15 Best Hydrating Face Masks to Soothe Dull And Dehydrated Skin

Written by Anoushka Sinha, Skincare Coach & Writer
Updated on Mar 22, 2024
Best Hydrating Face Mask
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Today, when pollutants, dust, dirt, and grime have become a common part of our lives, it is vital to take extra care of the skin. One of the go-to solutions to maintain the skin’s peak health amidst the hustle and bustle is by pampering it with the best hydrating face masks. What makes them essential skin care products is their comprehensive list of power-packed key ingredients, organic formulas, and essential nutrients that leave your skin thoroughly rejuvenated. Additionally, their hydrating abilities help restore the moisture balance and soothe dry, flaky, and dull skin. 

Based on our extensive research, incorporating a hydrating face mask into your weekly skincare routine is an excellent way to take care of your skin, especially when the weather and unpredictable climate can hurt your skin's texture and quality. A few dermatologists and skincare experts also believe that the mask offers an instant improvement in the overall look and feel of the skin. 

To help you pick the best of the best masks for your skin, we have varied options for you, right from cream, and gel-based textures, to sheet masks. Be it for everyday or weekly usage, they are worth every penny! Scroll down and check them out!

15 Best Hydrating Face Masks

By incorporating the Bright And Radiant Whipped Mask from Bliss, you will be able to achieve highly refreshed and luminous skin. Formulated with an impressive composition of botanical goodies, humectants, and antioxidants, this hydrating gel mask delivers a surge of moisture to your skin. Addedly, it corrects uneven skin tone while reducing dullness to make you swoon over your very own lit-from-within glow. The best part — its clean, citrusy, and herbaceous scent hooks your senses and uplifts your mood in a jiffy. 

Key Ingredients: Marshmallow root extract, vitamin C, and licorice root extract

Skin Types: All

Usage: Twice or thrice per week

Quantity: 1.7 oz.

Pros
  • Non-greasy texture
  • Budget-friendly
  • Paraben-free
  • Pleasant tingling sensation
  • Absorbs fast
  • Delectable, mousse-like consistency
  • Soothes nail cuticles
Cons
  • Infused vitamin C may not suit everyone

Quick Tip:

Apply a thick layer of the mask on clean and dry skin. Avoid the eye area. Leave it for 10 to 15 minutes and then rinse thoroughly.

  • Editor’s Pick

    Laneige Water Sleeping Mask

    Laneige Water Sleeping Mask
  • By splurging on Laneige’s Water Sleeping Mask, you can rejuvenate your skin and smoothen its texture and feel. We bet you will love the hydrating and skin-softening effects this product gets from humectants such as trehalose and hyaluronic acid. While you sleep, this mask works on night duty to strengthen your skin's moisture barrier to impart a clearer, more luminous complexion the next morning. We also glanced through the reviews and feedback section on Amazon and here is what a satisfied user has to say — “Packed with moisture, this skin hydrating mask effectively replenishes skin's moisture levels, leaving my skin plump and dewy by the morning.”

    Key Ingredients: Probiotic-derived complex, squalene, trehalose, hyaluronic acid, and evening primrose

    Skin Types: Normal, dry, combination, oily

    Usage: Once or twice a week

    Quantity: 0.71 oz.

    Pros
    • Non-greasy
    • Lightweight
    • Quick-absorbent
    • Reduces inflammations
    • Pleasant fragrance
    Cons
    • Unsatisfactory packaging
  • Best for Dry Skin

    Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating 100% Hydrogel Mask

    Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating 100% Hydrogel Mask
  • Moving onto the next — Neutrogena’s Hydrogel Mask is what you need to add to your routine to quench the thirst of your parched skin if you only have 15 minutes to spare. The product is a pack of 12 hydrating sheet masks drenched in hyaluronic acid giving you a chance to indulge in a fully rejuvenating at-home skincare routine. A lot of skincare junkies and experts have labeled it as the best face mask for dry skin for its moisture-sealing ability that paves the way to attain supple and plump skin. We recommend using this product on days when you’re traveling a lot or are heading to a beach/tropical region for your next getaway.

    Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid 

    Skin Types: All

    Usage: 15 to 30 minutes, as needed 

    Quantity: 1 oz.

    Pros
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Gentle
    • Oil-free
    • Recommended by dermatologists
    • Unscented
    • Alcohol-free
    • Cooling sensation
    • Holds more essence than regular sheets
    Cons
    • Slides down if not applied correctly
  • Best for Everyday Use

    Doppeltree Renew Overnight Mask

    Doppeltree Renew Overnight Mask
  • To wake up to renewed skin, you need to get your hands on Doppeltree’s Overnight Mask which possesses a featherlight formula. This hydrating facial mask gets absorbed really quickly helping the skin to seal all the valuable nutrients for glowing and replenished skin. Its protective formula creates a film on your skin, and as long as you have it on, it prevents impurities from clogging your pores. What’s more? With its impressive cooling sensation and antioxidant prowess, the mask also acts as an impressive aftercare solution for mild sunburns or chapped skin. 

    Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, green tea, and hyaluronic acid

    Skin Types: All

    Usage: Everyday 

    Quantity: 4 fl. oz.

    Pros
    • Phthalates-free
    • Free from mineral oil
    • Gel-like texture
    • Unscented
    • Non-sticky
    • Lean formula
    • Non-greasy
    Cons
    • Underwhelming and short-lasted results

    Quick Tip:

    Apply the gel on your face and neck and massage a generous layer. Leave it overnight and then rinse off in the morning for desired and quick results.

  • Most Versatile

    e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Sleeping Mask

    e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Sleeping Mask
  • e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Sleeping Mask is yet another failproof skincare product for utmost skin nourishment. What makes it stand out from the crowd? This hydrating mask for the face basically has a dual use — you can use it as a rinse-off product or as an overnight mask, and it works wonders in both cases. Speaking of its texture, it is rich, creamy, water-drenched, and easy to apply. By helping the skin to lock in sufficient moisture and smoothen its texture, it fulfills your dream of attaining rejuvenated and plump skin. 

    Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, peptides, and ceramides 

    Skin Types: Normal, dry, combination, and oily skin

    Usage: Twice or thrice a week

    Quantity: 2.7 fl. oz.

    Pros
    • Paraben-free
    • Non-toxic
    • Mature skin benefits
    • Lightweight formula
    • Improves skin texture
    • Vegan and cruelty-free
    • Reasonable
    Cons
    • Overwhelming scent
  • Best Texture

    Peter Thomas Roth Cucumber Gel Mask

    Peter Thomas Roth Cucumber Gel Mask
  • While on our quest to find an extra hydrating face mask, we bumped into Peter Thomas Roth’s Cucumber Gel Mask. Having tried it out, we were stunned looking at its potent composition of natural ingredients like fruit extracts that come together to soothe and hydrate your skin. The gel-like texture glides on your skin seamlessly and makes you feel utterly refreshed. What’s impressive? For more cooling and relaxing skin treatment, you can refrigerate the mask, too! We recommend using this gel mask as a hydration therapy after exfoliating the skin with the Peter Thomas Roth FIRMx Peeling Gel, to get skin-brightening results!

    Key Ingredients: Cucumber, papaya, chamomile, pineapple, sugar maple, sugarcane, orange, lemon, bilberry, and aloe vera. 

    Skin Types: All

    Usage: 2 to 3 times a week or daily 

    Quantity: 5 fl. oz.

    Pros
    • Alcohol-free
    • Easy to rinse
    • Good quantity
    • Rich in antioxidants
    • Invigorating formula
    • Little goes a long way
    • Calms down irritated skin
    Cons
    • Overpriced
    • Could’ve been dye-free
  • Best for Skin Brightening

    Image Skincare, Vital C Hydrating Enzyme Masque

    Image Skincare, Vital C Hydrating Enzyme Masque
  • With Image Skincare’s Hydrating Enzyme Masque at your disposal, you can effortlessly enhance your skin’s natural radiance. Packed with a punch of skin-benefitting properties and natural enzyme exfoliants, this hydrating skin mask boosts radiance and brightens dull skin dramatically. 

