use the mask twice a week. They even say you can use it as a moisturizing hand mask or cream although that would make it a very expensive hand cream.

What does Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask claim?

Origins claim this mask will moisturize your face for up to 72 hours. They also claim that your fine lines will be less obvious and your face will feel firmer the morning after.

Power anti-aging ingredients in the Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask

Swiss glacier water is well-known as mineral-rich water and used in many skin care products.

Hyaluronic acid (HA)  is another popular ingredient in skin care but  other than fractionated HA and newer nano-hyaluronic acid, HA molecules are generally too large to penetrate the top layers of our skin and only work superficially.

Avocado butter is rich in healthy fats and nutrients. It is an excellent source of nourishment for dry, damaged or chapped skin. Topical administration of avocado extract on wounds noted quicker wound repair, reduced inflammation and increased collagen production.

Does the Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask live up to its promises?

In general yes, it is a very hydrating mask and plumps up your face the morning after. This reduces the appearance of fine lines. It doesn’t moisturize for 72 hours though… even for this rich mask, that claim is a bit rich.

Pros

• 100% vegan
• Very moisturizing

Cons

• Fragranced
• The creamy texture can feel heavy and greasy
• The mask doesn’t absorb very well and can feel like it sits on your skin rather than sinking in
• Can clog pores so use sparingly

Who is the Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask recommended for?

Women with dry skin

Who is the mask not recommended for?

Women with oily skin or issues with clogged pores and breakouts.

Innisfree Jeju Orchid Sleeping Mask

What is the Innisfree Jeju Orchid Sleeping Mask?

This gel-like mask is inspired by Jeju Island Orchids and comes in a simple 80 ml (2.7 fl. oz.) purple tube.

How to use the Innisfree Jeju Orchid Sleeping Mask?

Apply to your entire cleansed face as the last step in your evening skin care routine, avoiding your eyes and lips. Gently massage it in for better absorption, leave on overnight and rinse with water in the morning.

What does the Innisfree Jeju Orchid Sleeping Mask claim?

This mask claims a unique 5 in 1 effect – it claims to smoothen, strengthen, brighten, nourish and tighten your skin as well as address the ‘multiple signs’ of early aging.

Power anti-aging ingredients in the Innisfree Jeju Orchid Sleeping Mask

Orchid Elixir 2.0 is a potent complex extracted from every part of the Jeju Orchid from root to petal. Orchid extracts works in a similar way to vitamin C derivatives to whiten skin.

Hyaluronic acid as mentioned before, is a popular ingredient in skin care products but only works superficially as a moisture barrier.

Niacinamide is one of the best studied ingredients in anti-aging skin care products and one of my favourites. It strengthens the skin barrier, helping the skin heal quicker.

Does the Innisfree Jeju Orchid Sleeping Mask live up to its promises?

No. It’s a good hydrating mask but if you have ‘multiple signs’ of aging, it will not have any effect on those.

Pros

• Quick absorption
• A little goes a long way

Cons

• Fragranced
• Too rich for nightly use

Who is the Innisfree Jeju Orchid Sleeping Mask recommended for?

Younger women as preventative anti-aging treatment.

Who is the mask not recommended for?

Older women as anti-aging treatment (if you’re only using it for its hydration effects, it will work just fine).

Best anti-aging sleep masks for oily or combination skin

Missha Super Aqua Cell Renew Snail Sleeping Mask

What is the Missha Super Aqua Cell Renew Snail Sleeping Mask?

This popular K-beauty product is a sleep mask that comes in a 110 ml tube. It has a thick, creamy consistency and absorbs over half an hour so make sure you apply the mask at least 15-30 minutes before bed.

Fun fact: This snail sleep mask actually does contain snail slime (15%). The snails are imported from France, raised in Korea and fed Korean Red Ginseng. The slime is then harvested from 5-6 month old (teenage) snails. Snails only produce 1g of snail slime over 6 hours so snail slime is precious stuff.

How to use the Missha Super Aqua Cell Renew Snail Sleeping Mask?

After cleansing, apply the mask as the last step in your skin care routine instead of moisturizer. Gently pat the cream into your skin at least 15-30 minutes before bed. Missha recommends to use it 2-3 times a week but you can probably use this every night without issues.

What does the Missha Super Aqua Cell Renew Snail Sleeping Mask claim?

