Such is the story of the current V-mask beauty trend originating from Korea. Beauty masks of all forms are filling retailer shelves, from drugstores to high-end beauty boutiques. Market-wise, they are all selling well. For this story we are referring to the types of masks that are applied to the face in sheet form, rather than applying a lotion-like substance to the face and rinsing it off after a specified amount of time. From that group in particular, we are looking at masks that offer face-slimming benefits.
While being touted as “new” and “revolutionary,” the V-mask concept actually combines the old Hollywood glamour technique of using a chinstrap with the best in skin-lifting, smoothing, and firming formulations applied to the skin for several hours at a time and several times weekly to achieve ultimate face-slimming results. Some masks are being marketed as an alternative to painful or expensive medical procedures. They work by stimulating the reduction of fat deposits and fine lines along the application area. However, you will need to use the product on a regular basis to maintain those results as its effects are temporary.
Up we go!
The lifting is accomplished by first attaching the top part of the stretchy fiber-like material, somewhat similar to foam packing sheets, cut in the shape of the lower portion of the face fitted with a mouth-sized hole to the section of the face just under the nose. Loops on each side of the fabric mask attach at the ears. The bottom section, designed to lift sagging double chin skin is then attached and pulled up by loops to the ears, as well.
Upon application, you immediately feel a lovely, cooling sensation that perks you up as the mask’s unique formula of ingredients, which include: water, glycerin, tartaric acid, propylene glycol, collagen amino acids, and centella asiatica—a medicinal herb found in the Asian wetlands, do their thing to produce a smooth, clear face line, reduce fine lines and increase skin’s firmness and elasticity. It even addresses the nasolabial folds, or creases that appear below either side of the nose reaching the mouth. The mask also promises a unique moisturizing effect that repairs and stimulates cell regeneration, leaving your skin feeling more hydrated and replenished.
Reviews online of these products are numerous and are primarily positive, with many users willing to continue to purchase and use regularly. Negative reviews were mostly about the length of time they need to be applied and some soreness around the ears after use.
We’ve compiled a comprehensive pros and cons list so you can assess for yourself. Because let’s face it, taking off any number of years is pretty much a pro in our book!
Pros
- Feels cool upon application
- Does not irritate skin
- Most online reviews have only positive things to say about the product
- Most reviewers said they did see improvement of the jaw line
- Most reviewers said they did see improvement of their double chin
- It can be worn while sleeping because only the inner portion of the mask is wet to the touch
- Affordable. You can purchase 5 masks to a pack for $24.99 on Amazon Prime
- No heavy perfume scent
Cons
- Can be irritating as it pulls on ears
- Some masks require a minimum of 6 hours wearing time a day for maximum effect
- If you cannot wear it at night, you will need to work your day around wearing it
- You can eat/drink with it on, but will want to use care not to soil it
