Different Types of Facial Masks for Glowing Skin: How to Choose the Right One for You

A Beauty Guide: Benefits of Sheet, Clay, Peel-Off, Gel, Overnight, DIY and Enzyme Skincare Masks

by: Linda Robison / Facial Fitness Specialist

With so many facial masks out there—sheet, clay, gel, peel-off, and more—it’s easy to wonder which one actually helps your skin.

As a certified facial fitness specialist, I’ve tried nearly every type to see what really makes a difference for mature, changing skin. Some masks hydrate, others detoxify, and a few can even help support firmness and elasticity.

This guide breaks down the different types of facial masks, how they work, and which ones fit best in a natural skin-tightening routine.

You’ll also find a few DIY options at the end for when you want to mix up something quick at home.

Quick look: Face mask cheat sheet

Not sure which mask is right for your skin?

Here’s a quick chart showing what each type does and who it’s best for—then scroll down for detailed tips on how and when to use them.

ABZ Tip: For combination skin, try multi-masking—use a clay mask on oily areas (like the T-zone) and a hydrating mask on dry spots like cheeks.

Now that you’ve seen a quick overview, let’s look at why face masks are so effective—and how each one helps your skin look firmer, smoother, and more radiant.

Benefits of using a face mask

Facial masks aren’t just a luxury—they’re one of the easiest ways to refresh and nourish your skin.

Top Benefits:

• Boosts Hydration – Sheet and gel masks deeply moisturize and plump.
• Unclogs Pores & Absorbs Oil – Clay and peel-off masks absorb oil and debris.
• Exfoliates Dead Skin Cells – Enzyme and peel-off masks smooth dull skin.
• Brightens & Evens Out Skin Tone – Masks with vitamin C, pearl powder, or fruit enzymes reduce dullness.
• Delivers Powerful Ingredients – Unlike creams, masks stay on longer, allowing deeper penetration.
• Improves Product Absorption: Prepping skin with a mask helps serums and moisturizers work better.

Used regularly, masks keep your complexion balanced and give tired skin an instant boost.

How face masks work

Face masks act as skin boosters. They stay on longer than creams, creating a barrier that locks in ingredients so they penetrate more deeply.

When to use a face mask in your skin care routine

Not sure when or how often to mask? Use this quick-reference chart to plan your weekly routine. 

ABZ Tip: Morning masks hydrate and prep the skin for makeup, while evening masks detoxify and renew. Most masks work best 1–3 times a week, depending on your skin’s needs.

How to use facial masks (a simple 3-step routine)

Here’s what a simple mask routine looks like:

Cleanse, apply your mask, rinse, moisturize, and SPF—easy as that! This quick visual helps you see how every mask fits into your skincare rhythm.

Now that you’ve got the basic routine down, let’s look at what makes each type of mask unique and when to use it.

Top 7 popular types of facial masks

Let's dive into 7 different types of skincare face masks:

• Sheet
• Overnight
• Gel
• Clay
• Peel-off
• DIY At-home
• Enzyme masks

General Application

Here's a routine for 7 common masks, listed from the gentlest to the most intense. Adjust frequency based on your skin's needs and mask type.

1. Sheet

This one-time use, paper mask is pre-soaked in serums to hydrate and brighten. They’re great for a quick moisture boost and a dewy glow.

Important Note: Some sheet masks may contain AHA or BHA. If so, follow the label's usage instructions carefully. These acids exfoliate and increase sun sensitivity, so use with caution to avoid irritation or damage

2. Overnight

Cream-based overnight masks deeply hydrate and repair your complexion while you sleep, helping to improve texture and reduce dryness.  Just be prepared for some sticky pillowcases. Consider placing a towel over your pillows on mask nights!

3. Gel

Light gel cooling masks soothe and hydrate the skin, often used to calm irritation or redness and provide a refreshing boost.

4. Clay

Clay masks come in various colors like green, grey, or brown. These thick, mud-like masks absorb excess oil and draw out impurities, making them perfect for deep cleansing and controlling shine, especially for oily or combination skin.

5. Peel-off

Peel-off masks start as a thick gel that dries and can be peeled or rubbed off. They help remove dead cells and unclog pores. Use them cautiously if you have sensitive skin, as they can be drying.

6. DIY

DIY at-home masks/scrubs let you customize using ingredients like fruits and honey.  Some scrubs also double as masks, offering exfoliation and treatment all-in one. 

ABZ Tip: Gentle exfoliation is a must for glowing, healthy skin—especially after 40!

Sugar-based scrubs offer dual benefits: let the scrub sit for a few minutes to break down dead cells, then scrub gently for extra exfoliation before rinsing. 

Check out these easy sugar scrub and exotic Korean scrub recipes!

7. Enzyme

Enzyme masks come in two types: DIY at-home masks, which can vary in strength and may cause irritation if not used carefully, and store-bought, which are formulated for consistent results.

Both types use natural enzymes to gently exfoliate and brighten the skin. But be careful not to over-exfoliate.

Use once a week after cleansing and before applying organic or ceramide rich moisturizers and treatments.

If you love natural ingredients, you’ll also enjoy trying these homemade mask variations....

Bonus: DIY Masks you'll want to try!

These glow-boosting recipes are easy to make and backed by time-tested ingredients. Whether you’re targeting breakouts, dullness, or dryness—these are my go-to homemade face masks from my Homemade Skincare Recipes & Beauty Hacks collection:

•  Pearl Powder Mask – Boosts glow and firmness. I mix it with honey or yogurt when my skin looks dull.
• Turmeric Scrub-Mask – A multitasker that brightens and hydrates.
• Oily Skin Mask – Balances oil and calms inflammation with gentle natural ingredients.

You’ll find the full recipes and variations in my Homemade Skincare Recipes guide.

How to choose

If your skin’s pretty balanced, you can use a variety of masks and rotate them through the week. But if you deal with dryness, oiliness, or sensitivity, it’s best to pick masks that target those specific concerns.

Building a face mask routine that fits your skin helps you get better results—whether that’s extra hydration, calming redness, or keeping oil under control.

ABZ Tip: Not sure if you’re making a masking mistake? Check out my list of common face mask mistakes to avoid.

Match your mask to your skin type

Match your mask to your skin type:

• Oily, clogged pores, or acne-prone: Clay or charcoal masks absorb oil and unclog pores. Try this oil-absorbing homemade mask.
• Dry, aging, or sensitive: Sheet, overnight, or honey-based masks provide moisture without irritation.
• Combination: Try multi-masking—use clay on your T-zone and a cream mask on drier areas.
• Brightening: Look for vitamin C, niacinamide, pearl powder, or fruit enzymes like papaya.
• Signs of aging: Seek ingredients like AHA, retinol, ceramides, or peptides.
• Redness or inflammation: Gel and sheet masks with aloe or green tea help calm the skin.

Adjusting your routine

Don’t be afraid to mix it up. Your skin’s needs change with seasons, stress, or hormones—so stay flexible and adjust your masking choices accordingly.

Finding the right combination may take a little trial and error. Start with weekly use and see how your skin responds. With patience, you’ll discover what works best for you.

ABZ Tip: Always patch-test new products, especially if your skin tends to be sensitive.

Takeaway:

Face masks are one of the easiest ways to refresh and nourish your skin. From the instant hydration of sheet masks to the deep cleansing power of clay, each one offers unique benefits.

Now that you know what each type does, which one will you try first? Whether you’re after glow, moisture, or a little lift, the right mask can transform your skincare routine.

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