Cucumber Gel Mask
Cucumber Gel Mask
Product Description
Product overview
An ultra-gentle, cooling gel mask that soothes, hydrates, and calms the look of dry or irritated skin with a botanical blend of cucumber, papaya, chamomile, aloe vera, and 10+ plant extracts. A spa-level treatment loved for post-sun, post-peel, and sensitive skin recovery.
10+ Botanical Extracts
A rich blend of cucumber, papaya, chamomile, pineapple, bilberry, sugar maple, sugarcane, orange, lemon, mango, and aloe vera work together to soothe and hydrate.
Texture & feel
SENSORY10+ Botanical Extracts
A rich blend of cucumber, papaya, chamomile, pineapple, bilberry, sugar maple, sugarcane, orange, lemon, mango, and aloe vera work together to soothe and hydrate.
Cooling Spa-Level Relief
Refrigerate for an extra-cooling effect that calms sunburn, redness, and post-procedure irritation on contact.
Dual Use: Rinse-Off or Overnight
Apply for 10 minutes and rinse off, or use a thin layer as a sleeping mask for intensive overnight hydration.
Post-Procedure Recovery
Formulated to soothe skin after sun exposure, chemical peels, waxing, facials, extractions, and electrolysis.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. Contains only gentle botanical extracts and humectants safe for use during pregnancy and nursing.
Contains Polysorbate 20, which may feed Malassezia yeast. While it is a wash-off product (reducing risk), those with active fungal acne breakouts should patch test first.
Water-based gel formula with no heavy oils, waxes, or silicones. Very unlikely to clog pores. Suitable for acne-prone skin.
Free from sulfates, parabens, and phthalates. Contains allantoin and chamomile for active soothing. Suitable for very sensitive and reactive skin types.
Includes Yellow 5 (CI 19140) and Blue 1 (CI 42090) for the green color. Generally well-tolerated, but those with dye sensitivities should be aware.
Contains lemon and orange fruit extracts. While present in low concentrations and not photosensitizing in this formula, very reactive skin may want to patch test first.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCucumber Fruit ExtractProven
The star ingredient, listed high on the INCI (3rd position). Cucumber extract is rich in vitamins C and K, along with caffeic acid, providing soothing, hydrating, and anti-inflammatory benefits for the skin.
- Function: Nourishes, hydrates, comforts, soothes, calms, and helps de-puff the appearance of skin
- Research: Cucumis sativus extract has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in dermatological studies
- Benefit: Provides immediate cooling and calming sensation on contact
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf JuiceProven
Whole-leaf aloe vera juice provides deep hydration and helps repair the skin barrier. One of the most well-studied botanical soothers in skincare with centuries of traditional use.
- Function: Hydrates, soothes irritation, supports skin healing, and forms a protective moisture barrier
- Research: Contains over 75 active compounds including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and polysaccharides
- Benefit: Particularly effective at calming sunburn and post-procedure redness
Chamomile Extract & OilProven
Both chamomile (Matricaria) flower extract and essential oil are included for maximum soothing power. Contains bisabolol and chamazulene, known for their anti-inflammatory and calming properties.
- Function: Comforts and soothes the look of skin, reduces visible redness
- Research: Bisabolol has demonstrated anti-irritant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activity
- Benefit: Works synergistically with cucumber and aloe for enhanced calming effects
AllantoinProven
A gentle, well-tolerated active known for promoting skin healing and cell regeneration. Helps protect irritated skin and accelerates the renewal of damaged tissue.
- Function: Soothes, calms, and promotes skin repair
- Research: Classified as a skin protectant by the FDA; promotes keratinocyte proliferation
- Benefit: Makes this mask suitable even for use after invasive procedures like extractions and peels
Sodium PCAProven
The sodium salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid, a natural component of the skin's own Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF). One of the most effective humectants available.
- Function: Binds moisture to the skin, preventing trans-epidermal water loss and dehydration
- Research: PCA makes up approximately 12% of the skin's natural NMF
- Benefit: Provides long-lasting hydration that mimics the skin's own moisture system
Papaya, Pineapple & Fruit Enzyme ComplexPromising
A blend of papaya, pineapple, sugar maple, sugarcane, orange, lemon, bilberry, and mango extracts. These natural fruit enzymes gently soften the skin and provide antioxidant protection.
