In our hyper-visual age, looking good has never been so important. This is true for people of all ages—whether you are a Gen Zer trying to brand yourself on TikTok or Instagram or a Baby Boomer just trying to make it through a day of Zoom calls while working from home. In 2021, it should go without saying that it is also true for people of both genders. Though beauty products have been traditionally marketed toward women, men are now realizing the importance of self-care.
For me, the biggest wellness discovery of the past two years has been the sheet mask. Being forced to wear a (cloth or surgical) mask whenever I leave the house has not been kind to my complexion. There is actually a neologism for this phenomenon, termed “maskne.” No longer solely the plight of awkward teens, acne has spread like a dermatological plague since the onset of COVID-19 regulations. Unfortunately for me, most of the sheet masks available on the market are still intended for women. My guess is this won’t last, but for the time being there are few masks for men to choose from. Here are the best ones I have used.
As you may know, the best skincare products are made in Asia, and the Jaxon Lane Bro Mask is no exception. It is actually a two-piece face mask, intended to help guys with beards, and its diaphanous material will make you feel like Patrick Bateman (hopefully without the killing). The biggest downside is its price. At $7 a mask, there are definitely cheaper options available.
Slightly less expensive is the Wolf Project Mask, priced at $5 apiece. This was actually the first sheet mask I ever used, so I credit it with getting me sold on the idea in the first place. A charcoal mask, it is designed to combat aging while moisturizing and hydrating the skin. The latter effect makes it double as a hangover remedy.
At $2 per mask, the SpaLife volcanic ash face mask is incredibly affordable. For that reason, I consider it the perfect entry point for men who are on the fence about starting their very own a skincare routine. Although it may not result in quite as luxurious experience as the Bro Mask or the Wolf Mask, it will still offer a feeling of nourishment that will leave you excited for your next mask.