Overnight Hydrating Mask
Overnight Hydrating Mask
Product Description
Product overview
The Sephora Collection Overnight Hydrating Mask is a dual-purpose, fragrance-free sleeping mask enriched with plant-derived Hyaluronic Acid and Polyglutamic Acid. Use it as an intensive 10-minute morning mask or leave it on overnight as a sleeping mask — clinically proven to deliver 55% more hydration after just 8 hours. Formulated with 93% natural-origin ingredients and free from parabens, sulfates, and mineral oil.
Dual-Action Hydration Complex
Combines plant-derived Sodium Hyaluronate (0.40–0.90%) and Polyglutamic Acid (0.05–0.20%) — two complementary humectants that attract and lock in moisture at multiple skin depths for up to 24-hour hydration.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDual-Action Hydration Complex
Combines plant-derived Sodium Hyaluronate (0.40–0.90%) and Polyglutamic Acid (0.05–0.20%) — two complementary humectants that attract and lock in moisture at multiple skin depths for up to 24-hour hydration.
Two-Way Mask Format
Uniquely versatile: apply a thick layer each morning and rinse after 10 minutes for a quick hydration boost, or use as a traditional sleeping mask every evening for intensive overnight repair.
93% Natural-Origin Vegan Formula
Made with sunflower seed oil, jojoba seed oil, and betaine from sugar beet. Free from animal-derived ingredients, parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, and synthetic fragrance — certified Clean at Sephora.
Clinically Proven Results
Tested on 33 volunteers: skin was 55% more hydrated after 8 hours. After 28 days of use: 41% more radiant, 30% firmer skin, and fatigue signs improved by 44%. 100% satisfaction rate in usage surveys.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients — including Hyaluronic Acid and Polyglutamic Acid — are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always consult your doctor if uncertain.
Does not contain fermented ingredients, fatty acid esters (C11–C24), polysorbates, or other Malassezia-feeding compounds. Both sunflower oil and jojoba oil used here are non-comedogenic and do not exacerbate fungal acne.
Key oils (sunflower seed oil and jojoba seed oil) both rate 0–2 on the comedogenic scale. The overall formula is considered very unlikely to clog pores, suitable for acne-prone skin types.
Completely unscented with no added perfume or fragrance compounds. Rated low irritation potential by science-based analysis platforms. Suitable for sensitive and reactive skin types.
Formulated without parabens, sulfates, phthalates, mineral oil, formaldehyde, hydroquinone, oxybenzone, triclosan, and over 50 other restricted ingredients under Sephora's Clean standard.
Clinically tested and confirmed suitable for normal, dry, combination, and sensitive skin. The lightweight gel-cream texture layers well under other products without pilling or heaviness.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin ~3.6–5.3%Proven
One of the most well-researched humectants in skincare, Glycerin (Glycerol) is a skin-identical ingredient naturally found in the skin's barrier. It draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers to the stratum corneum, maintaining optimal hydration levels and supporting barrier repair.
- Function: Humectant, skin-identical moisturizer
- Concentration: Estimated 3.6–5.3% based on position in INCI list
- Evidence: Numerous peer-reviewed studies confirm efficacy in improving skin hydration and barrier function
- Comedogenic Rating: 0/5 — Non-comedogenic
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil ~5–10%Proven
Sunflower seed oil is a high-linoleic acid emollient (50–74% linoleic acid) that protects and enhances the skin barrier. It is particularly beneficial for acne-prone and dry skin, and speeds up barrier recovery after damage. The unrefined version used in cosmetics is considered one of the best plant oils for skin health.
- Function: Emollient, barrier repair, occlusive
- Key Finding: Research by Bauman (Cosmetic Dermatology) shows significant skin barrier recovery within 1 hour of application, sustained for 5 hours
- Linoleic Acid: 50–74% — excellent for dry and acne-prone skin
- Comedogenic Rating: 0/5 — Non-comedogenic
Betaine ~2.7–4.0%Proven
Betaine is an amino acid derivative sourced from sugar beet. It functions as both a humectant and osmoprotectant — it helps cells retain water under stress conditions, providing long-lasting hydration without a sticky or tacky feel. It also has mild skin-soothing properties.
- Function: Humectant, osmoprotectant, skin conditioner
- Concentration: Estimated 2.7–4.0% by position in INCI
- Source: Sugar beet — natural origin
- Benefit: Improves skin hydration without stickiness, complements glycerin's moisture-attracting action
Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid) ~0.4–0.9%Proven
The sodium salt form of Hyaluronic Acid (HA), smaller molecular weight than standard HA, allowing better skin penetration. It is naturally present in the skin and connective tissue and can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Derived from wheat and corn in this formula (plant-origin HA).
