I often get asked about what my “all-time favourites” are. The problem is that Japanese beauty products are always revamping their formulas, and so my list is forever changing. Now if we’re talking about “most-used” (which is perhaps more relevant), my CLEAR TURN White Mask (Vitamin C) deserves to be mentioned, considering it is one of my staple products. I use a sheet mask at least twice week, and this is the one I reach for the most during the summer.
Designed to hydrate and brighten the skin while helping with any dark pigmentation, it delivers high-potency stable vitamin C derivative via the Bemliese sheet (it is stronger, much softer, more absorbent, and purer than ordinary sheets due to its patented binder-free technology) that sticks firmly over the entire face without dripping. Unlike many Korean and Taiwanese sheet masks, this one does not rely on boatloads of gimmicky herbal extracts or pretty designs — in addition to the vitamin C I mentioned above, it also features a blend of humectants to bind water to the skin and restore suppleness. Its straightforward formula is free of alcohol, silicones, oils, herbals extracts, fragrance.
I’ll let you into a little secret on how to get the most bang for your sheet mask buck. Before I use a sheet mask, I always use a peeling gel to slough off dead skin cells from the skin’s surface so that the serum soaked into the mask can penetrate better into the skin. I leave the mask on for about 15 minutes, after which I peel it off and literally squeeze the serum out to massage into my entire body. I also use the sheet itself to wipe over feet and hands! Each mask is essentially a full-body treatment. Immediately and in the morning after treatment, my skin feels extraordinarily soft and supple, and it definitely looks more even-toned and bright. It does a great job at giving your summer skin a great big kick up the arse!
There’s 22ml of CLEAR TURN White product soaked in every mask. You get 5 sheet masks in a pack (22ml x 5) and the 2 packs of 5 costs ¥1,120 from Amazon Japan.
I’m an African American. I have dark spots and uneven skin tone. Is there any mask that can help fade my dark spots and gave me a more even skin tone ? Should I use the peeling gel with the mask ?
Using a sheet mask like this on a regular basis can certainly help, but it’s icing on the cake — it doesn’t replace a regular skincare routine with a serum (to fade hyperpigmentation) and a proper high UV sunscreen (to prevent dark spots from worsening).
I like using some sort of physical exfoliant, like a peeling gel, before I do a sheet mask to remove dead skin cells so it absorbs better into the skin. If you’ve sensitive skin, I’d proceed with caution.
I do have a regular skin care routine. I have had acne all my life and I wanted to make sure that this mask would help me with the dark spot. I do have sensitive skin and I do use chemical peels sometimes. I will try the two and see what happens. Thank you.
I’d say this would definitely help if you use it regularly — using a mask once in blue moon won’t have much effect long term.
The peeling gel and the vit C mask together can really irritate sensitive skin, especially if you already do chemical peels. Definitely test the mask on its own first, if you haven’t.
Ok Thank you. I’ll use just the mask.
Would you mind sharing which peeling gel you use prior to applying the sheet mask? The only one I’ve seen a positive review for on your site is the Hanayuki Cleansing Gel, but that was a couple of years ago and it’s currently marked up quite a bit on Amazon as the GoldSakura website is under construction. I’m hoping you might be able to recommend a different one. Thanks!
I’ve always liked Natural Aqua Jel Cure — a classic, really. The Detclear Bright & Peel Fruits Peeling Jelly is nice if you want something more “fun”. Rosette Peeling Gel is quite good if you’re on a really tight budget.
I’ve never used these masks, but I really love the Clear Turn serum which is basically this mask in a bottle:
https://www.ratzillacosme.com/skin/clear-turn-eau-de-claire-beauty-serum/
I totally recommend it, if you haven’t tried it yet! So cheap, light texture, gives me that vitamin c glow!
I have them… I dont know what to make of them. I would just use a proper sheet mask as they’re cheap anyway instead of DIY with the serum and cotton. And I personally wouldn’t use the serum as an actual serum either as there’s much better options available (albeit not as cost-effective).
Oh, I really love it as a serum! It has helped to fade my freckles more than SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic. Would be interested to hear some serums you prefer though!
Difference? To many to list — material of the sheets, packaging (individuallly wrapped vs wet wipes pack), ingredients, etc. Please do a search or check the right side bar for detailed info.
Like my comment to Roseikebana below, I don’t like these large 20+ packs.
How is this compared to the Mentholatum Melano CC Intensive Measures Mask?
Masks in a large 20+ pack like those are meant for near daily use as the whole pack needs to be used up in a month. The sheets are much poorer quality and the serum dries up quickly. I’m not a fan of them in general.
Thanks for your reply. I’ll try the Clear Turn White Mask.
Thanks for your site and your recommendations. I love everything you’ve suggested. I’m ordering these today!
Loving your recent product reviews which feature vitamin C, because that is one of my favourite skincare ingredients. Have you try any good lotion (toner) that contains vitamin C and is also moisturizing? I tried the HadaLabo Shirojyun one but is not impressed. I’m thinking of trying the Mentholatum Melano CC Anit Spot White Lotion because you seem to like their anit-spot essences so much. I really love lotions in general, so it’ll be great if I can find one that offers brightening properties too. Thanks in advance!
Yes, but nothing budget priced. Dr. Ci:Labo VC100 Pore White Lotion is an excellent one (probably not ideal if you’re sensitive) — it’s alcohol free, and it contains a blend of vitamin C derivatives (AA2G, MAP, and Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate) and AHA.
Thanks for the review.
How do you use the Melano CC and this mask sheet?
I’ve bought the Melano CC serum (just received yesterday) based on your review and would like to add a mask sheet to my skincare regime.
Serum goes after the mask.
Hi ….. I am using quality first mask now n wana try other brands too ….this is next buy on the list …. thanks for the review