Should you use a sleeping mask before or after moisturizer?

What order does sleeping mask go in?

For a sleeping mask intended to go over moisturizer, use this sequence:

1. 1Cleanse your face to remove the day's dirt and residue.
2. 2Apply any other products already in your routine in their usual order. General layering guidance is to move from lighter formulas to heavier ones, before moisturizer.
3. 3Apply your moisturizer. For a simple cleansing and moisturizing routine, apply moisturizer while your skin is still slightly damp to help trap moisture.
4. 4Gently smooth the sleeping mask evenly over your face with your fingertips. Laneige tells you to let its masks absorb completely.
5. 5Leave the sleeping mask on overnight as directed. With Laneige's facial sleeping masks, rinse with water in the morning, then continue your morning routine.

Do you apply sleeping mask as the last step?

Yes, when the sleeping mask is designed to finish your nighttime routine. Laneige describes that final layer as sealing in your skincare while you sleep. You do not need to put another layer of moisturizer over a mask with those directions.1

A mask that you wash off during your routine has a different order: remove the mask, then apply moisturizer. Do not leave a wash off mask on overnight just because both products have 'mask' in the name. The label determines how long a mask stays on your face.2

Can you layer sleeping mask over cream?

Yes. If your cream is your moisturizer, apply it before a sleeping mask whose directions specify use after moisturizer. Moisturizers help reduce water evaporating from the skin and support the skin barrier, the outer layer that keeps moisture in and irritants out. General advice to finish your night routine with moisturizer applies to a routine without this extra finishing layer.1345

Keep cleansing and moisturizing, and use sun protection in the morning. Adding more products increases the chance of side effects; an extra layer is not automatically a better routine.23

What should you expect, and how often should you use it?

Facial masks can boost hydration and help strengthen the skin barrier. Choose the formula for the benefit you want: Laneige's Water Sleeping Mask is a lightweight gel cream for hydration, while its Cica Sleeping Mask is a richer balm cream for soothing hydration. Sleeping masks come in different textures, so 'mask' is a job title, not a consistency.12

Laneige directs daily use of its facial sleeping masks and describes overnight hydration benefits. Other masks have their own schedules, so use the frequency on your product's label rather than assuming every sleeping mask belongs in every night's routine.12

What should you check before adding a sleeping mask?

Test a new mask on small areas first. For dry or sensitive skin, look for moisturizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin or ceramides. Avoid fragrance, essential oils and rubbing alcohol. If you already use retinol or exfoliating acids, avoid a mask that duplicates those active ingredients. Strong exfoliating masks need particular caution on sensitive skin.2

Wash the mask off immediately if you feel itching, burning or stinging. See a dermatologist if your skin feels worse after using it. Facial masks do not replace treatment for acne or eczema.2