Missha claims this sleep mask can increase skin firmness and repair damaged skin by natural skin cell regeneration.

Power anti-aging ingredients in the Missha Super Aqua Cell Renew Snail Sleeping Mask

Botanical stem cells are used often in skin care products to supply energy to skin cells but the actual effect on skin cell regeneration is not really proven.

Snail slime extract contains lots of complex active chemicals and lab studies actually do prove that snail slime can increase cell regenerationand growth!

Does the Missha Super Aqua Cell Renew Snail Sleeping Mask live up to its promises?

Partially yes, the snail mask increases skin firmness. Your face will look hydrated and plump the morning after.

Missha wasn’t specific about what kind of skin damage their mask can repair but it doesn’t do much for hyperpigmentation and acne scars.

Pros

• You only need a small amount of product so a little goes a long way
• Value-for-money

Cons

• Fragranced
• Some women might find snail slime too disgusting to apply on their face
• Some women have found this sleep mask too slimy for their taste
• Can cause breakouts if you have sensitive skin

Who is the Missha Super Aqua Cell Renew Snail Sleeping Mask recommended for?

Women with normal, oily or combination skin who have no issues with snail slime on their face.

Who is the mask not recommended for?

Women with dry or sensitive skin.

Elemis Peptide⁴ Plumping Pillow Facial

What is the Elemis Peptide⁴ Plumping Pillow Facial?

This is a cooling light-weight gel sleep mask that comes in a 50 ml pot.

How to use the Elemis Peptide⁴ Plumping Pillow Facial?

After cleansing and moisturizing your face, apply a pea-sized amount in upwards strokes to your face as the last step in your evening skin care routine.

What does the Elemis Peptide⁴ Plumping Pillow Facial claim?

Elemis claims this mask creates a bio-mimetic veil (imitates your natural skin barrier) that locks in moisture and seals in skin care product actives. This gives you hydrated, radiant and smooth skin the morning after.

Power anti-aging ingredients in the Elemis Peptide⁴ Plumping Pillow Facial

Peptide⁴ is a small protein molecule. In general, peptides are thought to contain anti-oxidants to help calm and soothe skin, reduce inflammation and increase collagen production. There is no strong evidence that topical peptides are effective.

Star Arvensis™ is supposedly one of the richest natural vegetable sources of omega-3 fatty acid which reinforces your skin’s natural hydration barrier. Elemis is the first (and only) to market. I’m unable to find evidence that Star Arvensis™ is effective either.

Does the Elemis Peptide⁴ Plumping Pillow Facial live up to its promises?

Yes, your skin will feel soft and plump the morning after and look ‘brighter’. Some women even find that their dark under-eye circles disappear! Due to its hydrating effect, there is also a reduction in fine lines seen.

Pros

• Luxurious-looking packaging
• Light-weight gel texture doesn’t feel heavy on skin

Cons

• Fragranced
• Need to use with moisturizer underneath, otherwise might have dry skin the morning after

Who is the Elemis Peptide⁴ Plumping Pillow Facial recommended for?

Women with oily or combination skin.

Who is the mask not recommended for?

Women with sensitive skin due to its use of fragrance and essential oils.

Laneige Water Sleeping Mask

What is the Laneige Water Sleeping Mask?

This overnight mask has a gel-like texture and comes in a beautiful 70 ml jar.

How to use the Laneige Water Sleeping Mask?

After cleansing and moisturizing, apply the mask evenly across your face as the last step in your evening skin care routine. Leave on overnight and rinse off in the morning. Laneige recommends using this mask once or twice a week.

What does the Laneige Water Sleeping Mask claim?

Laneige claims this overnight mask ‘recharges’ dehydrated skin overnight to give you radiant, soft, glowing skin the morning after.

Power anti-aging ingredients in the Laneige Water Sleeping Mask

Laneige claims quite a few trademarked ingredients in this sleep mask.

Sleep-Tox™ contains apricot and evening primrose extract to help calm skin from damage and external stressors. Apricot extract helps heal damaged skin, reduces wrinkles and maintains skin elasticity. It has proven anti-oxidant activity. Evening primrose extract has proven moisturizing, lightening and anti-inflammatory properties.

Hydro ionized mineral water is formulated with ionized zinc, manganese, magnesium, sodium, calcium and potassium to provide natural moistuzing factors (NMF) for long-lasting hydration.

