13 Best Clay Masks For Oily Skin – Recommended By A Makeup Artist (2024)
Say goodbye to excessive sebum and clogged pores and hello to the goodness of clay.
Shawnda Dorantes, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, is the founder and Master Injector at Beauty Lounge Medical Spa. She has 15 years of experience in the beauty industry and 13 years as a registered nurse. Dorantes began her career as a Beauty Advisor for Estee Lauder.
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Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.
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Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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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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Dealing with excessive oil on your face might feel like an uphill fight until you get yourself a professional-grade clay mask for oily skin. Overproduction of sebum causes oily skin, which can be triggered by a range of factors like heredity, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Excess sebum and dirt clog the pores, resulting in acne, breakouts, and that dreaded glossy, greasy shine. The continual greasy feeling will send even the most hardened of us scurrying for blotting paper, compact powder, and thorough face washing. The good news is that an appropriate skin care plan for oily skin may leave your skin feeling fresh, bright, and clean with the right combination of products.
Clay masks are fantastic for oily skin because they can extract sebum (oil) and impurities from the pores, leaving the skin feeling refreshed and renewed. Brown, green, and bentonite clays, combined or as single ingredients, make the best clay masks for oily skin. They clean out pores while simultaneously hydrating the skin for a soft, bright glow. Whether you pick a ready-to-use clay mask or one that requires you to mix it up yourself, our list of the top 13 clay masks for oily skin will help you find one that meets your needs. Scroll down to take your pick.
In This Article
Top 13 Best Clay Masks For Oily Skin In 2024
Best Overall:Cetaphil Pro DermaControl Purifying Clay Mask
This all-in-one purifying clay mask for oily skin purifies skin and deeply cleans pores to remove buildup while moisturizing skin for improved texture and complexion. This clinically-tested clay face mask contains bentonite clay, which helps in the absorption of sebum, dirt, and impurities, and amazonian kaolin clay, which gently exfoliates to lift away dead skin cells and helps improve skin tone and texture. Apple fruit extract helps maintain skin hydration, and oleic acid-rich cucumber seed extract helps brighten skin tone. Specially designed for oily, sensitive skin, this unique, expert-recommended non-drying clay mask contains fruit and vegetable extracts and can be used 2-3 times a week for skin that is left feeling refreshed and not overly dry or tight. If you need further convincing, check out this YouTuber’s review for the tester’s experience with this product.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Clinically tested
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Non-irritating formula
- Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic.
Cons
- Might cause a tingling sensation for some.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The overwhelming 20,937 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.
Best For Breakouts:Proactiv Amazonian Clay Mask
The Proactiv Amazonian Clay Mask absorbs dirt, impurities, and excess oil from the skin. The deep cleansing formula is enriched with bentonite clay, kaolin clay, vitamin E, and tea tree oil that purifies your skin, maintains its moisture level, and shrinks enlarged pores. This antioxidant-rich clay mask moisturizes and softens your skin, providing a healthy appearance. According to reviewers on Amazon, you can apply this mask to clean skin 2-3 times a week to notice visible results.
Pros
- Removes dirt and oil
- Shrinks enlarged pores
- Prevents breakouts
- Brightens the skin
Cons
- None
Did You Know?Best For Pores:Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask
Formulated with Jeju super volcanic clusters and AHA, this deep cleansing creamy clay mask helps clear congested pores while it exfoliates. Designed for oily skin, this purifying mask for oily skin minimizes the look of pores, absorbs sebum, and evens skin tone. Finely ground volcanic lava helps absorb excess sebum, while lactic acid exfoliates dead skin cells and minimizes the appearance of pores. This clay mask can be used 1-2 times a week on clean, dry skin for a decrease in visible pores, dead skin, and uneven skin tone. as attested by the reviews on Amazon. You can check this video out if you need to know more about the product and the tester’s experience with it.
Pros
- Contains no added fragrances
- Free of parabens and mineral oil
- Formulated without animal originated ingredients
- Free of imidazolidinyl urea, tar colorants, and triethanolamine.
Cons
- Might not be suitable for dry skin.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The extensive 550 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.
Cetaphil Pro DermaControl Purifying Clay Mask Best Overall | Proactiv Amazonian Clay Mask Best For Breakouts | Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask Best For Pores | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 2.95 x 2.89 x 3.35 inches | 3 x 3 x 2 inches | 7.91 x 4.29 x 3.39 inches |
| Weight | 0.01 Ounces. | 3 Ounces. | 1.76 Ounces |
| Skin Type | - | Acne Prone | Normal, Combination, and Oily |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 20,937 | 376 | 550 |
| Price | $12.89 | $31.58 | $18.53 |
Best Natural:Majestic Pure Indian Healing Clay
An ideal clay mask to shrink pores, 100% natural bentonite clay from the Wyoming Indian mountain area helps to tighten and tone skin. Particularly useful for oily skin, this clay mask helps remove acne-causing toxins from the skin, revitalizes tired skin, and maintains its moisture levels. Effective for deep pore cleansing, this pure clay mask is natural, cosmetic grade, and without any additives or fragrances. This clay mask for oily skin can be used 1-2 times a week for skin that feels fresh, clean, and bright, as claimed by the reviews.
