In the pursuit of radiant, glowing skin, face masks have become essential tools in every skincare lover’s routine. Whether you’re dealing with dullness, dryness, or uneven tone, the right mask can instantly boost luminosity and deeply nourish the skin. But not all masks are created equal. With countless options on the market, it’s crucial to choose products backed by science, praised by users, and packed with powerful ingredients.
In this article, I’ll break down five of the best face masks for achieving luminous, glowing skin, highlighting their benefits, brand names, pricing, ingredients, and how to use them. Let’s glow!
1. Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask
Price: $49 for 2.25 oz (64g)
Where to buy: Sephora, Cult Beauty, SummerFridays.com
Why We Love It:
This is the cult-favorite mask that put Summer Fridays on the map. It’s an all-in-one hydrating, brightening, and calming mask that works overnight or as a quick glow-boost before makeup.
Key Ingredients:
- Niacinamide – evens skin tone and minimizes dullness
- Chestnut Extract – gently exfoliates for radiant skin
- Hyaluronic Acid – provides deep hydration
- Vitamin C – boosts brightness and radiance
Skin Type:
Perfect for dry, sensitive, and tired skin.
How to Use:
Apply a thick layer on clean skin. Leave on for 10 minutes and wipe off, or leave overnight as a sleeping mask.
2. Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask
Price: $40 for 2.7 oz (80ml)
Where to buy: Sephora, GlowRecipe.com
Why We Love It:
This Korean-inspired jelly mask smells like watermelon heaven and delivers smooth, glassy skin by morning. It’s gentle, effective, and doesn’t clog pores.
Key Ingredients:
- Watermelon Extract – soothes inflammation and hydrates
- AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) – exfoliates dead skin cells
- Hyaluronic Acid – draws moisture into the skin
Skin Type:
Great for normal, combination, and oily skin.
How to Use:
Apply a dime-sized amount before bed. Rinse off in the morning. Use 2–3 times a week.
3. La Mer The Treatment Lotion Hydrating Mask
Price: $170 for 6 sheet masks
Where to buy: LaMer.com, Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue
Why We Love It:
This luxurious sheet mask drenches your skin in La Mer’s signature Miracle Broth™ for immediate hydration and luminosity. It’s perfect for special occasions or when your skin needs a serious glow-up.
Key Ingredients:
- Miracle Broth™ – energizes and revitalizes dull skin
- Glycerin – locks in moisture
- Algae Extract – soothes and nourishes
Skin Type:
Ideal for mature, dry, or dehydrated skin.
How to Use:
Place the sheet mask on your face and leave for 8 minutes. Press the remaining essence into the skin afterward.
4. The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque
Price: $13.50 for 1.7 oz (50ml)
Where to buy: TheOrdinary.com, Ulta Beauty
Why We Love It:
If your skin is congested and dull, this budget-friendly mask gently exfoliates and clears out pores without stripping moisture. It’s a favorite among beauty editors and dermatologists alike.
Key Ingredients:
- Salicylic Acid (2%) – unclogs pores and refines texture
- Charcoal & Clay – detoxifies and removes impurities
- Squalane – hydrates and maintains skin barrier
Skin Type:
Best for oily, acne-prone, or dull skin.
How to Use:
Apply evenly on dry skin. Leave on for 10 minutes, rinse off with lukewarm water. Use once or twice a week.
5. Fresh Vitamin Nectar Vibrancy-Boosting Face Mask
Price: $66 for 3.3 oz (100ml)
Where to buy: Sephora, Fresh.com
Why We Love It:
Packed with real crushed fruit, this citrusy mask instantly brightens the skin and boosts radiance. It’s like a smoothie for your face.
Key Ingredients:
- Vitamin C, E, B5 – protect and brighten the skin
- AHA Fruit Acids – exfoliate gently
- Orange and Lemon Fruit Extracts – refresh and energize
Skin Type:
Great for dull, tired, and normal skin types.
How to Use:
Massage a generous amount on clean skin. Leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse. Use 2–3 times a week.
Bonus: DIY Radiance Mask at Home
If you’re looking for an affordable glow-up, try this simple DIY turmeric honey mask:
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tbsp raw honey
- 1 tbsp Greek yogurt
Mix and apply for 10–15 minutes. This natural mask helps reduce inflammation, fade dark spots, and leaves skin smooth and luminous.
How to Maximize Results from Your Mask
To get the best glow possible, follow these masking tips:
- Always cleanse first – Clean skin allows ingredients to absorb better.
- Exfoliate gently beforehand – Removes dead skin so your mask penetrates deeper.
- Use a warm towel – Open up pores for better ingredient absorption.
- Don’t overdo it – Masking too often can irritate your skin. 2–3 times a week is plenty.
- Moisturize after – Lock in the benefits with a good moisturizer or face oil.
Whether you’re preparing for a big event or simply want to give your skin a little TLC after a long week, incorporating one of these glow-boosting masks into your skincare routine can make a world of difference. A good face mask isn’t just a skincare step—it’s a moment of self-care. It helps you slow down, reset, and give your complexion the nutrients and hydration it craves.
From luxury splurges like La Mer’s Treatment Lotion Mask, which drenches your skin in premium ingredients and leaves you feeling red carpet-ready, to affordable powerhouses like The Ordinary’s Salicylic Acid 2% Masque, perfect for tackling dullness and congestion on a budget, there’s truly something for every need, skin type, and wallet.
The key lies in consistency and understanding what your skin needs on any given day. Feeling dry and tired? Opt for something hydrating and soothing. Battling breakouts or rough texture? Go for a gentle exfoliating formula. And don’t underestimate the power of ritual—light a candle, play some relaxing music, and let your skin soak in all the goodness.
With the right mask, glowing skin isn’t just a fantasy—it becomes part of your weekly routine. So pick your favorite, indulge in the moment, and let your skin drink up the glow. You—and your skin—deserve it.
