For me, I have not used a sheet mask in so so long because to be honest, they are just not clean. Most of them are loaded with synthetic fragrances, plastics, irritating preservatives and even dyes!? No thank you. But, that all changed when I discovered this cleaner Korean beauty brand called ESW! While not all of the items are as clean as I’d like, some do use synthetic fragrances so watch out, the ones I do carry are pretty darn clean for a sheet mask which I love! Especially in Summer, is there anything better than a fresh sheet mask, fresh out of the fridge after a warm day in the sun!? I think not. So, if you are a sheet mask lover, here is a bit more about this brand and why I love it!

Because I do not typically use sheet masks, I needed to refresh my memory on the bad guys lurking in most, so off to ULTA’s website I went! I pulled the ingredient labels from popular brands and “natural” sheet masks (yes, including the ones that look clean on the front of the box), and the same offenders kept showing up. Here are some of the worst offenders to keep an eye out for!

Worst Offenders in Sheet Masks

Phenoxyethanol. A synthetic preservative derived from petrochemicals and commonly used as a replacement for parabens. Studies have linked it to skin irritation and contact dermatitis, and laboratory research has raised questions about potential cellular toxicity at certain concentrations.

Chlorphenesin. A synthetic preservative often paired with phenoxyethanol to help prevent microbial growth. It has been associated with skin irritation and allergic reactions, and laboratory studies have reported cytotoxic effects in human cells.

Hydroxyacetophenone. A synthetic antioxidant and preservative booster used to improve formula stability. While generally considered low risk, it is another synthetic additive used to support preservative systems rather than provide skin benefits.

Fragrance, parfum, or “natural fragrance.” A catch-all term that can represent dozens or even hundreds of undisclosed ingredients. Fragrance is one of the leading causes of cosmetic allergic reactions and may contain sensitizers or other compounds consumers cannot identify from the label alone. We also know there are concerning links to hormone disruptions as well.

PEGs (PEG-60, PEG-100, PEG/PPG copolymers, Glycereth-26). Synthetic compounds used as emulsifiers and texture enhancers. They are often manufactured through ethoxylation, a process associated with potential contamination by 1,4-dioxane, a probable human carcinogen. Some PEGs may also increase penetration of certain ingredients through the skin.

Polysorbate 60. An emulsifier produced through a similar ethoxylation process. Like PEGs, concerns primarily center around potential 1,4-dioxane contamination if manufacturing is not carefully controlled.

Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA). A synthetic polymer used as a film former in masks and peel-off products. Environmental researchers have raised concerns about the persistence of synthetic polymers in wastewater and aquatic ecosystems.

Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate. A synthetic polymer derived from polystyrene, the same family of plastics used in Styrofoam. Concerns focus primarily on environmental persistence and plastic pollution.

Cleaner Sheet Masks

Founded by Elina Sofia Wang after her own wellness journey led her to take a closer look at the products she was using, ESW Beauty built its entire concept around bringing juice-inspired ingredients and cleaner formulations into skincare. The result is a collection of sheet masks that are surprisingly difficult to find! While the whole line isn’t clean to my standards, a lot of it is! You can shop my approved items here.

One thing I really loved about ESW was that they use biodegradable cupro sheet masks made from cotton linter rather than the petroleum-based synthetic fibers commonly used in conventional sheet masks. Also, instead of loading their formulas with phenoxyethanol, chlorphenesin, synthetic fragrance, PEGs, and a long list of ingredients I always avoid, ESW focuses on skin-loving botanicals, humectants, antioxidants, and barrier-supportive ingredients that actually deliver something beneficial.

One of my personal faves is the Strawberries & Cream mask! If your skin is sensitive, red, stressed, dehydrated, over-exfoliated, or simply having a moment, this is the mask I reach for most often. Pro Tip- Keep it in the fridge for an extra cooling sensation that is perfect after a warm day in the sun.

This mask is loaded with skin-soothing ingredients like Centella Asiatica, often called cica, which has become one of the most respected ingredients in skincare for its ability to calm visible redness and support a healthier skin barrier. If your skin is reactive, irritated, or simply feeling overwhelmed, cica is one of my faves!

This sheet mask also contains Portulaca Oleracea, a botanical extract rich in antioxidants and soothing compounds that help ease inflammation and environmental stress. Combined with allantoin, beta-glucan, and sodium hyaluronate, this mask focuses heavily on hydration and skin barrier support rather than harsh exfoliation or quick-fix ingredients making it holy grail for times where a quick boost of hydration is needed.

Which Masks To Try

Not sure which mask to try!? Here is a quick cheat sheet to choose from! You can also book a FREE consult with our holistic Estheticians anytime here.

• Avocado Banana Milk — Dry skin, moisture loss, rough texture, deep nourishment.
• Blueberry Coconut Milk — Anti-aging, fine lines, firmness, collagen support.
• Deep Detox — Oily skin, clogged pores, blackheads, congestion, breakouts.
• Matcha Almond Milk — Brightening, antioxidants, radiance, and environmental protection.
• Pineapple Bliss — Glow, radiance, dull skin, uneven tone.
• Spiced Glow — Brightening, antioxidant support, dull skin, healthy glow.
• Strawberries & Cream — Redness, sensitivity, rosacea-prone skin, irritation, inflammation.
• The Blue Dream — Deep hydration, mature skin, dehydration lines, plumping, barrier support.
• The Pink Dream — Everyday hydration, plumping, softness, healthy glow.
• Vanilla Oat Milk — Reactive skin, eczema-prone skin, barrier repair, soothing irritation.

Overall, these are MUCH cleaner sheet mask options, great for teens or adults searching for the cleanest one on the market! Give them a try and let me know how amazing your new glow is because mine right now has me impressed!