Moisture Wrap™ is another trademarked ingredient containing beta-glucan to form an 8-hour time-release moisturizing layer over skin.

Sleep-scent™ contains a combination of essential oils like orange flower, rose, and sandalwood to rest and relax your skin.

Does the Laneige Water Sleeping Mask live up to its promises?

For all its trademarked ingredients, it better! And for the most part, it does. Your skin will feel soft and plump the morning after 🙂

Pros

• Does not clog pores
• Good anti-aging preventative treatment

Cons

• Fragranced

Who is the Laneige Water Sleeping Mask recommended for?

Younger women as anti-aging preventative treatment. Women with oily or combination skin.

Who is the mask not recommended for?

Older women with wrinkles and fine lines (unless you want to use the mask for its hydrating and relaxing properties).

Amorepacific Moisture Bound Sleeping Recovery Masque

What is the Amorepacific Moisture Bound Sleeping Recovery Masque?

This is a gentle light-weight gel overnight mask that comes in an expensive-looking 100 ml (3.38 oz. fl.) white tube.

Fun fact: Laneige and Amorepacific both belong to the same company.

How to use the Amorepacific Moisture Bound Sleeping Recovery Masque?

After cleansing, apply evenly over face in place of your usual moisturizer. Let mask set for five minutes before sleeping.

What does the Amorepacific Moisture Bound Sleeping Recovery Masque claim?

Amorepacific claims that this overnight mask can give you long-lasting hydration, reduces fine lines and improves skin radiance.

Power anti-aging ingredients in the Amorepacific Moisture Bound Sleeping Recovery Masque

5-hydra complex is a botanical blend of lotus, bamboo leaf extract, cactus fruit, green tea, wild soybean and water lily that improves hydration and reduces free radical damage.

Instead of water, the mask uses bamboo sap. It’s not as common to see this ingredient in skin care products but it holds a lot of promise.

Does the Amorepacific Moisture Bound Sleeping Recovery Masque live up to its promises?

Yes. Most women have found that they have a glowing and hydrated complexion the morning after. Over repeated use, your skin will look younger (due to good hydration) with a reduction in the appearance of fine lines.

Pros

• Does not clog pores
• Easily absorbed and leaves no residue
• Gel-like texture has a cooling effect

Cons

• Fragranced

Who is the Amorepacific Moisture Bound Sleeping Recovery Masque recommended for?

Anyone really, but especially women with oily or combination skin.

Who is the mask not recommended for?

Women with rosacea or eczema and those with sensitive skin.

Best anti-aging sleep mask for damaged skin

Comfort Zone Renight Mask

What is the Comfort Zone Renight Mask?

This light-weight sleep mask comes in a 60 ml (2.03 fl. oz tube).

How to use the Comfort Zone Renight Mask?

After cleansing, apply all over your face. Let the mask absorb for 15-20 minutes then remove residue with a face tissue or warm damp face towel.

What does the Comfort Zone Renight Mask claim?

Comfort Zone guarantees this overnight mask can nourish and hydrate your skin for 8 hours. They also claim the mask repairs sun damage and bad effects of harsh and cold climates.

Power anti-wrinkle ingredients in the Comfort Zone Renight Mask

Organic goji berry oil supposedly helps to reduce wrinkles and protect against environmental damage. When eaten, goji berries have proven health benefits including anti-aging benefits. but with topical application, the evidence is less solid.

Hydrolyzed tomato extract contains lycopene to prevent collagen deterioration. Again, dietary lycopene and carotenoids have proven health benefits but there is lack of evidence for its topical application.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a super popular humectant. However, as discussed before, the large HA molecules are not absorbed into deeper layers of your skin and HA only works superficially.

Does the Comfort Zone Renight Mask live up to its promises?

Despite weak evidence for its power ingredients, yes. The hydration effects of this mask is long-lasting. Over repeated use, it evens out your skin tone.

Pros

• Light-weight formula that is easily absorbed
• 91% natural origin ingredients
• Non-pore clogging

Cons

• The formula can be too light-weight for some

Who is the Comfort Zone Renight Mask recommended for?

Women with dry, damaged skin from UV rays or harsh climates.

Who is the mask not recommended for?

Most women have found this sleep mask gentle enough to use.

Best anti-aging sleep masks for sensitive skin

Nourish London Probiotic Multi-mineral Repair Mask

What is the Nourish London Probiotic Multi-mineral Repair Mask?