    Wish to know how this mask works? A happy user willingly shares her personal experience with us. She says, “I have used Image Mask often and found that it helps brighten my skin tone for a healthier appearance. I usually put a thin layer on after I have washed my face before bed. I sleep with the mask on and in the morning my skin is smooth and soft.” We recommend using this mask a night before a special occasion to clarify and improve your complexion. 

    Key Ingredients: L-ascorbic acid, hyaluronic acid, pineapple, and papaya fruit extracts

    Skin Types: All

    Usage: 1 to 3 times a week

    Quantity: 2 oz.

    Pros
    • Pleasant scent
    • Formulated by physicians
    • Rich in antioxidants
    • Evens out skin tone
    • Prevents dryness
    Cons
    • A little pricey
  • Best for Extra Dry Skin

    Paula's Choice Hydrating Treatment Mask

    Paula's Choice Hydrating Treatment Mask
  • Paula's Choice Treatment Mask is like a reset button for your skin that meets the needs of your dry, flaky, and dehydrated skin. This soothing hydrating face mask replenishes and renews your skin by calming down redness and irritation. It is the go-to skincare product to deal with rosacea and eczema. Featuring an easy-to-spread, creamy texture, the ultra-rich overnight mask fortifies the protective moisture barrier of your skin. Moreover, the multivitamins and antioxidant properties infused in this mask allow it to fight free radicals and keep your skin protected!

    Key Ingredients: Borage oil, evening primrose, fruit seed oils, and vitamins A, C, and E

    Skin Types: All

    Usage: As often as needed

    Quantity: 4 fl. oz.

    Pros
    • Sustainable packaging
    • Phthalate-free
    • Can be used as a rinse-off mask
    • Fragrance-free
    • PETA-certified
    Cons
    • Might feel a little greasy
  • Best for Sensitive Skin

    First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Instant Oatmeal Mask

    First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Instant Oatmeal Mask
  • If your skin looks dry and flaky, then there is no need to panic as long as you have First Aid Beauty’s Ultra Repair Mask at your rescue. This hydrating face mask for sensitive skin rejuvenates distressed-looking skin with its nourishing ingredients and calms down irritation. Having said that, it also protects the moisture barrier of your skin so that you embrace smooth, soft, and supple skin within weeks of consistent usage. Moreover, the formulation is clean, free of artificial fragrances, and superbly rejuvenating.

    Key Ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal and avena sativa oat bran

    Skin Types: Sensitive 

    Usage: 2 to 3 times per week

    Quantity: 2 fl. oz.

    Pros
    • Easy to dispense
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Vegan
    • Smells fantastic
    • Contains essential fatty acids
    • Tested by dermatologists
    Cons
    • Overpriced
  • Most Cost-effective

    Burt's Bees Hydrating Overnight Mask

    Burt's Bees Hydrating Overnight Mask
  • With Burt's Bees Hydrating Overnight Mask, you can fight pesky skin problems such as dullness, overnight, with great ease! While you sleep, the replenishing properties of the mask get to work and lend you intensely hydrated skin the next morning. We also adore the fact that this mask supports a healthy microbiome with the help of its unique blend of key ingredients. Plus, you can also apply this mask to the rest of your body and reap its benefits. Here is what a user has to say — “I have tried the mask sheets of these and for me, this product works better than the sheets. I have also used it on other parts of my body like my hands, elbows, and knees. A little product goes a long way.

    Key Ingredients: Avocado oil, probiotics, and fatty acids

    Skin Types: All

    Usage: As needed

    Quantity: 2.5 oz.

