A good face mask can treat your skin like its never been treated before, delivering potent ingredients to boost hydration, detox your pores, or soothe irritation. Masks come in various formulations, from clay masks (Kourtney Kardashian swears by Aztec Secret—and we do too) and sheet masks to pricey LED light therapy masks. And if you want to reap the benefits of face masks while staying on a budget? Head to the drugstore skincare section, where you can find an option for every concern at a price that doesn't blow you away.
"It is possible to get quality skincare at an affordable price—you just need to know what you are addressing in your skin and the ingredients you will need to get results," says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Purvisha J. Patel, M.D. "Drugstore face masks are generally more affordable compared to high-end options. Set a budget that you're comfortable with and look for masks within that price range."
Since there are so many drugstore face masks on the market, we asked board-certified dermatologists to share their favorites—and the benefits they boast. We also threw in a couple of beauty editors' tried-and-true selections. Screenshot this list before your next drugstore run and let the at-home spa nights begin.
What to Look For in a Drugstore Face Mask
- Skin Type
The first factor to consider when shopping for a drugstore face mask is your skin type. Having oily, dry, combination, or sensitive skin impacts what kind of formula you should be looking for to maximize results and minimize potential side effects. (For example, if you have sensitive skin and you use a mask meant for oil control, you may experience skin dehydration and flaking.)
"Every face mask is not universal for all skin types, so be careful when choosing," says aesthetician Erica Marie Gatt. If you need help deciding, the best person to ask is a professional, who will "provide you with a clear understanding of what would work for your skin and what could potentially cause redness, inflammation or breakouts." And always, always patch test.
- Ingredients
"When choosing a face mask for skin health, it’s important to be wary of potential allergens and irritants in the ingredients," notes Dr. Azza Halim, M.D. who specializes in anti-aging and aesthetic medicine. "Look out for harsh chemicals, fragrances, and preservatives that could cause irritation or allergic reactions."
As for ingredients you actually want? Gatt was kind enough to give us a cheat sheet. For dry skin, she recommends a mask with hyaluronic acid. Vitamin C is for an uneven skin tone, charcoal for congestion, peptides, to plump, and retinol if you're going for a youthful appearance.
- Texture
Dr. Patel also advises you to "consider the texture and application process of the face mask." Some come in sheet form while others are creamy or gel-like—and there's nothing worse than thinking you're getting a sheet and realizing you have to apply the goop manually.
"Choose a texture that you find comfortable and easy to apply. Additionally, consider the time required for the mask to work its magic," she says. "Some masks can be left on for a few minutes, while others may need to be left on overnight."
The Best Drugstore Face Masks
- The Best Drugstore Face Mask Overall: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Hydrogel Mask
- The Best Drugstore Face Mask for Oily Skin: Cetaphil Pro Dermacontrol Purifying Clay Mask
- The Best Drugstore Face Mask for Dry Skin: Burt's Bees Hydrating Overnight Mask
- The Best Drugstore Face Mask for Acne-Prone Skin: Freeman Feeling Beautiful Polishing Mask Charcoal & Black Sugar
- The Best Brightening Drugstore Face Mask: Formula 10.0.6 Get Your Glow On Skin Brightening Peel Mask
"This mask is super effective for moisturizing dry skin types—and it’s cheap," says Dr. Adarsh Vijay Mudgil, a board-certified dermatologist. He particularly loves this formula because it contains hyaluronic acid, which hydrates skin and, with consistent use, can make your complexion look smoother and brighter. Dr. Patel is also a fan, saying, "This sheet mask is infused with hyaluronic acid to provide intense hydration and improve the skin's moisture levels."
Type: Gel sheet mask
Pros: Expert-approved; Contains hyaluronic acid; Lightweight essence; Available in bulk
Cons: Single-use packaging is unsustainable
If you have sensitive skin, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Rachel Nazarian recommends non-comedogenic options like this purifying clay mask from Cetaphil (we love Cetaphil around here). For those with have acne, potential irritants like fragrance can aggravate breakouts—this guy is fragrance-free! And although this mask controls sebum production, it's also infused with nourishing ingredients like shea butter and avocado oil, which Dr. Nazarian says will prevent the formula from drying out your skin.
