Sleeping Mask
Sleeping Mask
Product Description
Product overview
A deeply hydrating overnight gel-cream mask enriched with ceramide, hyaluronic acid, panthenol, and gentle PHA to replenish moisture, strengthen the skin barrier, and leave skin soft, smooth, and dewy by morning. Developed with 50 years of Eastern medicine expertise from the Pyunkang Korean Medicine Clinic.
Barrier Repair Overnight
Ceramide NP and phytosphingosine work together to rebuild and reinforce the skin's moisture barrier while you sleep, reducing transepidermal water loss.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBarrier Repair Overnight
Ceramide NP and phytosphingosine work together to rebuild and reinforce the skin's moisture barrier while you sleep, reducing transepidermal water loss.
Multi-Layer Hydration
Combines humectants (hyaluronic acid, glycerin, trehalose, panthenol) with occlusive silicones to attract and lock in moisture at multiple skin levels.
Gentle Exfoliation with PHA
Gluconolactone (PHA) provides mild surface exfoliation with larger molecules than AHA/BHA, making it suitable for sensitive skin while smoothing texture.
Eastern Medicine Botanicals
Astragalus root extract and honeysuckle flower extract deliver antioxidant protection and soothing properties rooted in traditional Korean herbal medicine.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, a botanical relative of salicylic acid. While present in low concentration and not equivalent to pure BHA, consult your OB-GYN before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding as a precaution.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains several FA triggers including Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Polyglyceryl-10 Dilaurate, and Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil. Avoid if you are prone to fungal acne.
Dermatologically tested with zero irritation result. Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and paraben-free. All ingredients are rated within EWG safety grades. Formulated by a Korean medicine clinic specializing in atopic skin.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. The base formula relies on lightweight silicones and humectants. Higher comedogenic ingredients (Ethylhexyl Palmitate) appear in very low concentrations near the end of the INCI list.
Can be used as a soothing, hydrating layer over retinol treatments. The ceramides and panthenol may help buffer retinol irritation. Apply retinol first, wait 10–15 minutes, then apply the sleeping mask.
Safe to use alongside AHA, BHA, and vitamin C serums. Apply actives first, allow absorption, then layer this sleeping mask on top as the final occlusive step. The PHA content is gentle and unlikely to cause over-exfoliation.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCeramide NP ~0.1%Proven
A skin-identical lipid naturally found in the stratum corneum. Ceramide NP helps restore the skin's moisture barrier by filling gaps between skin cells, reducing water loss and protecting against environmental irritants.
- Function: Barrier repair, moisture retention, skin-identical lipid
- Evidence: Extensive clinical research supports ceramides for restoring compromised skin barriers and improving hydration in dry, eczema-prone skin
- Synergy: Works in tandem with Phytosphingosine and Hydrogenated Lecithin for optimal barrier support
Sodium Hyaluronate 0.15–0.30%Proven
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid, known for its ability to bind up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Smaller molecular size than HA allows better skin penetration for plumping and hydrating the upper skin layers.
- Function: Humectant, plumping, hydration booster
- Evidence: Well-documented moisture-binding capacity; widely studied for improving skin hydration and reducing fine lines
- Form: Sodium hyaluronate is more stable and easier to formulate than free hyaluronic acid
Panthenol (Provitamin B5) 0.40–0.60%Proven
A provitamin that converts to vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) in the skin. Known for its moisturizing, wound-healing, and anti-inflammatory properties. Helps repair the skin barrier and reduce redness.
- Function: Moisturizer, anti-inflammatory, barrier repair
- Evidence: Clinical studies show panthenol improves skin hydration, elasticity, and wound healing at concentrations as low as 0.5%
- Bonus: Penetrates skin effectively and provides long-lasting hydration
Trehalose 1.30–1.60%Promising
A natural sugar with exceptional water-retention abilities. Functions as a humectant while also protecting skin cells from desiccation stress. Found naturally in plants and organisms that survive extreme drought.
- Function: Humectant, cell protectant, moisture retention
- Evidence: Research shows trehalose stabilizes cell membranes and protects proteins from denaturation under stress conditions
Gluconolactone (PHA) LowProven
A polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that provides gentle surface exfoliation. Has a larger molecular size than AHAs, so it works more gently and is better tolerated by sensitive skin. Also functions as a humectant and antioxidant.
- Function: Gentle exfoliant, humectant, antioxidant
- Evidence: Studies demonstrate PHAs provide comparable exfoliation to AHAs with significantly less irritation, making them ideal for sensitive skin types
- Note: In this formula, the concentration is supportive rather than treatment-level
Astragalus Membranaceus Root Extract Low-MidPromising
A key herb in traditional Eastern medicine also known as milkvetch root. Rich in polysaccharides, saponins, and flavonoids, providing antioxidant and skin-conditioning benefits. Central to the Pyunkang Yul formulation philosophy.
