11 Best Clay Masks For Acne And Clogged Pores For All Skin Types
Take advantage of these natural, organic ingredients to calm your acne-prone skin.
Experience: 3 yearsKirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru, and 3 years of professional experience. She developed a deep passion for writing after reading the brilliant works of Enid Blyton and Roald Dahl and has chosen a career that is driven by creativity.
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Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
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Experience: 3 yearsSwathi has a postgraduate degree in English literature from The English And Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and over three years of experience in writing on beauty, health, and lifestyle. She also has a diploma in English journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Kottayam, and is a certified skincare coach.
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The best clay masks for acne have taken the skincare industry by storm, and for good reason. Acne is a global skin issue that many teenagers and even young adults suffer from. The painful pimples and the ugly marks caused by breakouts are enough to put giant boulders on anyone’s self-esteem. Sometimes, it may even reduce your desire to dress up, experiment with makeup, and get excited about trying on something new. The worst part is the breakouts that appear overnight when you have an important event to attend the very next day. Cosmetics can also trigger acne, and it is sad as the foundation does not sit smoothly. It takes forever to conceal the acne marks, only to realize that the product is wearing out and exposing the area in the most unflattering manner. Masks, especially clay ones, should be your go-to soothing product to calm down your irritated skin overnight and help you weed out the impurities causing problems. Your skin will start feeling more soft and smooth and slowly prevent your acne from acting up. Pick your favorite out of the 11 clay masks!
In This Article
How Do Clay Masks Work For Acne?
Clay is a natural material full of rich natural minerals such as silica, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. There are various types, such as kaolin, bentonite, Rhassoul, and green clay. Depending on the variety, clay, in general, comes with a host of advantages for acne-prone skin types. Clay dives deep into the skin and draws out toxins, oils, and dust while also unclogging the pores. Clogged pores later turn into pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Apart from this, clays also perform a great job at gently exfoliating skin and absorbing excess oil and sebum. Some clays also help firm up the skin, increase collagen production, and reduce the appearance of pores. While minimizing breakouts, clay also helps prevent future ones and heals acne scars. Using a clay mask 1-3 times a week can set your skin up for a healthy-looking radiant complexion.
Keep Breakouts At A Distance With The 11 Best Clay Masks For Acne In 2023
Best For Total Body Use:Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay
With 100% natural calcium bentonite clay, this natural clay mask by Aztec Secret dives deep into your pores for a thorough cleanse. Within the 20 or so minutes of staying on your skin, Indian Healing Clay acts like a vacuum and draws out all impurities to leave skin clean. Not your average face pack, this clay mask for pimples can also be used all over your body, for foot soaks, to treat bug bites, and as a bathing powder, garnering unanimously positive reviews online. Use it once a week on acne-prone skin and see the difference for yourself. This video of a tester’s experience will give you more information about the product.
- Draws out impurities from the skin
- Controls oil production
- Lightens blemishes
- Reduces appearance of pores
- Cruelty-free
- Free from fragrance and additives
- Might be too strong for sensitive skin
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 9,397 rave reviews on Amazon.
Best For Smooth Skin:NewYorkBiology Dead Sea Mud Mask
No matter what your skin type, acne doesn’t discriminate. Lucky for you, NewYorkBiology’s Dead Sea Mud Mask works on all types of skin and helps in deep cleansing it. It is infused with dead sea mineral mud that gently cleans out clogged pores and purifies them. To condition the skin simultaneously, this purifying clay mask for acne contains a herbal complex made of aloe vera and vitamin E along with calendula, sunflower seed, and jojoba oils. Several reviewers love how the rich mineral mask renews skin with a soothing feel as it draws out toxins and oils with a gentle exfoliating effect. Achieve a luminous glow and soft skin using the Dead Sea Mud Mask which also refines and improves skin texture while promoting blood circulation. Have a look at this video featuring the reviewer’s experience to learn more about the product.
- Cruelty-free
- Doesn’t contain alcohol, parabens, or sulfates
- Absorbs excess oils
- Minimizes blackheads and the appearance of pores
- Smooths skin texture
- Gently exfoliates skin
- Might become clumpy during removal
StyleCraze SaysWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 5,282 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
Best For Improved Skin Elasticity:MAJESTIC PURE Himalayan Clay Mud Mask
Use the Himalayan Clay Mud Mask as part of your weekly pamper routine for a luxurious bout of exfoliation and moisturization. Enriched with pink clay rich in silica, this clay mask for acne improves the elasticity of the skin and its renewal. It detoxifies acne-prone skin and brightens it for a youthful-looking complexion that’s also clear of acne! With the help of kaolin clay, MAJESTIC PURE’s mask helps control and balance sebum production while reducing the look of enlarged pores. Use it regularly for achieving a clearer complexion and smoother skin.