Type: Clay mask
Pros: Expert-approved; Eradicates breakouts; Doesn't over-dry skin; Fragrance-free
Cons: More expensive than most of its competitors
With a 99 percent natural formula and tons of skin-soothing ingredients, this overnight mask is like a refreshing glass of water for your skin. The ultra-hydrating, cream-based product is formulated with avocado oil and nourishing fatty acids. Like all of Burt's Bees' products, it smells fantastic, with a lightweight, calming scent that lulls me to sleep. Put it on before bed, drift off easily, and wake up feeling nourished.
Type: Cream overnight mask
Pros: Editor-approved; Hydrating; Easy to use; Cruelty-free
Cons: May be too thick for acne-prone or combination skin
I tend to break out all over my back and chest when I'm very stressed. Because stress is unfortunately inevitable, I made a plan, and these days respond by treating those areas with the same actives that I would use to treat a facial breakout: salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. This polishing mask, which I picked up on a whim, works wonders with sugar crystals that melt as you massage them into your skin.
Type: Facial scrub mask
Pros: Editor-approved; Great for both face and body
Cons: Exfoliating sugar can be irritating for wounds or sensitive acne
Satisfying to apply and peel off (a major pro in a face mask), this mask by fourth generation skincare company Formula 10.0.6 is also very effective. Its active ingredients, which include papaya extract and grapefruit seed extract, refresh and brighten the skin without irritation, making this an excellent alternative for those who can't tolerate retinol. Another key ingredient, glycerin, hydrates your skin for a more even-looking complexion.
Type: Gel mask
Pros: Includes hydrating, dermatologist-approved ingredients; Gentle; Cruelty-free
Cons: Contains fragrance, which could be irritating for sensitive skin
Other Drugstore Face Masks We Recommend
Pro-tip: put your under-eye masks in the fridge before using them for an extra boost of de-puffing. Honestly, I just keep mine there all the time. Formulated to do the trick without the fridge (although it definitely won't hurt!) these Patchology patches contain a cocktail of cooling and firming ingredients like peptides, cloudberry oil, and bakuchiol. After you're done wearing them on your face, pat the excess serum into your skin to further combat bags and fine lines.
Type: Gel masks
Pros: Feel great (especially in the morning!); Skin-loving ingredients; Hydrating
Cons: Single-use packaging is not sustainable
Multiple reviewers rave about how much softer their skin felt after just one use of this face mask. For that, they can thank this product's power combo of hyaluronic acid and retinol. The former hydrates skin, while the latter speeds up skin cell production to reveal newer, brighter skin.
Type: Sheet mask
Pros: Contains potent ingredients like retinol and hyaluronic acid; Cute design; Softens skin
Cons: Retinol may be irritating for those with very dry or sensitive skin—consult with your dermatologist before using a retinol
This two-in-one cleanser and face mask acts like a deep cleaner for clogged pores caused by oil buildup. "This mask contains benzoyl peroxide, which makes it great for acne-prone skin, especially for those on the more oily end of the spectrum," Dr. Mudgil explains. To reap the benefits of a face mask, make sure to let the formula sit for at least five to ten minutes.
Type: Gel mask
Pros: Multi-benefit; Contains benzoyl peroxide
Cons: May be too drying for some
Camila Mendes-partnered skincare brand Loops has a whole array of sheet masks in a whole array of fun colors, and this one is my very favorite. Designed to be used before big events for a boost of major glow, it features sunflower seed oil (a potent source of omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E), aloe vera, and Hyalurosmooth, the brand's plant-derived form of hyaluronic acid, to help plump the look of fine lines.
Type: Hydrogel sheet mask
Pros: Cute packaging; Won't slip; Formulated for all skin types
Cons: Single-use packaging is not sustainable
This mask has gone viral many times over, and I believe it's worth the hype—Kourtney Kardashian Barker, Lili Reinhart, Mindy Kaling, and a host of other celebs have also expressed their loyalty for it over the years. When mixed with water or apple cider vinegar (I prefer the latter), the powder formula clears pores and results in a brighter, smoother complexion every time. "This clay mask is known for its deep cleansing properties and is suitable for all skin types," adds Dr. Patel.