- Function: Humectant, hydration booster, plumping agent
- Concentration: Estimated 0.4–0.9% (near-end of INCI list)
- Source: Plant-derived (wheat and corn)
- Evidence: Extensively studied; multiple RCTs show improvement in skin hydration, elasticity, and reduction of fine lines
Polyglutamic Acid ~0.05–0.2%Promising
A natural high-molecular-weight amino acid polymer derived from soybeans (fermented natto). Polyglutamic Acid (PGA) forms a moisture-retaining film on the skin surface and is claimed to hold more moisture than Hyaluronic Acid at similar concentrations. It also inhibits hyaluronidase, the enzyme that breaks down HA — effectively extending HA's action.
- Function: Humectant, film-forming moisture barrier, HA-potentiator
- Concentration: Estimated 0.05–0.20% (last ingredient in INCI)
- Source: Soybean-derived (plant origin)
- Unique Benefit: Inhibits hyaluronidase, extending the hydration duration of Sodium Hyaluronate in the formula
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil ~1–3%Proven
Jojoba "oil" is technically a liquid wax ester that closely mimics the skin's natural sebum. It provides excellent emolliency without feeling greasy, helps regulate oil production, and is renowned for its non-comedogenic profile. It also has mild antimicrobial properties.
- Function: Emollient, occlusive, skin-feel enhancer
- Comedogenic Rating: 2/5 — Very low risk
- Sebum Mimicry: Structurally similar to skin's natural wax esters — excellent skin compatibility
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) ~0.1–0.5%Proven
Pure Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) serves as both an antioxidant protecting the formula from oxidation and a skin conditioner that helps neutralize free radicals caused by UV exposure and pollution. It also helps stabilize the oils in the formulation.
- Function: Antioxidant, skin conditioner, formula stabilizer
- Benefit: Protects skin lipids from peroxidation; supports barrier repair
- Synergy: Works well alongside Sunflower Seed Oil to extend shelf life and enhance skin benefits
Glyceryl Caprylate ~0.5–1%Promising
A multifunctional ingredient derived from glycerin and caprylic acid (from coconut or palm). It acts as an emollient, a mild antimicrobial preservative booster, and helps condition the skin. It contributes to the formula's clean preservation system without harsh conventional preservatives.
- Function: Emollient, preservative booster, antimicrobial
- Preservation: Works with O-Cymen-5-Ol and 1,2-Hexanediol as part of a paraben-free preservation system
16 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Glycerin, Betaine, Methylpropanediol, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, 1,2-Hexanediol, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Carbomer, Glyceryl Caprylate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Phytate, O-Cymen-5-Ol, Tocopherol, Polyglutamic Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the final step of your PM routine as a sleeping mask, or as the last skincare step in your AM routine (rinse after 10 minutes). Do NOT apply sunscreen over the mask at night.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Start with a clean face — double cleanse if you've been wearing makeup or SPF. The mask performs best on skin that is free of impurities and excess sebum.
Apply Your Serums & Treatments
Layer any actives (Vitamin C, niacinamide, peptides) before the mask. The gel-cream formula sits best as the final layer and should not be applied under actives.
Apply the Mask Generously
Use your fingertips or a spatula to apply a thick, even layer across the entire face and neck. For overnight use, apply liberally. For day use, a slightly thinner layer works well.
Choose Your Mode
Overnight Mask: Leave on as you sleep — no rinsing needed. Wake up to softer, more hydrated skin.10-Minute Express Mask: Leave on for 10 minutes in the morning, then gently remove any excess with a cotton pad or soft cloth. Follow with SPF.
Frequency
Safe for daily use — both as a morning rinse-off mask and as a nightly sleeping mask. Can be used every single night or alternated with richer creams depending on your skin's needs.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, dehydrated, or normal skin craving intense moisture
- You want a fragrance-free, clean-beauty option
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe option
- You prefer a dual-purpose mask that works both day and night
- You have sensitive or acne-prone skin and need a simple formula
- You're on a budget but want clinical-grade hydration
- You're vegan and want cruelty-free skincare
Consider alternatives if:
- You need anti-aging actives like retinol, AHAs, or peptides
- You want to address hyperpigmentation or dark spots
- You have very oily skin and prefer a matte finish product
- You need SPF protection (this is not a sunscreen)
- You want a richer, barrier-repairing cream with ceramides
- You're looking for a brightening or firming treatment beyond basic hydration
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis mask was practically made for dry skin. The triple-humectant combo (glycerin, betaine, HA + PGA) provides lasting moisture relief, and sunflower and jojoba oils help seal hydration in overnight.