- Function: Antioxidant, skin conditioning, soothing
- Evidence: Used extensively in Korean herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties
Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract LowPromising
A natural extract from the white willow tree containing salicin, a botanical precursor to salicylic acid. Provides mild soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, along with potential light pore-clarifying benefits.
- Function: Soothing, anti-inflammatory, mild skin smoothing
- Evidence: While salicin can theoretically convert to salicylic acid, the extract is typically not concentrated enough to provide true BHA-level exfoliation
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (Licorice) LowProven
Derived from licorice root, this ingredient is a potent anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing agent. Helps calm redness and irritation while providing gentle brightening effects over time.
- Function: Anti-inflammatory, soothing, skin calming
- Evidence: Well-studied for anti-inflammatory properties; widely used in formulas for sensitive and reactive skin
38 ingredients
Purified Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Cyclohexasiloxane, Caprylyl Methicone, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Hydroxyacetophenone, Trehalose, Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Carbomer, Isododecane, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate/VP Copolymer, Dicaprylyl Ether, Sodium Methyl Stearoyl Taurate, Panthenol, Astragalus Membranaceus Root Extract, Tromethamine, Salix Alba Bark Extract, Dipropylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Polyglyceryl-10 Dilaurate, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Disodium EDTA, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Gluconolactone, Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, 1,2-Hexanediol, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Pentylene Glycol, Ceramide NP, Caprylyl Glycol, Phytosphingosine, Lonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the final step of your PM routine. Can replace your night cream or be layered on top of it for extra hydration. Use 2–3 times per week or nightly depending on your skin's needs.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
Complete your evening skincare routine (cleanser, toner, serum, moisturizer). Pat skin until mostly absorbed.
Apply Generously
Take a generous amount and spread evenly across your face, avoiding the immediate eye area. Focus extra product on dry patches or areas needing repair.
Pat & Absorb
Gently pat (do not rub) the mask into your skin until it feels absorbed. Wait about 30 minutes before going to sleep to allow the product to set.
Rinse in the Morning
Wash your face with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser the next morning. Follow with your daytime skincare routine and sunscreen.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- Your skin feels dehydrated, dull, or tight in the morning
- You want a lightweight sleeping mask that absorbs without feeling heavy
- You have sensitive skin and need fragrance-free, minimal-irritant products
- You want to strengthen your moisture barrier overnight
- You prefer gel-cream textures over heavy, rich creams
- You want gentle exfoliation from PHA without irritation
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) — this formula contains triggers
- You need intense richness for very dry or mature skin in winter
- You want a brightening sleeping mask with niacinamide or vitamin C
- You prefer wash-off mask formats rather than leave-on overnight
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor first due to willow bark)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight gel-cream absorbs well without excessive residue. Some users with very oily skin find it slightly dewy, but most appreciate the non-greasy finish.
Provides solid hydration boost overnight. Very dry skin types may want to layer a richer cream underneath for extra nourishment, especially in winter.
Ideal match — hydrates dry zones without overloading the T-zone. The gel-cream texture balances perfectly across different facial areas.
Fragrance-free, dermatologically tested with zero irritation result. Ceramide and panthenol help calm reactive skin. Excellent for post-procedure recovery.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5) is positive, but not fungal acne safe. Non-fungal acne-prone skin should be fine. Patch test recommended if breakout-prone.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Hydration Boost
Wake up with noticeably softer, plumper, and more hydrated skin. Dry patches feel smoother and the complexion appears refreshed and dewy.
85% noticed overnight improvementImproved Skin Texture
Regular use smooths overall skin texture thanks to gentle PHA exfoliation. Morning dryness and tightness decrease significantly. Skin feels calmer and less reactive.
70% reported smoother textureStrengthened Moisture Barrier
Ceramide and phytosphingosine rebuild the skin barrier over time. Skin retains moisture better throughout the day, and sensitivity to environmental stressors reduces.
65% noticed reduced sensitivitySustained Radiance & Resilience
Long-term use leads to a more resilient, evenly toned complexion. Skin maintains hydration balance and appears healthier overall, with improved morning glow.