Type: Clay mask
Pros: Editor-approved; Expert-approved; Fast results; Great for acne
Cons: Messy to use
Looking for a little brightening and exfoliating action in as little as five minutes? "Some fruits, like pineapple or papaya, contain natural enzymes called alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) that can gently exfoliate the skin," says Dr. Patel of papaya extract, the key ingredient in this affordable mask. "These extracts can help to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and stimulate cell renewal, resulting in smoother, clearer skin."
Type: Enzyme mask
Pros: Expert-approved ingredients; Great for hyperpigmentation; Brightening; Cruelty-free
Cons: The container is small
This mask—formulated to draw out dirt and congestion while helping absorb excess oil—has worked wonders on my breakouts. "If you have acne-prone skin, look for face masks with ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil," says Dr. Patel. This clarifying mask from SheaMoisture has just that—it's made with acne-prone skin in mind, featuring tea tree oil as a key ingredient.
Type: Mud mask
Pros: Editor-approved; expert-approved ingredients; great for acne-prone skin
Cons: May be too drying for dry, sensitive skin
Crafted to brighten dark spots and even out your skin tone, Sweet Chef's ultra-cute sheet masks should be left on your skin for 15 to 20 minutes—the perfect amount of time for a little cat nap. According to Dr. Patel, ingredients like Vitamin C and Vitamin E "can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants can help to prevent premature aging, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and promote a more youthful complexion."
Type: Sheet mask
Pros: Expert-approved ingredients; Brightening; Helps to visibly firm skin
Cons: Single-use packaging is not sustainable
Formulated with a fun jelly gel texture to be used once a week, this "literal pot of gold" face mask contains a triple-threat of AHAs, BHA, and enzymes to work on hyperpigmentation, smooth your skin's surface texture, and boost cell turnover for a brighter, more youthful-looking face. It also features vitamin C-rich pineapple and papaya enzymes, ingredients that Dr. Patel is all about. "Certain fruit extracts, like citrus or papaya extracts, contain natural enzymes that can help to exfoliate the skin and promote a brighter, more even skin tone," she explains. "These extracts can help to reduce the appearance of dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and discoloration, resulting in a more radiant complexion."
Type: Gel mask
Pros: Expert-approved ingredients; Brightening
Cons: More expensive than other options
Even if you wear sunscreen every day (which you should!), sunburns can happen. If you find yourself struggling with a burn, Dr. Patel recommends formulas with soothing ingredients like watermelon or cucumber, such as this single-use mask. These botanicals "have high water content and can provide hydration and moisturization to the skin," she says. Fruit extracts with hydrating properties can help to replenish moisture, improve skin elasticity, and prevent dryness.
Type: Sheet mask
Pros: Expert-approved ingredients; Soothing; Decreases redness
Cons: Single-use packaging is not sustainable
"This peel-off mask helps to reveal brighter and more radiant skin while gently exfoliating," Dr. Patel says of this popular mask from Aveeno, which also features that fun peel-off texture. Suitable for all skin types, it's especially helpful for those with sensitive skin who still want to benefit from an occasional exfoliation—it's non-comedogenic and was formulated with AHAs to gently lift away dead skin cells plus a soy and kiwi complex to provide skin with additional antioxidants in the aftermath.
Type: Peel-off mask
Pros: Expert-approved; Affordable; Suitable for all skin types
Cons: Single-use packaging is not sustainable
Okay, this is a little more expensive than the $25 budget we promised—but hear us out. French skincare brand Bioderma's soothing Sensibio mask is made with glycerin, which Dr. Patel says helps with hydration, skin barrier function, smoothness, softness, anti-aging, and healing. "Glycerin can act like cement and help heal the cracks in the skin barrier and restore moisture," she explains. "Glycerin is a natural humectant, which means it helps to attract and retain moisture in the skin."
