Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you might want to know about Masking.
What is Masking?
Masking is a face mask timer app for iPhone. It times your face mask sessions based on mask type and skin sensitivity, with a Live Activity countdown on your Lock Screen, AlarmKit alerts that work even on silent, and automatic session tracking via Calendar.
Is Masking free?
Masking is free to download and use. There is an optional in-app purchase to unlock additional features.
What mask types does Masking support?
Six types: Sheet masks (fabric, bio-cellulose, hydrogel), Clay masks (kaolin, bentonite), Gel masks (water-based polymer), Peel-off masks (PVA film), Modeling masks (alginate rubber), and Exfoliating masks (AHA, BHA, enzyme). Each type has its own timing based on how the material interacts with your skin over time, not what the brand prints on the box. See our complete timing guide for the research behind each duration.
Why does Masking time by mask type instead of by brand?
Because the material determines when a mask goes from helping to harming. Clay absorbs moisture after it dries. Sheet fabric re-absorbs serum once depleted. AHAs continue dissolving skin cells the longer they sit. The brand might vary, but the material science does not. Timing by material is the only approach that reliably protects your skin.
Does Masking work for sensitive skin?
Yes. Toggle the sensitive skin setting and all mask durations automatically reduce by up to one-third. Masking also shows a warning before every peel-off session, since the adhesive pull can cause micro-tears on reactive skin.
What face masks should sensitive skin avoid?
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that sensitive skin avoid peel-off masks (the peeling action can cause micro-tears), exfoliating masks with high-concentration AHAs or BHAs, and any mask containing fragrance, essential oils, or physical exfoliant particles. Fragrance-free gel masks and fragrance-free sheet masks are the safest options. Read more in our sensitive skin guide.
Is it better to leave a mask on longer or mask more often?
More often at the correct duration, not longer. Research shows that consistent short applications improve skin barrier function over time, while prolonged single sessions increase transepidermal water loss and irritation. A clay mask left on for 30 minutes does not give double the benefit of 15 minutes. It actively dehydrates your skin. Three well-timed sessions per week are far more effective than one marathon session. Masking tracks your intervals and reminds you when it is time for the next one.
How does the timer work?
Select your mask type and tap Start. Masking shows a Live Activity countdown on your Lock Screen with calming Liquid Glass bubble animations while you wait. When the timer ends, AlarmKit sounds an alert that works even if your phone is on silent or you have fallen asleep.
What happens when my session ends?
You get an AlarmKit alert so you never over-mask. The session is automatically logged to your Calendar, and Masking schedules a reminder for your next session based on the recommended interval for that mask type and when you last masked.
Can I fall asleep with a face mask on?
Falling asleep is one of the most common causes of over-masking. A sheet mask left on for 40+ minutes can reverse hydration and cause dryness. A clay mask left until cracked pulls moisture from the epidermis. Masking uses AlarmKit to wake you when your session ends. No more anxiety about dozing off during your skincare routine.
Does Masking track my data or show ads?
No. Zero analytics, zero tracking, zero ads. Your skincare data stays on your device and in your iCloud Calendar. Your routine is yours alone.
Is Masking available on Android?
Masking is currently iPhone only (iOS). There are no immediate plans for Android, but feel free to email [email protected] to express interest.
How are the mask durations determined?
They are grounded in published dermatological research and twenty years of personal masking experience. Key sources include a 2024 study on sheet mask duration (Journal of Tissue Viability), a 2023 clinical study on clay mask efficacy (Skin Research and Technology), a 2018 review on AHA safety (Molecules), and guidance from the American Academy of Dermatology. The app creator over-masked for years and damaged her skin barrier. Masking exists so others do not have to learn the hard way. Read our story for the full background.
Who made Masking?
Masking is made by Lively Light, a small creative studio founded by YG and Shaun. You can reach us anytime at [email protected].
Ready to mask smarter?