- Function: Natural enzymes help softly exfoliate and soften the skin's appearance
- Research: Papain (papaya) and bromelain (pineapple) are proteolytic enzymes that dissolve dead skin cells
- Bilberry: Rich in anthocyanins, provides antioxidant protection against free radical damage
29 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Butylene Glycol, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit Extract, Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit/Leaf Extract, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract, Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugar Cane) Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Oil, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Mangifera Indica (Mango) Fruit Extract, Sodium PCA, Allantoin, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid, Carbomer, Triethanolamine, Polysorbate 20, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Yellow 5 (CI 19140), Blue 1 (CI 42090)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse 2–3 times per week after cleansing. Can also be applied as a thin overnight sleeping mask as the last step. Refrigerate for an extra-cooling spa experience.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Skin
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry. For best absorption, use after exfoliating.
Apply a Generous Layer
Scoop out a quarter-sized amount and spread evenly across face and neck. Can also be applied under the eye area to help reduce puffiness.
Wait 10 Minutes
Allow the mask to sit for approximately 10 minutes. You will feel an immediate cooling, soothing sensation.
Rinse with Cool Water
Gently rinse off with cool water and pat dry. Follow with your regular toner, serum, and moisturizer.
Overnight Option (Intensive Treatment)
For deep hydration, apply a thin layer as the final step of your nighttime routine and leave on overnight. Rinse off in the morning.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, dehydrated, or irritated skin that needs soothing
- You want a calming mask for post-sun, post-peel, or post-waxing recovery
- You have sensitive or reactive skin that flares from harsh treatments
- You love a cooling spa-like experience at home
- You want a versatile mask (rinse-off or overnight sleeping mask)
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe hydrating mask
Consider alternatives if:
- You need deep anti-aging or wrinkle-targeting results (this is a soothing mask, not a treatment mask)
- You have active fungal acne (contains Polysorbate 20)
- You are sensitive to artificial dyes (contains Yellow 5 and Blue 1)
- You prefer completely fragrance-free products (has light botanical scent)
- You want intense exfoliation (the fruit enzymes are very gentle)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis mask was designed for dry, dehydrated skin. Deeply hydrating botanicals and humectants like Sodium PCA, glycerin, and aloe vera provide lasting moisture relief.
Specifically formulated as an anti-irritant. Allantoin, chamomile, and cucumber provide gentle soothing without stinging. A go-to after procedures and irritation.
Lightweight gel texture hydrates dry zones without overloading oily areas. Works well as a targeted treatment on parched cheeks and irritated areas.
Oil-free gel formula absorbs cleanly without added greasiness. Provides needed hydration that oily skin often lacks without contributing to shine.
Non-comedogenic (rated 1/5) with no heavy oils. Helps calm acne-related redness and irritation. Contains Polysorbate 20 — patch test if you have fungal acne.
Provides excellent hydration that plumps fine lines temporarily. Bilberry antioxidants offer free radical protection. Pair with a dedicated anti-aging serum for best results.
Results timeline
4+ WEEKSInstant Cooling & Soothing
Skin feels immediately cooled, calmed, and refreshed on application. Redness visibly reduced. Many users describe a sensation of skin "drinking up" the moisture.
90% noticed instant soothingVisible Hydration & Softness
Skin appears plumper, softer, and more hydrated. Post-procedure redness and irritation are noticeably reduced. Skin has a healthy, refreshed glow.
85% reported softer skinImproved Skin Comfort
With regular use (2–3x per week), overall skin texture feels smoother and more balanced. Chronic dryness and sensitivity begin to improve noticeably.
75% noticed reduced irritationCumulative Hydration & Radiance
Long-term users report consistently calmer, more resilient skin with a healthy glow. Best results achieved when used regularly as part of a complete routine.
70% reported lasting improvementRatings by platform
9K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Instantly soothes and cools irritated, sunburned, or post-procedure skin
- Versatile use: 10-minute mask, overnight sleeping mask, or post-workout cooldown
- Suitable for all skin types including very sensitive skin
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Free from sulfates, parabens, and phthalates
- Works beautifully when refrigerated for a spa-like experience
- Can be applied under the eye area to de-puff
- Generous 150ml jar lasts approximately 6 months with regular use
Criticized
- Premium price point (~$55) for a primarily soothing/hydrating product
- Contains artificial colorants Yellow 5 and Blue 1
- Some users find the hydration too lightweight and not long-lasting enough
- Botanical scent may bother fragrance-sensitive individuals
- Not a treatment mask — won't address wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, or acne directly
- Gel texture can evaporate quickly, especially in dry climates
- Jar packaging is less hygienic than tube or airless pump
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESA K-beauty cult classic with 92% aloe vera. Provides similar soothing and cooling benefits at a fraction of the price. Lacks the complex botanical blend (papaya, chamomile, bilberry) but delivers comparable hydration and calming. Comes in a large 300ml tub.