This creamy sleep mask comes in a 30 ml pump bottle. Each full pump will give you 5 ml of product which is recommended for one use so 30 ml technically only gives you 6 uses.

How to use the Nourish London Probiotic Multi-mineral Repair Mask?

After cleansing, massage the sleep mask into your skin and let it absorb for 5 minutes. Wipe away the excess with a warm cloth. This mask can be washed off after 5 minutes or better yet, left on overnight.

What does the Nourish London Probiotic Multi-mineral Repair Mask claim?

Nourish London claims this sleep mask repairs skin by boosting collagen production. It also reduces the appearance of wrinkles and increases skin elasticity.

Power anti-aging ingredients in the Nourish London Probiotic Multi-mineral Repair Mask

This mask contains probiotic fermented minerals like copper, iron, silica and zinc. When fermented, these minerals are transformed into bio-active ingredients and are more readily recognized and accepted by skin cells.

Magnesium is a simple but popular ingredient in skin care for its anti-inflammatory effects. It calms skin from the irritating effects of pollution and rebalances sebum production for oily skin.

Does the Nourish London Probiotic Multi-mineral Repair Mask live up to its promises?

In general, yes. Your skin will feel soft, hydrated and smooth. It also calms flares of rosacea and acne. Many women have also found an obvious difference in the appearance of fine lines.

Pros

• 81% organic and vegan ingredients
• Winner of best facial mask in the Janey Loves 2018 Platinum Awards
• Pleasant botanical scent of lavender and damask rose
• It can go a long way if used sparingly

Cons

• The pump bottle dispenses more than you need for each use and there is also wastage at the end
• Expensive for such a small amount of product

Who is the Nourish London Probiotic Multi-mineral Repair Mask recommended for?

Women with mature, damaged skin and women with rosacea or acne

Who is the mask not recommended for?

Women on a budget

Green People Age Defy+ by Cha Vohtz Hydra Glow Sleep Mask

What is the Green People Age Defy+ by Cha Vohtz Hydra Glow Sleep Mask?

This sleep mask comes in a 50 ml pot and is easily absorbed.

How to use the Green People Age Defy+ by Cha Vohtz Hydra Glow Sleep Mask?

After cleansing, apply generously and massage into face. You can use this mask 2-3 times a week.

What does the Green People Age Defy+ by Cha Vohtz Hydra Glow Sleep Mask claim?

Green People claims this mask stimulates collagen production for a firmer and rejuvenated complexion. It can also improve skin elasticity, reduce fine lines, and enhance your skin tone. That’s a lot of claims.

Power anti-aging ingredients in the Green People Age Defy+ by Cha Vohtz Hydra Glow Sleep Mask

Green macoalgae has anti-oxidant, anti-aging and anti-inflammatory activities. There is some evidence for its effectiveness but more robust evidence is needed.

Squalene reduces free radical oxidative damage to skin. There is evidence that topically applied squalene is effectively absorbed and this ingredient shows a lot of promise.

Does the Green People Age Defy+ by Cha Vohtz Hydra Glow Sleep Mask live up to its promises?

Yes to an extent. Most women felt their skin was softer and plumper the morning after. With repeated use, many also felt that the mask visibly smoothed out their fine lines and calmed their sensitive skin.

Pros

• Quick absorption
• Non-greasy formula
• A little goes a long way
• 91% organic ingredients, endorsed by The Vegan Society and PETA
• 10% of profits are donated to charity

 Cons

• What a long, unnecessary name! Don’t you think?
• Too rich for oily skin

Who is the Green People Age Defy+ by Cha Vohtz Hydra Glow Sleep Mask recommended for?

Women with mature and sensitive skin.

Who is the mask not recommended for?

Women with oily or combination skin.

Best anti-aging sleep masks for hyperpigmentation

St Botanica Antioxidant Boost Night Mask

What is the St Botanica Antioxidant Boost Night Mask?

This is an easily absorbed gel-like overnight face mask that comes in a 50g pink jar.

How to use the St Botanica Antioxidant Boost Night Mask?

After cleansing and toning your face, take a small dollop of gel and apply it to your face in place of moisturizer. Leave it overnight and rinse off with water in the morning. You can use this face mask 2 to 3 times a week.