Clinically tested and confirmed suitable for normal skin. Works beautifully as a regular maintenance mask to keep skin balanced, smooth, and plump.
The lightweight gel-cream texture absorbs well and hydrates dry areas without overloading oilier zones. The 10-minute express use option is ideal for combination skin types.
Fragrance-free, preservative-system is clean (no parabens, no phenoxyethanol), and the formula scores low on irritation potential. Patch test recommended for highly reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic formula (rating 1/5), fungal acne safe, and free from pore-clogging ingredients. The simple 16-ingredient list minimizes breakout risk. May be too occlusive for very oily/acne skin overnight.
The gel-cream texture is lighter than traditional sleeping masks, but still has an emollient oil base that may feel heavy for very oily skin. Best used as the 10-minute day mask rather than overnight.
Results timeline
28 DAYSImmediate Hydration & Softness
Skin feels noticeably softer and more comfortable from the very first overnight application. The multiple humectants begin drawing moisture into the skin within hours, with the occlusive oil layer sealing it in through the night.
100% felt moisturized after 1st use55% More Hydrated Skin
Clinically measured on 33 volunteers — skin hydration increases by 55% after a single 8-hour overnight application. Users report waking up with plumper, smoother-feeling skin and a healthy glow.
55% hydration increase (clinical study)Consistent Smoothness & Barrier Improvement
With regular nightly use, users notice progressively softer texture, reduced tightness, and improved skin smoothness. The barrier-repairing oils (sunflower, jojoba) begin to show cumulative effects on rough or flaky patches.
~80% report texture improvementRadiance, Firmness & Fatigue Reduction
After one month of daily use, clinical testing on 21 volunteers showed a 41% increase in radiance, 30% improvement in skin firmness, and 44% reduction in visible signs of fatigue. These long-term benefits are attributed to consistent hydration and barrier support.
41% more radiant · 30% firmer · 44% less fatigueRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Fragrance-free — minimal irritation risk
- Versatile: works as overnight mask or 10-min day mask
- Clean formula: no parabens, sulfates, mineral oil
- Vegan and 93% natural-origin ingredients
- Non-comedogenic and fungal acne safe
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Affordable price point for clinical performance
- Clinically proven: 55% more hydrated after 8 hours
- Non-greasy lightweight gel-cream texture
- Eco-friendlier packaging with recycled plastic
Criticized
- Low concentration of key actives (PGA at ~0.05–0.2%)
- No ceramides or advanced barrier-repair ingredients
- No anti-aging actives (retinol, peptides, niacinamide)
- May feel too emollient/occlusive for very oily skin overnight
- Small 50 mL jar may not last long with generous application
- WhatsinMyJar science score: 37/100 for promise fulfillment
- No pump or airless packaging — pot may harbor bacteria
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESAlso built around hyaluronic acid as the hero ingredient, fragrance-free, lightweight gel-cream texture, and non-comedogenic. Works as both a moisturizer and can be layered thickly as an overnight treatment. Widely available and dermatologist-recommended.
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream contains hyaluronic acid and ceramides for barrier repair — arguably more comprehensive formula. Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and dermatologist recommended. Lacks PGA but adds ceramides the Sephora mask is missing.
Simple, affordable gel moisturizer with hyaluronic acid as the hero. Fragrance-free and lightweight. Can be used as an overnight mask with a thick application. Lacks Polyglutamic Acid and emollient oils but is extremely affordable and beginner-friendly.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open-jar symbol (12M) on the packaging. Discard if color, texture, or smell changes significantly.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Room temperature storage is ideal (15–25°C / 59–77°F). Can be refrigerated for an extra soothing, cooling effect on application.
Jar format (50 mL pot) with a screw-top lid. The jar is partly made from recycled plastic, and the outer box is printed with vegetable-based inks for a more eco-conscious footprint. Use a spatula to minimize contamination.
Yes — the 50 mL jar is at the TSA/liquid limit threshold. Check your airline's carry-on liquid rules. The compact size fits easily in a toiletry bag for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — the Sephora Collection Overnight Hydrating Mask is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula does not contain any of the commonly restricted ingredients: no retinoids (retinol, retinyl palmitate), no salicylic acid, no hydroquinone, no chemical sunscreens (oxybenzone, avobenzone), and no essential oils linked to uterine stimulation. All 16 ingredients — including Hyaluronic Acid and Polyglutamic Acid — are generally regarded as safe during pregnancy. As always, consult with your OB-GYN or midwife if you have any specific concerns.