    Pros
    • Dermatologically-tested
    • Cost-effective
    • Prevents dehydration
    • Great for severely dry skin
    • Natural scent
    • Paraben-free
    Cons
    • Very thick texture
  • Dermalogica Multivitamin Power Recovery Masque

    Dermalogica Multivitamin Power Recovery Masque
  • Here comes yet another restorative mask for skin that is exposed to stress and triggered by free radicals. Dermalogica has mindfully crafted the Power Recovery Masque to repair stressed, photodamaged, dull, dehydrated, and aging skin. It flawlessly enhances the skin barrier and leaves it thoroughly moisturized and oh-so-soft. For better results, cleanse your skin with the Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel and generously begin applying this hydrating masque. We assure you that you will love its after-effects!  

    Key Ingredients: Vitamin C and lactic acid

    Skin Types: Dry and mature 

    Usage: Once a week or as needed

    Quantity: 2.5 fl. oz.

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Vegan
    • Creamy texture
    • Gluten-free
    • Reduces wrinkles
    Cons
    • Costly
  • Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask

    Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask
  • Featuring an award-winning, skin-soothing formula, Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask is indeed a skincare staple for all the good reasons. This mask renews tired and dull skin and aims to relieve dryness. In addition, the calming composition of ingredients paves the way for you to embrace a brighter, more even skin tone and texture. What’s more? It reduces the appearance of fine lines and shrinks pores, leaving no place for disappointment. To lock in the results of this hydrating mask, you may consider sealing your skin with the Summer Fridays Shade Drops Mineral Milk Sunscreen.

    Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, allantoin, bisabolol, panthenol, and cucumber extract

    Skin Types:

    Usage: Everyday 

    Quantity: 1 oz.

    Pros
    • Unscented
    • Available in a bigger size
    • Travel-friendly
    • Versatile
    Cons
    • Unsatisfactory packaging
  • Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Hydrating Mask

    Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Hydrating Mask
  • Next, we recommend the Origins Drink Up Hydrating Mask for its impressive ability to provide long-lasting nourishment. With its buttery-soft texture, it restores the lost radiance by instantly quenching the thirst of dehydrated skin. Having said that, the mask prevents future moisture loss and keeps your happy skin days rolling! One of the reviewers on Amazon shares, “I use this mask every night and my daughter uses it occasionally as a mask. It is great for preventing winter dry skin. Kind of expensive, but with delicate skin it's worth it.”

    Key Ingredients: Avocado, glacier water, and fatty acids 

    Skin Types: Dry 

    Usage: As needed

    Quantity: 2.5 fl. oz.

    Pros
    • Safe for sensitive skin
    • Pleasant fragrance
    • Softens the skin
    • Creamy texture
    • Absorbs nicely
    Cons
    • Fragile packaging
  • PCA Skin Hydrating Face Mask

    PCA Skin Hydrating Face Mask
  • What made us recommend PCA Skin’s Hydrating Face Mask is its way of reducing skin irritation by gently offering a dose of hydration. All credit goes to the potency levels of its ingredients that soothe and calm the skin seamlessly. Based on our observations, it is a fail-proof at-home mask that targets skin concerns like acne, blemishes, aging, and discoloration. We also truly appreciate the fact that the mask aims to transform skin health for the good. 

    Key Ingredients: Oat milk, cucumber, glycerin

    Skin Types: All

    Usage: As needed

    Quantity:  2.1 fl. oz.

    Pros
    • Paraben-free
    • Safe for sensitive skin
    • Fragrance-free
    • Recommended by dermatologists
    Cons
    • Very expensive
  • Yon-Ka Hydra No. 1 Masque

    Yon-Ka Hydra No. 1 Masque
  • Lastly, we recommend the Yon-Ka Hydra No.1 Masque for its impeccable anti-aging effect. With its gel-cream texture and natural key ingredients, the mask diminishes the appearance of fine lines and soothes all types of damaged and dry skin. In addition, it is also packed with a punch of vitamins E, C, and A to restore, revive, and rejuvenate your skin thoroughly. The best part — you can use this mask while on the go or simply indulge in a powerfully curing skin treatment at home.