Type: Cream mask
Pros: Expert-approved ingredients; Hydrating; Soothing; Non-comedogenic; Fragrance-free
Cons: More expensive than other options
I've loved using Bioré's Charcoal Instant Warming Clay Mask since high school—it never gets old and works in just a few minutes to unclog my pores and smooth uneven, irritated skin. My skin always feels clean (but not dried out) after each use, and I love the feel of the warming effect. Because it's so impactful, you won't need to use it more than once a week.
Type: Clay mask
Pros: Editor-approved; Warming effect; Helps diminish the appearance of blackheads
Cons: Single-use packaging is not sustainable
Sheet masks are just one of the things we have to thank Korean skincare for—history has it that long-ago skincare lovers would dip cloths in homemade serums to fight signs of aging, a practice that eventually became the humble sheet mask. One of my favorite K-beauty brands, Lapcos, has an array of fun face masks. This collagen option works to minimize wrinkles and restores the skin's elasticity and firmness.
Type: Sheet mask
Pros: Easy to use; Fits nicely on the face; Smells good
Cons: Single-use packaging is not sustainable
Crafted for oily and acne-prone skin, this long-beloved mask (the brand started in 1930!) was crafted to absorb excess oil and help minimize the appearance of pores while smoothing your complexion overall. After you apply it to your face and neck, it'll quickly harden. Remove it with a washcloth and warm water and be met with a happy, soft face.
Type: Clay mask
Pros: Feels refreshing; Long-loved; Formulated for acne-prone skin
Cons: Minty scent may not be ideal for everyone; Some customers find it drying
Sometimes you don't want to be overwhelmed by fragrance—and neither does your skin. This simple-yet-smoothing Sea Kale Clay option from Cocokind has powerful ingredients without the added perfume. Soothing blue sea kelp keeps your face supple while cucumber seed powder gently exfoliates for added smoothness. You can use it two or three times a week, leaving it on for 20 minutes before gently massaging off with cool water.
Type: Clay mask
Pros: Fragrance-free; Great for sensitive skin; Helps to minimize the appearance of pores
Cons: While it's fragrance-free, some users say it has a clinical smell
Humans have looked to their gardens for nourishing skincare for years, and this affordable clarifying mud mask option seizes the power of two natural staples. Strawberry and rosemary work to eliminate impurities while yarrow helps to clarify and cleanse skin. As we said earlier, the brand has been around (and making skincare!) for a long, long time—they know what they're doing.
Type: Mud mask
Pros: Vegan, Cruelty-free; Free of parabens and sulfates; Great for acne
Cons: Small bottle
If you're dealing with puffy or dull skin and need a fast pick-me-up, consider this hydrating face mask from Pacifica, which is made to soothe stressed skin (we've been there oh so many times)—the brand calls it "rehab" for your skin. It contains caffeine, which immediately lifts and revitalizes your complexion. Meanwhile, soothing ingredients like coconut and turmeric mitigate puffiness so you can look your best.
Type: Sheet mask
Pros: Soothing; Calms down puffiness; Brightening; Lifting; Fast results
Cons: Single-use packaging is not sustainable
Why Choose a Drugstore Face Mask?
There are good reason why the drugstore face mask aisle continues to grow.
"Drugstore face masks became popular quickly due to their accessibility, affordability, and convenience," shares Dr. Halim. "Additionally, drugstore face masks are usually more affordable compared to high-end options, allowing people to experiment with different products without breaking the bank. Their convenience, often packaged in single-use sachets or tubes, makes them appealing for those seeking quick and easy skincare solutions."
This could so, so easily be you.
Can a Drugstore Face Mask Really Help My Skin?
While a one-time use face mask probably won't fix all of your skin woes, it can certainly help. "Face masks are a great option for a boost of hydration and de-puffing before a big event, but as for long-term benefits you will want to stick with your daily skincare routine to see the best results," says Gatt. "Think of face masks as an occasional treat for your skin to help give it that little boost and pampering."
Drugstore Face-Mask Aftercare
When your face-mask timer is up, Gatt says you should continue your regular skincare routine: "After use, you can apply your skincare products and even apply makeup, but skip the makeup if you can to give you skin the ultimate pampering."
