The history of skincare treatments dates back thousands of years, originating in ancient China and later refined in Korea. These beauty traditions, passed down through generations, have shaped modern skincare, leading to the creation of the sheet mask—a fusion of heritage and innovation.
The earliest recorded beauty rituals trace back to the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD), an era celebrated for its cultural, artistic, and cosmetic advancements. During this time, skincare was not merely a routine but a symbol of status, particularly among imperial concubines and noblewomen. A flawless, luminous complexion was considered the pinnacle of beauty, inspiring elaborate skincare treatments. Historical records reveal that these women used exquisite botanical and herbal formulations, blending pearl powder, white jade powder, rice water, ginseng, lotus root, and tea extracts. These precious ingredients were believed to brighten the skin, enhance elasticity, and preserve youthfulness. Initially exclusive to the royal court, their meticulously recorded formulas became the foundation of ancient Chinese beauty rituals. Over time, these skincare traditions extended beyond the palace, reaching the upper class and wealthy merchants. The use of botanical and herbal formulations became deeply ingrained in Chinese beauty culture, emphasizing harmony between nature and the skin. However, these treatments primarily existed in the form of powders and pastes—applied, left to dry, and then rinsed off.
By the 18th century, skincare traditions from China had influenced beauty rituals across East Asia, including Korea, through cultural exchange and regional trade. In Korea, women combined botanical and herbal formulations with their unique fermentation practices, incorporating rice water, green tea, and fermented plant extracts to enhance hydration and skin nourishment. Building upon these influences, Korea advanced facial treatments by introducing fabric-based applications that allowed prolonged skin contact with botanical essences. Unlike in China, where facial treatments were primarily powders and pastes, Korea refined this approach by using fabric or hanji (traditional Korean mulberry paper) soaked in botanical essences, ensuring deeper hydration and improved absorption. This innovation transformed skincare practices, shifting away from fast-drying pastes toward treatments that delivered continuous hydration. The fabric allowed active ingredients to penetrate more effectively while preventing rapid evaporation. Initially favoured by Korean aristocrats, this method gradually became more widespread, laying the foundation for the modern sheet mask.
By the 1990s, Korea had cemented its position as a global leader in skincare innovation. Drawing inspiration from Korean historical beauty practices, Korean beauty brands developed the first modern sheet masks, combining traditional knowledge with cutting-edge science. These pre-cut fabric masks, infused with concentrated serums, targeted key skin concerns such as hydration, brightening, and anti-aging. Unlike early facial mask treatments, modern sheet masks are precisely formulated with active ingredients designed for optimal absorption. With just 10–20 minutes of application, they deliver deep hydration and nourishment—offering a simple yet effective skincare solution. As K-Beauty (Korean Beauty) gained international recognition in the 2000s, sheet masks quickly became a global phenomenon, transforming skincare routines worldwide.
From the imperial beauty rituals of the Tang Dynasty to Korea’s development of fabric-soaked masks in the 18th century, and finally to today’s scientifically advanced sheet masks, this skincare essential has evolved over centuries. Each innovation has built upon the last, seamlessly blending tradition with modern technology to enhance efficacy and accessibility. At LANVIE, we honour this rich tradition by blending heritage-inspired skincare wisdom with modern innovation, creating sheet masks that deliver gentle yet effective care. Inspired by the evolution of sheet masks, we are dedicated to elevating skincare for sensitive skin—helping individuals feel comfortable in their own skin, where confidence comes naturally and beauty shines effortlessly.
The history of skincare treatments dates back thousands of years, originating in ancient China and later refined in Korea. These beauty traditions, passed down through generations, have shaped modern skincare, leading to the creation of the sheet mask—a fusion of heritage and innovation.
The history of skincare treatments dates back thousands of years, originating in ancient China and later refined in Korea. These beauty traditions, passed down through generations, have shaped modern skincare, leading to the creation of the sheet mask—a fusion of heritage and innovation.
Our skin constantly loses moisture due to environmental factors, leading to dryness and sensitivity. Sheet masks provide an instant surge of hydration, helping the skin absorb and retain moisture more effectively. They also act as a protective layer, reinforcing the skin’s natural barrier to defend against external stressors, leaving the skin feeling soft, soothed, and refreshed.
A sheet mask helps optimize the delivery of skincare benefits by creating a breathable barrier that locks in nourishment. This allows the skin to absorb the essence more efficiently, promoting a visibly healthier, plumper, and more radiant complexion in just one use. It’s a simple yet powerful way to boost your skincare routine with long-lasting results.
Designed for modern lifestyles, sheet masks offer a convenient and effective way to care for your skin without any mess or extra steps. Whether as part of your daily regimen or a quick refresh before an important occasion, they provide an instant boost anytime, anywhere. More than just skincare, they create a moment of relaxation, transforming your routine into a self-care ritual that nurtures both your skin and emotional well-being.