Hydrogel Mask is a skincare product characterized by a polymer network structure that can hold a large amount of water or nutrients. It has a cool, flexible, jelly-like feel.

1. Types of Hydrogel Masks

In the cosmetics industry, they are mainly divided into two types:

• Powder-to-Gel (Hydro Jelly Mask): A powder that must be mixed with water. Once applied, it sets into a thick, soft jelly sheet that can be peeled off. These are typically Alginate-based.
• Liquid-to-Film (Peel-off Mask): A liquid or gel that is applied to the skin. As the water evaporates, it forms a thin film that can be peeled off. These are typically PVA (Polyvinyl Alcohol) or Polyurethane-based.

2. Can it be reformed after use?

Answer: No. Once a hydrogel mask has set or been used, it cannot be mixed with water to return to its original liquid/powder state for the following reasons:

• Irreversible Cross-linking (in Hydro Jelly types): These masks (e.g., Alginate) undergo a chemical reaction between the polymer and ions (like Calcium Sulfate), creating a strong, permanent "egg-box" structure. Adding water cannot break these bonds to revert it to a liquid.
• Film Formation (in Peel-off types): For PVA-based masks, the solvent (water) evaporates, causing polymer molecules to pack tightly into a film. While PVA is water-soluble, once it has formed a dry film, it is very difficult to return it to a smooth, homogeneous gel without high heat or intense agitation, making it impractical for reuse.

3. Recommended Gelling Agents for Peeling Hydrogel Masks

Depending on whether you mean "Peel-off" (sheet) or "Peeling" (exfoliating/rubbing), here are the recommendations:

For Peel-off Sheet Masks (Hydro Jelly / Film-forming):

• Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA 217): The primary film-former for liquid peel-off masks. It provides a flexible film that is easy to peel.
• Hydro Jelly Mask, ready-made mask powder: A ready-to-use powder base containing Algin and Calcium Sulfate. It sets into a thick, professional hydrogel texture when mixed with water.
• ClearFlexPeel Film™: A Polyurethane-based film former that creates a highly transparent, flexible film that doesn't feel tight on the skin.

For Exfoliating/Rubbing Peeling Gels:

• Carbomer Dead-Skin: Specifically designed for "scurf gels." It creates a balling effect when rubbed on the skin to help remove dead skin cells.

For Adjusting Viscosity (Thickeners):

• Carbomer Ultrez 30: Excellent for thickening the liquid phase with high clarity and superior electrolyte tolerance.
• Carbomer 1342: Provides a "long-flow" texture and is also resistant to electrolytes.