What does the St Botanica Antioxidant Boost Night Mask claim?

St Botanica claims this overnight mask improves your skin texture and tone the morning after. It also refreshes dull skin and lightens dark spots and hyperpigmentation.

Power anti-aging ingredients in the St Botanica Antioxidant Boost Night Mask

Retinols increase collagen production in the skin and reduces the appearance of wrinkles but can irritate sensitive skin.

Vitamin C is a potent anti-oxidant that protects against photo-aging but tends to be photo-sensitive and unstable.

Vitamin E has been used in skin care for more than 50 years and is supposed to help keep the skin soft and moisturized. However, the benefits of topically-applied vitamin E is still unclear.

The mask also contains a host of other ingredients like green tea, chamomile, calendula oil and, aloe vera and cucumber extract.

Does the St Botanica Antioxidant Boost Night Mask live up to its promises?

Yes, your skin will definitely look and feel hydrated and refreshed the morning after. With repeated use, you’ll also find it helps with hyperpigmentation.

Pros

• St Botanica is part of PETA’s Beauty without Bunnies program so you know no animals were harmed in the production of this mask

Cons

• If you have dry skin, it might not be hydrating enough
• Retinol and Vitamin C can irritate sensitive skin

Who is the St Botanica Antioxidant Boost Night Mask recommended for?

Women with oily or combination skin and women who have hyperpigmentation.

Who is the mask not recommended for?

Women with dry skin or sensitive skin.

Olay Luminous Overnight Mask

What is the Olay Luminous Overnight Mask?

This gel-like mask comes in a large 130 ml (4.5 fl. oz.) heavy glass jar.

How to use the Olay Luminous Overnight Mask?

After cleansing your face, apply by smoothing evenly over the entire face. Allow the mask to absorb before sleep.

What does the Olay Luminous Overnight Mask claim?

Olay claims you will wake up to hydrated, radiant (pearlescent) skin. They also claim this mask fights early signs of aging and evens out skin tone over time.

Power anti-aging ingredients in the Olay Luminous Overnight Mask

Vitamin B3 is proven to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as well as improve hyperpigmentation.

Mulberry extract has some evidence for skin lightening properties.

Does the Olay Luminous Overnight Mask live up to its promises?

Yes, you do have dewy and plump skin the morning after. Over time, there is also some lightening of hyperpigmentation.

Pros

• Easily absorbed
• Good value-for-money

Cons

• Due to its jar packaging, light and air-sensitive ingredients will degrade with repeated use

Who is the Olay Luminous Overnight Mask recommended for?

Women with hyperpigmentation and younger women as preventative anti-aging treatment.

Who is the mask not recommended for?

Women with established signs of aging.

Best anti-aging sleep mask with retinol

Glow Recipe Avocado Melt Retinol Sleeping Face Mask

What is the Glow Recipe Avocado Melt Retinol Sleeping Face Mask?

Glow Recipe is a cult Korean skincare brand. This creamy mask comes in a 30 ml glass jar with a spatula.

How to use the Glow Recipe Avocado Melt Retinol Sleeping Face Mask?

After cleansing your face, use the spatula to scoop a 50 cent size amount of the product out. Gently pat the mask into your skin and leave on overnight. Glow Recipe says you can use this mask every night but unless you have very dry skin, I wouldn’t recommend nightly use due to possible issues with clogged pores.

What does the Glow Recipe Avocado Melt Retinol Sleeping Face Mask claim?

Glow Recipe claims this mask moisturizes and firms dry and dull skin.

Power anti-aging ingredients in the Glow Recipe Avocado Melt Retinol Sleeping Face Mask

Avocado has oleic and linoleic acid to restore moisture and collagen in the skin. There is good evidence that topically-applied avocado oil increases collagen synthesis, decreases inflammation and increases wound repair.

Encapsulated retinol causes retinol to be released in smaller amounts at a time. It is gentler than traditional retinol treatments. Retinoids are well-known for its anti-aging properties but can be irritating to sensitive skin. However, is encapsulated retinol the answer to this dilemma? This article goes into more detail about the process of encapsulation and issues related to encapsulated retinol.

Polyhydroxy acids (PHA) gently exfoliates your skin while you sleep. This study proves PHA is gentler than AHA but is just as effective.

Matcha contains the anti-oxidant EGCG that nourishes and soothes skin. Studies show topical EGCG  significantly reduces UV radiation-induced oxidation and can potentially even prevent skin cancer.