    Key Ingredients: Cogon grass, aloe vera, rose, jasmine, jojoba, sandalwood, barley, and vitamin A

    Skin Types: All

    Usage: 1 to 3 times a week

    Quantity: 1.80 fl. oz.

    Pros
    • Floral scent
    • Great for mature skin
    • Very revitalizing
    • Paraben-free
    • Gentle enough for sensitive skin
    Cons
    • Overpriced

    That was our comprehensive list of the best hydrating face masks. Now, let us run you through a detailed buying guide.

    How to Select the Best Hydrating Face Mask?

    Here are a few aspects that you should consider before splurging on the best hydrating face mask: 

    Skin Type And Concerns: Ensure that you analyze your skin type before splurging on any of the best hydrating face masks. For those with sensitive skin, it is wise to get your hands on the most gentle yet effective mask. Based on our findings, face masks are also highly versatile and target multiple skin concerns like wrinkles, fine lines, blemishes, flaky skin, and prevent dryness. Refrain from purchasing hydrating masks that are not meant for your skin type. 

    List of Key Ingredients: Based on our findings, humectants like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe vera are a few hydrating ingredients that help maintain the skin barrier and restore your skin’s natural radiance. In addition, ceramides and peptides, also aid in boosting collagen production and thereby leaving your skin firmer, plump, and supple. A few other ingredients that help in providing that extra dose of hydration and nourishment are shea butter, amino acids, and flower extracts. Avoid masks that contain harsh and irritating ingredients like parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances as they may cause adverse effects. 

    Texture: Next is the texture of the mask, especially if you are looking for a gel or cream-based everyday or weekly overnight mask. The mask should glide onto your skin with ease and shouldn’t feel sticky or greasy. Primarily, it should be lightweight and should allow your skin to breathe.

    Conclusion

    With any of the best hydrating face masks mentioned above, you will be able to take care of your skin seamlessly. Face masks are an easy, fun, and relaxing way to lend your skin the nutrients and vitamins it craves for plump and healthy skin. Using one on a daily or weekly basis will not only lay a blanket over your skin concerns but also prevent future skin damage or dehydration. Out of the above-mentioned list, it is the Bliss Mighty Marshmallow Bright And Radiant Whipped Mask that managed to earn the top spot for its luxurious formula and potent ingredients. Depending on your skin type, needs, and preferences, you can definitely add any of the moisturizing masks to your regime. We bet, your skin will thank you later! Happy shopping! 

    FAQ's

    Do hydrating face masks actually work?
    Yes, hydrating face masks work to provide an extra boost to your skincare routine.
    What kind of face mask should I use for dry skin?
    Hydrating creams or sheet masks are good for dry skin types.
    Which ingredients are beneficial in a hydrating face mask?
    Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera, ceramides, or extracts like cucumber or rose are beneficial in a hydrating face mask.
    How often should you use one of the best hydrating face masks?
    It depends on the directions of usage. You can either use the face daily or once or twice a week.
    How long should I leave a hydrating face mask on?
    You should leave a hydrating face mask on for 15 to 20 minutes or as directed.
    Do hydrating face masks help with anti-aging concerns?
    Yes, hydrating face masks help with anti-aging concerns and leave your supple, elastic, firm, and soft.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Our certified skincare expert, Anoushka, has meticulously researched the best hydrating face masks for you to make an informed purchasing decision. After considering a plethora of factors like key ingredients, texture, reviews, and directions of usage, she incorporated her honest feedback and curated the list. Personally, she is quite impressed with the  Laneige Water Sleeping Mask for its skin-softening, hydrating, and brightening properties. You can snatch a glimpse of the rest of her recommendations and add one to your beauty arsenal without any second thoughts. 

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Anoushka Sinha
    Skincare Coach & Writer

    Anoushka is certified in Professional Skincare and is a Mass Media (Journalism) graduate from Mumbai University. As a More