Seven jelly mask mistakes, and how to fix them

Most jelly masks that go wrong go wrong in the same few ways. Every one of them is easy to fix next time.

1. It set in the bowl

You mixed too slowly or used warm water. Use cool water, stir for about 30 seconds until smooth, and start brushing straight away.

2. It tore when you peeled it

The layer was too thin. Aim for about 3 to 5 mm, thick enough that you can't see your skin through it.

3. It's lumpy

Add the powder to the water rather than the other way round, and use roughly equal amounts by weight: about 25 g of each.

4. It's stuck in your eyebrows or hairline

The jelly doesn't stick to skin but it grips hair. Tie your hair back and brush it on around your brows, not over them.

5. You peeled it too early

If it's still tacky, it isn't set. Give it the full 15 to 20 minutes. The timer on the shop page helps.

6. You peeled from the forehead down

Start at the jaw, where the edge is easiest to lift, and peel upward. It comes away more cleanly in one piece.

7. You mixed a whole jar's worth

Mix one mask at a time. Leftover jelly can't be saved once it sets.

The full routine is in how to use a jelly mask.