- Improves skin elasticity
- Gently exfoliates skin
- Contains moisturization benefits
- Controls sebum production
- Reduces look of enlarged pores
- Detoxifies and brightens skin
- Might cause flare-ups in sensitive skin
Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay Best For Total Body Use | NewYorkBiology Dead Sea Mud Mask Best For Smooth Skin | MAJESTIC PURE Himalayan Clay Mud Mask Best For Improved Skin Elasticity | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | Combination | - | All |
| Dimensions | 3.7 x 3.7 x 3.7 inches | 2.5 x 3 x 3 inches | - |
| Weight | 1.16 Pounds | 8.8 Ounces | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 9,397 | 5,282 | 3,767 |
| Price | $14.95 | $17.95 | $12.91 |
Best Anti-Aging:Pure Biology Apple Cider Vinegar Clay Mask
With the goodness of activated charcoal, apple cider vinegar, and bentonite and kaolin clays — all superheroes that fight against chronic acne, Pure Biology’s mask is a godsend. These ingredients clean the congested pores deeply to rid them of oil and dirt for clear-looking skin. Additionally, the infusion of retinol with vitamins B, C, and E smooths and brightens the complexion and bulks up on the anti-aging benefits. Many reviewers have noticed softer skin after using the mask and its smell. Use this popular clay mask for acne scars to achieve a healthier complexion, free of acne, spots, fine lines, and wrinkles.
- Unclogs pores
- Contains a vitamin blend
- Provides anti-aging benefits
- Rids skin of blackheads
- Works as a spot treatment
- Free of parabens and sulfates
- Some may feel a stinging sensation
Best Ph-balanced Formula:ANAI RUI Turmeric Clay Mask
Give your skin a spa day at home with ANAI RUI’s Turmeric Clay Mask that boasts nourishing skin benefits. Turmeric combats acne and acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, with vitamin C working towards a radiant complexion. This clay mask for cystic acne also fades dark spots and slows down the signs of aging due to vitamin E. This mask helps in refreshing the skin, and you’ll find aloe vera and hyaluronic acid that hydrate skin and make it plumper. For firm and younger-looking skin, try this anti-acne mask for yourself and reap its clear benefits. Here is an informative video of a tester’s experience that tells you more about the product.
- pH-balanced formula
- Cruelty-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Doesn’t contain sulfates or parabens
- Suitable for all skin types
- Purifies and refines pores
- Might irritate sensitive skin
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Almost 4,001 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
CHIC REPUBLIC’s organic clay mask for acne detoxifies skin with activated bamboo charcoal and kaolin clay, both of which work to control oil. The gentle exfoliation allows newer and clear skin to come up to the surface and graces you with a glowy complexion. If you’ve felt like your skin is congested lately, have a go at the Pore Minimizing Face Mask, which minimizes aging signs. The infusion of vitamin C and spirulina with organic primrose, kelp, and rosehip oils moisturizes skin and lowers the appearance of wrinkles. Gift your skin with a hug in the form of this charcoal clay mask for acne.
- Cruelty-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Paraben-free
- Minimizes blackheads
- Contains anti-aging benefits
- Brightens and moisturizes skin
- Some may find the odor to be persistent
Best Vegan:Skinbery Australian Pink Clay Mask
If you can’t seem to catch a break from hormonal or cystic acne, try Skinbery’s Australian Pink Clay Mask, as it contains a host of detoxifying ingredients. This clay mask for acne and blackheads cleanses and exfoliates the skin by ridding it of dirt, grime, and oils to make way for brand new skin. Due to its abundance of silica and other natural minerals, the high collagen production gives you plump mochi-like skin. Put this pink clay mask for acne on and reward yourself with a relaxing evening with your favorite Netflix series.
- Tightens and minimizes pores
- Renews skin and increases elasticity
- Made with natural ingredients
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan and gluten-free
- Can be used on the body or as a spot treatment
- Might dry out dry skin even further
RememberBest For Reduced Skin Inflammation:Nature's Skin And Body Natural Clear-Acne Facial Mask
By getting right to the root cause of acne, this acne-clearing mask unclogs your pores and helps in reducing inflammation on acne-prone skin. It quickly absorbs all impurities and removes them to make way for soothed and healed skin. With a unique nanotube structure, the clay dives deep into the pores to purge out the gunk. With a blend of effective ingredients like bentonite and organic mineral clays, jojoba, virgin, and grapeseed oils along with flaxseed, grapefruit extract, and aloe vera gel, your skin will be transformed! Try this mask if acne gives you sleepless nights so you can nip it in the bud and enjoy healthier skin.