Does the Glow Recipe Avocado Melt Retinol Sleeping Face Mask live up to its promises?

For all its power ingredients, Glow Recipe doesn’t claim much. And yes, the mask lives up very well to its promise. Your face will feel soft and plump the next day and there is an obvious improvement in skin dryness.

Pros

• Free from parabens and toxins
• Minimal fragrance
• Luxurious creamy texture

Cons

• The ingredients separate at rest so you will need to mix the formula before use to return it to its creamy whipped texture
• Can clog pores if you have oily skin
• Need to use a good amount of product as the cream doesn’t spread very far
• Retinol can sometimes irritate skin, especially if your skin is retinol-naïve. Do not leave overnight immediately if you’re not used to retinol. Ease into it.
• Due to its richness, it doesn’t absorb into the skin very well

Who is the Glow Recipe Avocado Melt Retinol Sleeping Face Mask recommended for?

Women with dry or normal skin and women who have used retinol before.

Who is the mask not recommended for?

Women with oily or combination skin.

Best anti-aging sleep masks with Vitamin C

Youth To The People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Mask

What is the Youth To The People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Mask?

This mask has a balmy texture and comes in a 59 ml jar with a spatula.

How to use the YTTP Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Mask?

After cleansing your face, apply an even layer and massage into your skin. Leave on overnight. For best results, use every night.

What does the YTTP Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Mask claim?

YTTP claims that this mask hydrates, plumps and brightens your skin.

Power anti-aging ingredients in the Youth To The People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Mask

THD ascorbate is Vitamin C in a stable form. It is early days yet for this ingredient and there is only a small study showing measurable anti-aging results.

The mask also contains a blend of superberries; maqui, acai, prickly pear and goji berries.

Does the Youth To The People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Mask live up to its promises?

Yes, you will have super soft and hydrated skin the morning after.

Pros

• Its fragrance is provided naturally by the yuzu fruit
• A little goes a long way
• 100% vegan ingredients
• Allure Best of Beauty Award Winner

Cons

• Very thick consistency
• Can clog pores and cause acne breakouts

Who is the Youth To The People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Mask recommended for?

Women with dry mature skin.

Who is the mask not recommended for?

Women with oily or combination skin.

Skin Physics Vitamin C Brightening Sleep Mask

What is the Skin Physics Vitamin C Brightening Sleep Mask?

This mask comes in a cool 50 ml sphere jar.

How to use the Skin Physics Vitamin C Brightening Sleep Mask?

After cleansing and patting dry your face, apply a thick even layer across your face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Massage into your skin until the spheres vanish. Leave on overnight and rinse off in the morning.

What does the Skin Physics Vitamin C Brightening Sleep Mask claim?

Skin Physics claims this mask improves skin tone and brightens dull skin.

Power anti-aging ingredients in the Skin Physics Vitamin C Brightening Sleep Mask

Native Australian Kakadu Plum is heralded as the world’s richest source of natural Vitamin C. There is evidence this fruit has many anti-oxidant and collagen-stimulating properties but there is lack of strong evidence for its benefits when applied topically.

Activated pomegranate fruit enzymes have been shown to decrease skin damage from UV radiation and improve wound healing in small studies.

The mask also contains Vitamin C, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, provitamin B5 and a mineral blend of copper, zinc and magnesium.

Does the Skin Physics Vitamin C Brightening Sleep Mask live up to its promises?

Yes it does. Your skin will be glowing and radiant in the morning. As added bonus, even though Skin Physics never claimed this, some women also found a reduction in fine lines.

Pros

• A little goes a long way
• Paraben free

Cons

• Can sometimes cause mild stinging due to its Vitamin C content

Who is the Skin Physics Vitamin C Brightening Sleep Mask recommended for?

Women with dry skin.

Who is the mask not recommended for?

Most women with all skin types have found this mask gentle enough to use.

Best drug store anti-aging sleep mask

Nivea Q10 Power Sleeping Melt-in Mask

What is the Nivea Q10 Power Sleeping Melt-in Mask?

This creamy face mask comes in a 50 ml pot. Nivea claims the pot lasts 12 applications but it actually lasts much longer as you don’t need much for each use.

How to use the Nivea Q10 Power Sleeping Melt-in Mask?