Korean soothing gel with aloe vera and propolis for anti-inflammatory benefits. More targeted for acne-prone and irritated skin. Clean ingredient list without artificial dyes. Smaller 100ml size but fungal acne safe.
A lightweight, multi-purpose aloe gel at an incredible value. Can be used as a face mask, body moisturizer, and even hair treatment. Simpler formula without fruit enzymes or chamomile, but delivers strong cooling and hydrating effects. 250ml size.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place. Refrigerate for an extra-cooling, spa-like soothing experience (brand recommended).
Screw-top jar (150ml). Use a clean spatula to maintain hygiene and extend shelf life.
No — 150ml exceeds the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Purchase the 14ml deluxe sample size for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This mask contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, or chemical sunscreen filters. The formula is made up of gentle botanical extracts (cucumber, chamomile, aloe vera), humectants (glycerin, sodium PCA), and allantoin — all considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Use with caution. The formula contains Polysorbate 20, a polysorbate emulsifier that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast and trigger fungal acne in susceptible individuals. However, because this is a wash-off product (not a leave-on treatment), the risk is lower than with daily moisturizers. If you have active fungal acne, patch test first or consider alternatives like Benton Aloe Propolis Soothing Gel.
Yes, and it works wonderfully after using actives! This soothing mask is actually ideal to use after chemical exfoliants (AHA/BHA) or retinol treatments to calm any irritation or dryness they may cause. Apply the mask after cleansing off actives, or use it the morning after a retinol night to reduce redness and restore hydration. There are no conflicting ingredients in this formula.
This mask is formulated for all skin types, but it is especially well-suited for dry, dehydrated, and sensitive skin. It is an excellent choice for anyone who experiences redness, irritation, or post-procedure discomfort. Oily and combination skin types also benefit from the lightweight, oil-free gel texture that hydrates without adding greasiness.
You will feel and see results immediately. The cooling gel provides instant soothing, calming redness and tightness on first application. Skin feels noticeably softer and more hydrated after just one 10-minute session. For cumulative benefits — improved skin texture, reduced chronic dryness, and more resilient skin — use consistently 2–3 times per week for at least 2–4 weeks.
As a rinse-off mask: Apply after cleansing (step 2 or 3) before your toner, serum, and moisturizer. Leave on for 10 minutes, rinse with cool water, then continue your routine. As an overnight sleeping mask: Apply a thin layer as the very last step of your nighttime routine, after all serums and moisturizers.
This mask has a very low comedogenic risk, rated 1 out of 5. It is a water-based gel formula with no heavy oils, waxes, coconut derivatives, or silicones that typically clog pores. The lightweight gel texture absorbs cleanly and is suitable for acne-prone skin. Many users with breakout-prone skin report using it without any pore-clogging issues.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. The 150ml jar will last approximately 6 months with regular use (2–3 times per week). Use a clean spatula to scoop product from the jar to maintain hygiene and maximize shelf life. Store in a cool, dry place or refrigerate for the best experience and preservation.
Verdict: The Peter Thomas Roth Cucumber Gel Mask is a solid, well-loved soothing and hydrating mask that delivers exactly what it promises — instant relief for dry, irritated, or post-procedure skin. The 10+ botanical extract blend provides a genuinely calming, spa-like experience, and the dual-use versatility (rinse-off or overnight) adds real value. It is pregnancy safe, very low in comedogenic risk, and suitable for virtually all skin types. However, at ~$55, the premium price point can be hard to justify for what is primarily a soothing gel — especially with excellent budget alternatives available. The inclusion of artificial dyes is also a drawback for clean beauty enthusiasts. If you prioritize immediate soothing, cooling comfort, and love the ritual of a luxe mask, this is a fantastic pick. For those on a budget or seeking stronger actives, consider the alternatives above.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Cucumis Sativus Fruit Extract
Emollient, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 0 |
Ananas Sativus Fruit Extract
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit/Leaf Extract
Astringent, Refreshing, Skin Conditioning, Tonic
|
|