- Deep cleanses pores
- Contains a blend of organic oils
- Reduces skin inflammation
- Minimizes blackheads
- Combats root cause of acne
- Can be used all over body or as a spot treatment
- Some may find the odor to be too strong
Best Oil-Free:Ebanel Carbonated Bubble Mask
Who says bubbles ought to be enjoyed only by kids? Ebanel’s Carbonated Bubble Mask combines beauty with fun for a joyful self-care experience. It is enriched with volcanic ash, bentonite clay, and niacinamide, all of which help acne-prone skin immensely. They minimize pores and help in reducing redness, also slowing down breakouts. The slow release of oxygen and collagen peptides helps with skin regeneration. This mask utilizes vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and fruit extracts like papaya, apple, and blueberry to impart a healthy glow for a complexion as bright as the stars.
- Free of alcohol, oil, and soap
- Cruelty-free and vegan
- Helps skin regeneration
- Hypoallergenic
- Reduces blackheads and pore size
- Made of plant-derived and biodegradable microfiber
- Might irritate sensitive skin
Best Organic:LEROSETT Spot Treatment & Clearing Mask
Made with 100% organic clay, this mask vows to help with acne-prone skin and other issues like blackheads, whiteheads, and cysts. If a new pimple pops up right before a photoshoot or a long-awaited date, dab some of this professional-grade treatment on and watch it go by morning! Infused with zinc, this clinically-proven mask controls oil production and helps in promoting skin healing. With a thin consistency, LEROSETT’s mask dries quicker and is also easy to wash off. The brand also claims that visible results were noticed by consumers after 4 weeks of use.
- 100% organic
- Works as a spot treatment
- Reduces oil production
- Speeds up healing
- Thin consistency
- Mess-free application and removal
- Might aggravate sensitive skin
Best For Sensitive Skin:Proactiv Amazonian Clay Mask
Proactiv’s Amazonian Clay Mask contains a rich blend of minerals like bentonite and kaolin clays for efficient absorption of oil and other impurities. Another blend of skin-loving ingredients like vitamins and antioxidants abound in this clay mask to give you softer and nourished skin. This pore-refining mask does a great job of not only shrinking your pores but also minimizing and preventing breakouts. To protect the skin from free radicals, the formula is infused with vitamin E and tea tree oil is also present to offer antiseptic benefits. With all these star qualities, we think this is the best clay mask brand for sensitive skin.
- Absorbs excess oil
- Nourishes skin
- Shrinks pores
- Protects skin from damage
- Gently cleanses skin
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Some may not like the scent
Best For Skin Barrier:Natrulo Turmeric Face Mask
A mix of turmeric, aloe, milk, and honey in Natrulo’s Turmeric Face Mask is designed to give you glowing skin that doesn’t disappoint. As the formula also contains bentonite clay powder and cinnamon, watch your pores shrink, giving a youthful appearance. With the presence of antioxidants, your skin is detoxified, and colloidal oatmeal helps strengthen the skin barrier. While all impure oils are drawn out due to the turmeric, the honey works its magic by soothing the irritated skin and giving it a radiance everyone will be envious of.
- Removes dead skin cells
- Strengthens skin barrier
- Brightens and evens out complexion
- Heals skin
- Reduces acne blemishes
- Tightens skin
- Might cause a stinging sensation on sensitive skin
Now that we’ve looked at some of the best clay masks for acne, let’s dive into how you can choose the right one according to your skin issues and type.
How To Choose The Right Clay Mask For Acne
- Type of clay
Clay is a natural substance rich in minerals such as silica, potassium, and calcium. Different types offer varied benefits to the skin.
Kaolin clays come in a variety of colors. White and yellow kaolin clay is best suited for those that have dry and sensitive skin as they are rich in silica, zinc, calcium, and magnesium. They are not as good at absorbing and removing excess oil from the skin when compared to other types of kaolin. Oily skin can benefit from red clay because it has wonderful absorption properties.
For combination or severely acne-prone skin, pink kaolin clay is your best bet. It is a mix of red and white kaolin which is good at drawing out impurities, exfoliating, and rejuvenating the skin.
Bentonite clay is obtained from the sediments of volcanic ash and is quite effective at absorbing all the extra oil from your skin. If you have acne scars or lesions, bentonite helps heal them faster owing to its high concentration of skin-nourishing minerals.
French green clay is for those that want some exfoliating action along with oil absorption and it is obtained from decomposed plants mixed with iron oxides.
