Play around!
This way there is no need to duplicate layers, and if you save and close the file and come back deciding you want to change the effect, you just have to either modify the existing mask, or delete the mask all together and start over.. The action will work on any layer that has a transparent background, but works best on things like type, and solid graphical elements. --- Watch the video overview and how-to here! Tip: If you want to create even more aggressive / unique effects, apply the layer mask to the artwork, then run the action over it again.