Whenever there's a ton of buzz generating around specific beauty products, I tend to be one of a few skeptics. It can't be that good, right? So when the opportunity to review the cult-favorite Jet Lag mask from breakout beauty brand Summer Fridays came along, I hopped on it, but not without a few doubts.
For reference, I have normal-to-oily skin that is even-toned, but gets congested easily and has a penchant for hormonal breakouts. The main goal of the Jet Lag mask, which is appropriately named after the dulling effects of airplanes, is to provide rich hydration and leave you looking dewy. As someone whose skin screams "shine!!" rather than "dew," I was a bit nervous to see how that would translate on my already well-oiled countenance.
The mask retails at $48 for a standard 2.25oz tube, but also comes in a mini size for $25. It has the "Clean at Sephora" stamp of approval, which means its free from certain ingredients like sulfates, parabens, phthalates, formaldehyde, and more. Summer Fridays is also cruelty-free. As someone who uses mostly clean and non-toxic products on my face and body, knowing this about the brand gave it a leg up.
Upon my deep investigative analysis of the mask, I was initially struck by the pretty, minimalist packaging. As an added bonus, the sleek tube is free of plastic, save for the cap. The mask itself feels like the intense moisturizers used during professional facials. I applied a thin layer after cleansing and the luxurious consistency felt like a cashmere sweater for my skin. After about a minute, I began to feel the cooling peppermint oil and nourishing shea butter settle in.
Other noteworthy ingredients in the Jet Lag mask include ceramides, which protect the skin barrier; niacinamide, which helps to reduce pore size and fine lines; chestnut extract, which serves as a gentle exfoliant (this is a smooth mask with no physical exfoliants); and vitamin C, a well-known brightening agent and moisture magnet.
After 15 minutes of face mask bliss, I used a warm washcloth to blot off excess. I found the mask a bit sticky, so despite encouragement to use it as an overnight treatment, I decided against it. My skin felt super hydrated and was visibly brighter (my roommate agreed), but nothing would compare to the glow I saw in the morning.
My skin was baby-soft and plump when I woke up, and despite waking up after a mere five hours of sleep, I looked like I had gotten Sleeping Beauty-level slumber. The slight redness I tend to get on my cheeks seemingly vanished overnight, leaving behind a subtle radiance—not an oily sheen. It's safe to say that this treatment will take up residence in my medicine cabinet for those days that I need a little boost.
