If you've spent any time on skincare TikTok, you've probably seen a colorful jelly mask peeled off in one satisfying piece. That's a Hydrojelly mask — and the brand that started it, Esthemax, is one of the professional lines our esthetician students train with at Beyond 21st Century Beauty Academy in Santa Fe Springs. Here's what a Hydrojelly mask actually is and why estheticians reach for it.
What is a Hydrojelly mask?
A Hydrojelly mask is a professional peel-off treatment mask made primarily from alginate, a gelling agent derived from brown seaweed. It comes as a powder that the esthetician mixes with water right before the treatment. Mixed, it goes on as a smooth jelly; over about 15 to 20 minutes it sets into a flexible, rubber-like layer that peels off cleanly in one piece.
How it works on the skin
As the mask sets, it forms a seal over the skin. That seal does two things: it drives the active ingredients underneath down into the skin, and it locks in moisture instead of letting it evaporate. Estheticians often apply a serum first and then seal it under the Hydrojelly, so the mask is really a delivery system as much as a treatment on its own.
Who makes it — and why "original" matters
Esthemax is a Korean professional skincare brand, founded in Korea in 1985, and it's credited as the inventor of the Hydrojelly mask. Its U.S. operation is based in Torrance, just down the freeway from us. Korean skincare ("K-beauty") set much of the global standard for gentle, results-driven treatments, so training on an original Korean professional line gives students real, current-industry experience.
Why estheticians use Hydrojelly masks
- Customizable — different formulas target hydration, brightening, calming, and more
- Clean removal — peels off in one piece with little residue and easy cleanup
- Great client experience — the cooling, peel-off finish is memorable and very shareable
- Add-on revenue — a quick, high-margin upgrade to a facial service
Learning treatment masking at Beyond
Mask treatments like these are core esthetician skills — and you learn them hands-on, not just from a textbook. Beyond's 600-hour esthetician program covers facials, masking, product chemistry, and client care, with total tuition of $11,206.50 including your kit. It's the only Beyond program offered both day and evening, and it's eligible for federal financial aid (FAFSA) for students who qualify. Students practice on real clients in our student spa before they ever sit a board exam.
Come see the school
Curious what esthetician training actually looks like day to day? Beyond has trained licensed professionals in Santa Fe Springs since 1997 — 2,100+ graduates and NACCAS accredited. Explore all of our programs, book a school tour, or call (562) 404-6193.