After cleansing, apply a thick layer on your face, neck and décolletage. Let it sink for 5-10 minutes then give yourself a gentle face massage. Wipe the excess away with a cotton pad. The mask can be used 2-3 times a week.

What does the Nivea Q10 Power Sleeping Melt-in Mask claim?

Nivea claims this mask gives you smoother, firmer more radiant skin for up to 24 hours.

Power anti-aging ingredients in the Nivea Q10 Power Sleeping Melt-in Mask

CoQ10 helps prevent fine lines and wrinkles by supporting the production of collagen and protecting your skin against free radicals. Does it work in skin care? According to this study, yes.

Creatine increases cell turnover and improves skin elasticity. I have no idea why this study was done in males instead of females but it proved topically applied creatine absorbed into the dermis (deeper layer of your skin) and using it for 6 weeks significantly reduced sagging cheeks, crows feet and eye wrinkles! Give me some of that magic now!

Does the Nivea Q10 Power Sleeping Melt-in Mask live up to its promises?

Yes, it does. Your skin will feel smoother and softer the morning after. Most women found the hydration effects lasted throughout the day. Over time, many women have also found it improved the condition of their skin and reduced the appearance of their fine lines.

Added bonus: It works wonders on ‘crepey’ necks!

Pros

• Easily absorbed with no obvious residue
• A little goes a long way
• Does not leave marks on pillow
• Value-for-money

Cons

• Fragranced
• In warm humid weather, the creamy texture can feel heavy and greasy. Use sparingly.
• Your face can feel greasy the morning after if you have oily skin

Who is the Nivea Q10 Power Sleeping Melt-in Mask recommended for?

Women with dry or dehydrated skin.

Who is the mask not recommended for?

Women with oily skin – use sparingly.

Best luxurious anti-aging sleep mask

Giorgio Armani Crema Nera Extrema Supreme Recovery Balm

What is the Giorgio Armani Crema Nera Extrema Supreme Recovery Balm?

Even the name of this sleep mask oozes luxury! This purple balm-like mask comes in a 50 ml jar.

How to use the Giorgio Armani Crema Nera Extrema Supreme Recovery Balm?

After cleansing your face, use as the last step in your evening skin care routine in place of your usual moisturizer. Massage all over your face. You can use this mask 2-3 times a week.

What does the Giorgio Armani Crema Nera Extrema Supreme Recovery Balm claim?

Giorgio Armani claims that this is the ultimate night treatment for a transformed skin texture the morning after. The mask revitalizes your skin and makes it appear more refreshed, plumper and well-rested. It also visibly reduces fine lines and wrinkles.

Power anti-aging ingredients in the Giorgio Armani Crema Nera Extrema Supreme Recovery Balm

Reviscentalis Complex is an exclusive Giorgio Armani trademarked ingredient. It is meant to replicate your skin’s self-healing innate mechanism to revive your skin via anti-oxidation, detoxification and reparation.

Does the Giorgio Armani Crema Nera Extrema Supreme Recovery Balm live up to its promises?

Your skin will definitely look more hydrated, plump and youthful the morning after. Some women also found it healed their old blemishes and others found it minimizes the appearance of their fine lines and wrinkles.

Pros

• It is the most luxurious anti-aging face mask out there if you want to give yourself a special treat

Cons

• Too expensive for routine use

Who is the Giorgio Armani Crema Nera Extrema Supreme Recovery Balm recommended for?

Anyone with some extra cash to spare for a special treat. If you can afford it, it’s supposed to be the best anti-aging mask out there.

Who is the mask not recommended for?

Most women who want to incorporate a sleep mask into their nightly routine. I can’t justify spending so much on a mask when there are other brands around that work pretty well.

To wrap up

There you go, the best anti-aging sleep masks on the market today. All of these face masks work by hydrating your skin and as a results improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Most live up to their claims because they don’t promise to permanently reverse signs of aging (which is not possible).

Of all these masks, I recommend the Nivea Q10 Power Sleeping Melt-in Mask. For the price, you really can’t go wrong with its proven anti-aging ingredients.

My other favourite is the Amorepacific Moisture Bound Sleeping Recovery Masque. Its use of bamboo sap instead of water significantly prolongs the hydration effects.

Having well-moisturized skin increases your self-confidence and is a vital part of living a sensual life. Start here if are feeling blah and you want to feel alive again.

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