60% reported lasting glowRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Lightweight gel-cream texture absorbs quickly without greasiness
- Completely fragrance-free — no artificial scent at all
- Generous 120ml tube offers excellent value per ml
- Sensitive skin tested with zero irritation result
- Visible morning hydration and plumpness after first use
- Contains ceramide, HA, and panthenol — proven hydrating trio
- Suitable for use year-round, especially refreshing in summer
- Works well layered over retinol or other active treatments
Criticized
- Not moisturizing enough for very dry skin in harsh winters
- Not fungal acne (Malassezia) safe — contains multiple triggers
- Can feel slightly sticky immediately after application
- Gel texture doesn't feel like a traditional "mask" to some users
- PHA/willow bark concentrations too low for noticeable exfoliation
- Tube packaging makes it hard to use every last drop
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESRice extract-based overnight mask with niacinamide for added brightening. Similar lightweight gel texture and overnight hydration concept. Less focused on barrier repair but adds brightening benefits.
Contains 5 types of hyaluronic acid for deep hydration. More HA-focused than Pyunkang Yul but lacks ceramides and PHA. Lighter, more watery texture. Good for those wanting pure hydration.
Ultra-gentle formula with panthenol and madecassoside for sensitive skin. Minimal ingredients, pH 5.5. No PHA or ceramides, but stronger focus on calming irritation. Great for very reactive skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration is optional but can enhance the cooling sensation upon application.
Squeezable tube with screw-on cap. Hygienic design minimizes contamination from finger contact.
Yes — 120ml exceeds carry-on liquid limits (100ml), so check luggage or decant into a smaller container for air travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. The formula contains Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, a botanical relative of salicylic acid. While the concentration is very low and it is not equivalent to pure salicylic acid, most dermatologists recommend erring on the side of caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before incorporating this product into your routine. There are no retinoids, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens in the formula.
No, this sleeping mask is not fungal acne safe. It contains several known Malassezia triggers including Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Polyglyceryl-10 Dilaurate, and Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil. If you have fungal acne or are prone to Malassezia folliculitis, consider alternatives like the Etude SoonJung Cica Sleeping Pack or a FA-safe moisturizer instead.
Yes, this sleeping mask works well with all major actives. Apply your retinol, vitamin C serum, or AHA/BHA treatment first and allow it to absorb for 10–15 minutes. Then layer the sleeping mask on top as the final occlusive step. The ceramides and panthenol in the mask can actually help buffer potential irritation from active ingredients, making it an excellent companion for retinol users.
This sleeping mask is most suitable for combination and sensitive skin types. Its lightweight gel-cream texture provides balanced hydration without heaviness. It also works well for normal skin and mildly dry skin. Very dry skin types may need to layer a richer cream underneath, while very oily skin types might find it slightly dewy. Its fragrance-free, zero-irritation tested formula makes it particularly appealing for sensitive and reactive skin.
You can expect immediate hydration and a plumper, dewier complexion from the very first morning. Improved skin texture from the gentle PHA typically becomes noticeable within 1–2 weeks of regular use. Barrier strengthening from ceramides and phytosphingosine takes 3–4 weeks of consistent nightly application. For sustained radiance and resilience improvements, continue use for 2+ months.
Apply as the very last step of your evening skincare routine. The order is: Cleanser → Toner → Serum/Ampoule → Eye Cream → Moisturizer → Sleeping Mask. You can also skip your regular night cream and use this as a moisturizer replacement if your skin does not require heavy moisture. Apply about 30 minutes before bed to allow absorption.
The overall comedogenic rating is 1/5 (very low risk). The base formula relies on lightweight silicones and water-based humectants that are unlikely to clog pores. While Ethylhexyl Palmitate (comedogenic rating 4) is present, it appears near the very end of the ingredient list, meaning its concentration is minimal. Most users — including those with oily skin — report no breakouts. However, if you are highly acne-prone, a patch test is always recommended.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy. The 120ml tube typically lasts 2–3 months with nightly use, or 4–6 months with 2–3 times per week use. Store in a cool, dry place and make sure the cap is closed tightly after each use to prevent contamination and ingredient degradation.
Verdict: The Pyunkang Yul Sleeping Mask is an excellent value-for-money overnight hydration treatment that delivers on its core promise of barrier repair and deep moisturization. Its fragrance-free, minimal-irritant formula backed by ceramide, hyaluronic acid, and panthenol makes it a standout choice for sensitive and combination skin types. The generous 120ml size and affordable price point make it one of the best cost-per-ml sleeping masks in K-beauty. While it falls short for fungal acne sufferers and may not be rich enough for very dry climates, it earns strong marks for its gentle yet effective overnight performance. A reliable, no-fuss sleeping mask from a brand rooted in dermatological care.
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
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Cyclohexasiloxane
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylyl Methicone
Skin Conditioning
|
|






