Both substrates can carry a good mask. They fail in different ways, and the choice usually comes down to what the product claims on the front of the pouch.
Hydrogel cotton
Gel sheets swell as they absorb, hold large volumes and stay in place without slipping. They feel cool, release moisture slowly and suit soothing, hydrating or after-sun positioning. They are also heavier and cost more per unit.
Spunlace
Light, breathable and cost-effective. Modern spunlace such as Ancell closes much of the retention gap, and the absence of a gel layer means the sheet never feels heavy. It suits daily masks, multi-piece packs and price-sensitive lines.
A simple rule
- Premium, treatment-led, cooling → hydrogel.
- Daily, high-volume, breathable → spunlace.
- Both → keep one supplier who can quote both, and compare on landed cost rather than unit price.