Clay Face Masks Are My Secret to Keep My Acne-Prone and Oily Skin In Check
The tried-and-true favorites I swear by.
As someone who has experienced acne and the effects of oily skin since puberty, I know a thing or two about the products that help to address these skin concerns. While it’s my job to test out the latest and greatest on the market, there is one formula that will never, ever leave my skincare cabinet: clay face masks.
Through every stage of my life, clay face masks have been a tried-and-true product for breakouts, full-on face and neck treatments, and even my hair. I say all of this to say: I know my way around the clay face mask space because I’ve had years of trial-and-error putting them to the test.
Even though we are currently in the midst of winter, my acne-prone skin is still thriving, and my clay mask routine remains one of my favorite forms of self-care. During this time of year, I do follow it up with a pretty intensive hydration ritual, but for all intents and purposes, we’re focusing on the masking portion of my routine. If you’re on the hunt for a new clay mask, keep reading for my favorite formulas on the market, from someone who’s tried practically all of them.
The Tools
Before we get to the clay, I have to tell you about the tools I love to use with it. The first step in any masking routine is to ensure you have the proper instruments to apply it and clean, prepped skin so the clay has a smoother base to adhere to.
I have had and loved this Benefit applicator for years. Not only is it small and nimble enough to get into that little crevice by my nose (you know the one), but it also has a brush at the opposite end to wash any wayward pieces of the mask left behind with ease.
Silicone mixing bowls are my best friend for one of the masks I’ll mention ahead. I can mix up my concoction and apply it with no mess. The best part? The silicone material makes them hygienic and so easy to clean afterward. This set, in particular, is a great deal and would be fabulous to split with your family and friends.
The Viral Ones
I’ve seen the masks below in my social media feeds more times than I can count. I’m not complaining, though, because I can attest that they’re phenomenal products.
I have been using this face mask since high school, and it has yet to let me down. Just adding water is enough for me, but I’ve seen some people add apple cider vinegar, and they’ve claimed that the combination has worked wonders for their skin. I will be sticking firmly with the former technique, but I do love the versatility this mask offers.
I have also used this Caudalíe mask for years, and I can’t say enough good things about it. It’s premixed and stored in a tube, so all you have to do is squeeze it onto your applicator or onto clean hands, and go to town. Every time I use this, my face feels smooth and lifted without feeling dry, quite the feat given the nature of clay-based skincare products.
The Ones for Acne
While technically all clay face masks can be used to address acne, the two below are made specifically for people like me to keep those pesky bumps at bay for as long as I can.
This Rapid Relief Acne Sulfur Mask from Murad is one of my holy grails when I’m breaking out. It has sulfur and salicylic acid, which help to address bacteria and target skin texture and pores, respectively. Plus, the tube packaging keeps the application neat and mess-free.
Another acne-focused clay mask I love comes from the brand ClearStem. Its Sulfur Spot and Mask includes a pump for easy, targeted application to small pimples, but you can also apply it beyond spot treatments for a full-on face mask.
The Classics
The clay masks ahead have been around for years, and I swear by them now just as much as I did over a decade ago.
This Rare Earth mask from Kiehl's got me through college and late nights, so it’ll forever have my loyalty. Kaolin clay and glycerin combine in a truly massive tub of product that will last you. On top of that, thanks to some of the nourishing ingredients in the formula, it doesn’t leave your face as dry and tight as some other formulas can.
Another classic formula is Origins’ Original Skin Retexturizing Mask. It has all the ingredients that we know and love from a clay mask, like Kaolin, but it also features Willowherb. This ingredient has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which are fantastic for people with more sensitive, reactive skin types.
The Wishlist Ones
There are a few clay masks on my wishlist that I will be acquiring very shortly. They’ve made this list because of other editor recommendations or standout qualities like interesting ingredients, gorgeous packaging, or my brand dedication.
The number of times fellow beauty editors have recommended this brand to me has to be in the hundreds by now, and I can see why. Dr. Barbara Sturm is a genius in her own right, and her products reflect that expertise. The Clarifying mask from the line has ingredients like kaolin and zinc to reduce excess oil and prevent breakouts, respectively, and it’s everything this oily, acne-prone gal needs to fight the strange things the New York City environment does to my skin.
I’ve tried a few products from Mara and have low-key fallen in love with the brand. This mask has made its way onto my wishlist thanks to its key ingredients. There’s volcanic ash, rich in active enzymes and minerals to diminish the appearance of blemishes and excess oil. There’s also ashwagandha and honey. The first is an antioxidant, and the second is a humectant, which means dryness is mitigated thanks to their hydrating and protecting properties.
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