Pick a clay mask according to the kind of benefits you want from it, as there are plenty on the market. Some even feature a mix of the above types of clays so you can get a well-rounded advantage.
- Skin type
Clay generally dries out the skin owing to its excellent sebum-absorbing properties, but to some skin types like dry ones, this can do more harm than good. If your skin type is dry, look for supporting ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, and jojoba oil in your clay mask so that your skin is deeply moisturized. After washing the mask off, always ensure to apply a lotion to retain moisture. Oily skin benefits most from clay due to the oil absorption but opting for a mask with tea tree extracts, niacinamide, and aloe won’t hurt. If you have combination skin, honey is a great addition as it heals scars and retains moisture in the dry parts. Normal skin that suffers from acne can choose any kaolin or bentonite clay mask with ingredients that they prefer. Chamomile and calendula extracts or aloe vera will have a soothing effect on sensitive skin that is prone to flare-ups and irritation.
- Form
Most clay masks are available in a powdered form wherein you’re required to mix them with some water or apple cider vinegar. This method is convenient for when you are at home with no obligations as it may be time-consuming and you will need to have some products on hand. On the other hand, some masks come already mixed in tubes which you apply on your face and wait for it to dry. These are a great option for when you’re traveling or pressed for time as the dry and wet ingredients are already combined.
After you’ve got your hands on the right clay mask for your skin, let’s learn how you can use it for the most benefit.
How To Use Clay Mask For Acne
- Step 1: Use a facial cleanser suited to your skin type and rinse your face thoroughly. Pat face dry with a towel.
- Step 2: Prepare the clay mask. Mix the clay with water if your skin is dry or sensitive or apple cider vinegar for oily and combination skin types. For best results, follow the directions and measurements on the label.
- Step 3: Using a brush or with clean fingers, apply the mask evenly on your face. Ensure to avoid the eye area and the lips.
- Step 4: Wait for the mask to dry. This can take anywhere from around 10 to 30 minutes. Follow the time given in the instructions as each mask is different.
- Step 5: After the time is up, simply rinse off with warm water. You could also put a warm towel on your face and allow it to soften the dried-up clay. Rinse off afterwards.
Infographic: Ingredients To Look For In A Clay Mask For Acne
Acne is a common skin issue affecting many teenagers and young people worldwide. To treat this condition, a clay mask should be your go-to soothing treatment for calming sensitive skin. Your acne will eventually stop bothering you as your skin gets softer and smoother. The below infographic can help you understand the components of a clay mask that is ideal for your skin. Keep scrolling to check it out! Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Acne is a common skin concern in teenagers and adults that occurs due to accumulated impurities and excessive sebum production. This acne breakout might sometimes even reduce your self-esteem. Fret not! There are many clay masks available in the market that can keep your skin clear and remove impurities. However, it would be best to invest in clay masks that eliminate impurities from the skin, minimize the pores, and clean the clogged pores. The Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay is a cult favorite as it deeply cleanses and decongests your pores. If you want to instantly revive dull skin, the NewYorkBiology Dead Sea Mud Mask works like a charm. Lastly, for the oily or combination skin type, the Pure Biology Apple Cider Vinegar Clay Mask is ideal as it gently exfoliates. The products listed in our article can absorb excess oil, minimize blackheads, improve elasticity, and smooth the skin. These products are also known to combat the root cause of the appearance of acne. However, you may want to stay away from the products that cause a tingling sensation on your skin. Always remember to do a patch test prior to topical application to prevent possible allergic reactions.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Kirtana Divakar, is a skin care enthusiast and advocates clay masks for preventing acne breakouts. She has compiled the above list after researching a wide range of clay masks and scrolling through hundreds of reviews by the users on trusted online forums. These masks soothe irritated skin and help get you rid of acne-causing impurities, gradually making the skin soft and smooth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should you leave a clay mask on to treat acne?
A clay mask has instructions on how long to keep it on, which usually differs from product to product. Anywhere between 10 to 30 minutes is ideal, after which the mask can be washed off.
How often should we use a clay mask for acne?
Clay masks can be used once to thrice a week, not more. As clay has the ability to draw all oils out, it can be too drying on the skin if overused.
Are clay masks good for cystic acne?
Yes, clay masks can help reduce the size and inflammation of cystic and hormonal acne, blackheads, and whiteheads.
Does pink clay mask work for acne?
Pink clay gently exfoliates skin and reduces congestion to minimize breakouts and blackheads, making it a great choice for acne-prone skin.
Are clay masks good for fungal acne?
Masks that contain bentonite clay can be beneficial for fungal acne as they absorb the excess oil in the skin and combat the bacteria and fungus while helping in acne treatment.
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