Sheetmasks have been a staple in K-beauty for as long as we can remember. However, a new star has made its mark in the industry (and in Kbeauty-lovers’ hearts) recently: toning pads! But what sets these pads apart from sheetmasks? Keep reading to find out: Toning pads or sheetmasks – what’s best for your skin, really?
Seriously thin pads – perfect for toning, masking, AND snacking!
Toning pads – aren’t they for toning?
Well, you’re not wrong. However, lately the term “toning pad” has become more fluid, describing pads that can be used for toning OR masking. In fact, a lot of the newer pads on the Korean market are specially formulated to be used for patch masking rather than just toning your skin.
These convenient pads have become a staple in K-beauty because of how easy they are to use and customize (toning pads are a multi-maskers dream!). And their friendly price point is another plus!
For example, we have been loving THE LAB by blanc doux Green Flavonoid 2.5 Pads.
These pads are ultra-thin, so they’ll stick to your skin comfortably for patch masking while the Green Tangerine extract helps tone, soothe, and treat uneven skin tone and texture.
Toning pads are multi-functional.
Toning pads or sheetmasks – what’s better?
Not sure if you should try toning masks or just stick with your trusty sheetmasks? Use this handy chart to help you decide!
| Sheetmask or Toning pads? | Sheetmasks | Toning Pads |
| Convenience | Not super convenient and can be a bit messy | Very convenient, just use small tongs to pick up a pad! |
| Effectiveness | Very effective if you want to treat your skin all over | Effective in patches – takes a few pads to cover your whole face |
| Versatility | Not very versatile, a sheet is usually covered in the same essence/active all over | Very versatile – you can mix and match patches all over your face to suit your skin’s needs |
| Comfort | Can be uncomfortable if your face size/shape doesn’t align with the specific masks cutouts/shape | Very comfortable, no bothersome eye and mouth-holes! |
| Eco-friendliness | Single-use packet but not the most environmentally friendly | Single-use packaged in a larger, plastic tub – still plastic, but less packaging for each individual pad |
| Snackability | One of the biggest sheet mask pet peeves: it’s too hard to snack when the mouth holes are so small! | Snack away, baby! As long as you don’t place the pads directly around your mouth you can snack while using toning pads to mask |
Are toning pads the new sheetmasks?
Yes, and no! Sheetmasks are not going away any time soon. Of course, we still love the luxurious sensation of placing a sheet on your skin. The feeling of sinking into some kind of meditation mode for a good 20 minutes while all the juicy essences work their magic…
What is happening, however, is that the masking market is getting some well-needed updates with the rise of the toning pads. This is due to how easy they are to use and how much you can tailor them to your skin’s needs.
Toning Pads are for you if:
- You like multi-tasking skincare products
- You love convenience – they’re quick and easy to use!
- You are environmentally conscious
Sheetmasks are for you if:
- You like your masks really SOAKED in essence
- You want a luxurious all-over feel
- You love trying new products and don’t like stocking up on one specific thing
Toning Pads or sheetmasks? Final thoughts
In short, I’m just as much of a sucker for a good sheetmask as I am for toning pads. They’re both great for different occasions to fit your current lifestyle. For a full self-care routine, whip out some sheetmask favorites from 107 or Hyggee; For a quick pick-me-up in the mornings, place a few pads from The Lab by blanc doux on your cheeks to leave the house with refreshed, glowy skin.
Toning pads or sheetmasks – what’s your pick? Let us know in the comments below!