Meet the Experts
Born in London, raised in Wales and medicine trained in the States, Purvisha Patel quickly found her passion for skin and the treatment of skin cancers. While running a busy dermatology practice, Mohs surgery center and Medi Spa, it became clear that skincare regimens were too complicated, labor intensive and expensive for her patients. Working with a team of chemists she was able to formulate, test and approve Visha Skincare products, and now bring them to market.
Dr. Azza Halim is a leading, board-certified anesthesiologist and physician with a focus in aesthetic medicine, anti-aging treatments and regenerative medicine. Dr. Halim has a diverse background in medicine and wears many hats, making her a foremost source on a variety of topics within the wellness and beauty space. She is a national medical director for hospital, surgical and aesthetic practice startups, runs her own medical
consulting company and is a national educator and KOL for various companies, having spoken at conferences such as A4M, Boston BioLife, and Empire Medical Training and Kimera Labs. Her revolutionary, trademarked procedures for cellulite have been presented at the Aesthetics Everything, the Global Aesthetics Conference and the Global Virtual Aesthetics Summit.
Dr. Adarsh Vijay Mudgil is a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in dermatopathology and cosmetic, medical, and surgical dermatology. He is currently based in New York, where he has his own practice.
Skin health guru Erica Marie Gatt's decades worth of experience working as an aesthetician and makeup artist has shaped her foolproof, fuss-free beauty philosophy. She believes that curating thoughtful, streamlined skincare regimens for her clients is key to achieving effortless natural beauty and an overarching sense of empowerment, confidence and well-being. As someone who loves the outdoors and being active, Erica recognizes the link between health, wellness and beauty and embraces a holistic approach that puts equal emphasis on both an inner and outer glow. Erica honed her talent and channeled her passion under the tutelage of celebrated Los Angeles esthetician Gina Mari after having spent years as a makeup artist.
Dr. Rachel Nazarian joins Schweiger Dermatology after years of practicing various aspects of dermatology, including cosmetic treatments, skin cancer, general dermatology and dermatologic surgery. Dr. Nazarian has written many published articles in medical journals as well as widely respected dermatology textbooks, such as Treatment of Skin Disease. Dr. Nazarian serves as a faculty member at Mount Sinai Medical Center’s Department of Dermatology, where she completed her dermatology residency. While completing her medical degree at Tulane University School of Medicine, Dr. Nazarian was awarded a grant from the Women’s Dermatology Society. Dr. Nazarian is a board certified dermatologist and Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology.
-
Kendall Jenner Returns to New York Fashion Week Runways in a 90s Inspired Tube Top Look at AlaïaShe's back!
-
Rihanna Revises Old Hollywood Glam in Two Surprise New York Fashion Week AppearancesThe singer stunned in a custom Alaïa crystal mesh dress.
-
Jennifer Lopez Debuts Squeaky Clean Soap NailsHer "mannequin manicure" is bound to take over.
-
Starface Founder Julie Schott Shares Her Advice for Aspiring EntrepreneursThe entrepreneur spoke to editor-in-chief Nikki Ogunnaike for the 'Marie Claire' podcast "Nice Talk."
-
Is Makeup With SPF a Real Substitute for Sunscreen?A shortcut to sun protection might be costing you.
-
This Valentino Perfume Is the Best Fragrance of 2024, According to Beauty ExpertsIt's a layerable, floral fragrance.
-
Bag Balm Started as a Farm Remedy. It's Now a Viral Solution for Glowing SkinIs Bag Balm's viral resurgence worth the hype?
-
Is Colostrum the New Collagen?Doctors and wellness professionals have a lot to say about TikTok's supplement of the moment.
-
TikTok Is Making "Unsexy" Beauty Products Seem Very AppealingThere's more to worthwhile products than pretty packaging.
-
Fendi's First Fragrances Are Designed for Fashion ObsessivesIt's finally available to shop.
-
Tata Harper’s New Calming Créme Makes My Redness DisappearI tried it before anyone else—and I'll never get over the results.