Yes — the Sephora Collection Overnight Hydrating Mask is fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) safe. The formula does not contain fermented ingredients, esters (C11–C24 fatty acid esters), polysorbates, or other compounds known to feed the Malassezia yeast. Both sunflower seed oil and jojoba seed oil included in this formula are composed primarily of linoleic and eicosenoic acids respectively, which are not problematic for Malassezia. Always cross-check your full routine if you're managing active fungal acne.
Yes — this mask pairs well with actives as the final sealing step in your routine. Apply your actives (Vitamin C serum, niacinamide, retinol, AHAs, BHAs) first, allow them to absorb, and then layer the mask on top as the last step. The mask's humectants and emollient oils will help soothe and protect the skin after potential irritation from actives. Because the mask does not contain acids, retinoids, or other reactives itself, there are no known interaction concerns. When using retinol or strong exfoliants, the mask can actually serve as a helpful buffer to minimize dryness and sensitivity.
The mask is clinically tested for normal, dry, and combination skin types — and is also well-suited for sensitive skin due to its fragrance-free, low-irritation formula. Dry and dehydrated skin types get the most benefit from daily overnight use. Combination skin benefits from the flexible use format (10-minute day mask or overnight). Sensitive skin can use it confidently given the clean, minimal ingredient list. Oily skin types may find the oil-containing formula slightly heavy for overnight wear but can enjoy the 10-minute express format. It's one of the rare overnight masks confirmed suitable across all skin types in clinical testing.
Results begin immediately — 100% of volunteers in a satisfaction survey reported feeling moisturized after the very first use. Clinical testing showed a 55% increase in skin hydration after 8 hours (one overnight application). With consistent daily use over 28 days, clinical results demonstrate: 41% more radiant skin, 30% improved firmness, and a 44% reduction in visible signs of fatigue. For best cumulative results, use it nightly as a sleeping mask for at least 2–4 weeks.
The mask is always the final step of your skincare routine. In your PM routine: cleanse → toner → essence → serum/actives → eye cream → Overnight Hydrating Mask (last step, no rinse). In your AM routine: cleanse → toner → serum → mask (leave on for 10 minutes) → rinse → SPF. Do not apply other moisturizers or SPF over the mask when using it overnight. In the morning express format, always follow removal with sunscreen.
No — the Sephora Collection Overnight Hydrating Mask has a comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5, making it very unlikely to clog pores. The two plant oils in the formula — sunflower seed oil (comedogenic rating 0) and jojoba seed oil (comedogenic rating 2) — are both considered non-comedogenic or very low risk. The formula contains no known heavy pore-clogging ingredients such as coconut oil, cocoa butter, or isopropyl myristate. Multiple independent reviewers and community users with acne-prone skin report no breakouts from this product.
The Sephora Collection Overnight Hydrating Mask has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. This is indicated by the open-jar symbol with "12M" on the packaging. The preservation system (Glyceryl Caprylate, O-Cymen-5-Ol, 1,2-Hexanediol) is designed to maintain product integrity for up to 12 months once opened. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use a clean spatula instead of fingers to scoop product and extend shelf life. Discard if you notice any change in texture, color, or odor before the 12-month mark.
Verdict: The Sephora Collection Overnight Hydrating Mask is a genuinely impressive budget-friendly sleeping mask that punches above its price point in the categories that matter most for sensitive and pregnancy-safe skincare. Its fragrance-free, 93% natural-origin formula with dual Hyaluronic and Polyglutamic Acid is backed by clinical data — 55% more hydration after 8 hours is a significant result. The versatile two-way use format adds real value for daily routines.Where it falls short: the active ingredient concentrations are on the lower end (PGA at ~0.05–0.2%), there are no ceramides or advanced barrier repair ingredients, and the pot packaging is less hygienic than a pump or airless dispenser. It's an outstanding choice for normal-to-dry, sensitive, and acne-prone skin seeking a clean, affordable, and pregnancy-safe hydration treatment — but those needing anti-aging actives or deeper barrier repair should layer a more targeted serum underneath.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil
Emollient, Masking, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Methylpropanediol
Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6
Viscosity Controlling, Emulsion Stabilising
|
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil
Emollient, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|