Pros
- Contains 100% natural ingredients
- Free of additives and fragrances
- Odorless and non-staining
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Some might find this clay mask a bit heavy on the skin.
Best For Skin Tightening:Pure Biology Apple Cider Vinegar Clay Mask
This clay mask for oily skin has a powerful blend of ingredients to hydrate, exfoliate, and brighten the skin. Bentonite clay infused with apple cider vinegar provides deep pore cleansing and skin tightening, while calendula flower extract promotes a firm, tight appearance and helps reduce daily skin damage. Ideal for all skin types, this mask also contains argan oil, which provides a hydration boost, helps reduce wrinkles, and brightens skin. This cooling and hydrating clay mask contains active ingredients that help absorb excess oil, unclog pores, and restore the proper pH levels to the skin, while deeply cleansing the skin.
Pros
- Easy to use, no mess clay mask
- Free of parabens and sulfates
- Gluten-free and silicone-free
- Cruelty-free.
Cons
- Might not be suitable for sensitive skin.
Best For All Skin Types:L’Oreal Paris Pure-Clay Mask
Powered by 3 different clays in their pure form and enhanced with nature sourced eucalyptus leaf extract, this scientifically formulated oil-absorbing clay mask helps to draw out the build up of impurities, dirt, and oil, for skin that feels refreshed. Formulated with kaolin, montmorillonite, and Moroccan lava clays, this clay mask has an indulgent, creamy texture that turns your mask into a multi-sensorial experience with every use. This mask unclogs pores and reduces shine without over-drying the skin to reveal a clarified, mattified, and refreshed complexion. Suitable for all skin types, this refreshing product can be used twice weekly for best results. To find out more about this product and the tester’s experience with it, check this video review out.
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Contains natural ingredients
- Easy to apply and clean off
- Formulated with 3 types of clay.
Cons
- Contains added fragrance.
Pro TipBest For Acne:Revive Science Clay Mask
Formulated with charcoal and lecithin, this mask for oily skin acts as a magnet to capture deep-set impurities and toxins and removes dirt and excess oil by scrubbing off dead skin cells and clearing out clogged pores. Charcoal attracts dirt, toxins, heavy metals, and other chemicals, pulling them from pores, while lecithin helps retain moisture and provides the skin with nourishment. The result is a smooth, even-toned complexion that is supple and luminous. This charcoal clay mask for oily skin also helps in clarifying the skin, and fights acne and breakouts, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin.
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Free of parabens and sulfates
- BHT-free and talc-free
- Non-GMO
- Cruelty-free.
Cons
- Some might find that this product leaves a bit of residue.
Best For Eczema:Tree To Tub Ginseng Green Tea Purifying Clay Mask
This dermatologically-tested face mask for oily skin combines the gentle, magnetic effects of bamboo charcoal, bentonite clay, and kaolin clay to draw out the deepest impurities for skin that is clean and refreshed. Coconut sourced caprylic acid provides gentle moisturizing and conditioning, while the antioxidant spice cardamom assists with skin allergies and improves complexion. Vitamin C and pumpkin enzymes help reduce irritation while providing the building blocks for healthy collagen production. The impressive list of powerful ingredients also includes the ginseng green tea complex, which soothes inflammation, boosts blood circulation, and naturally tones dull skin.
Pros
- Gentle, natural scent
- Free of parabens, toxins, chemicals, and sulfates
- Effective against psoriasis, eczema, and acne
- Dermatologist-tested
- Fair-trade and sustainable ingredients
- Vegan and cruelty-free.
Cons
- Might not be suitable for dry skin.
Best For Hyperpigmentation:Gleamin Vitamin C Clay Mask
Formulated with organic ingredients, this mask cleanses pores, calms skin, and repairs damage from blemishes and scarring. Infused with skin-loving ingredients like turmeric, aloe vera, desert lime, and Kakadu plum extract, this soothing mask helps to calm, heal, and rejuvenate skin for a healthy, happy glow. This revitalizing natural mask for oily skin also stimulates collagen production to help improve skin tone, reducing dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Stain-free and formulated to work with all skin types, this mask is ready to use out of the box.
Pros
- Made with ethically sourced organic ingredients
- Suitable for all skin types
- Free of allergens and gluten
- Free of parabens and phthalates
- Vegan, PETA certified, and cruelty-free.
Cons
- Might not be suitable for sensitive skin types.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has garnered over 5,196 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.
Best Non-Comedogenic:La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clay Mask
Formulated with kaolin or white clay, this pore-minimizing face mask removes excess sebum, dirt, and impurities for skin detox and a brighter, more luminous complexion. Non-comedogenic and oil-free, this multitasking face mask is suitable for sensitive, acne-prone, and dehydrated skin. The ready-to-use mask can be applied 1-2 times a week for skin that feels clean and has a mattifying finish, as noted by reviewers. Allergy-tested for safety, this clinically-verified clay mask is recommended by dermatologists for all skin types and gives fast, visible results. This product also contains hyaluronic acid, which provides gentle moisture and hydration to the skin and helps avoid drying out the skin.
Pros
- Oil-free and non-comedogenic
- Allergy-tested and dermatologist-tested
- Free of parabens
- Suitable for all skin types.
Cons
- Contains added fragrance.
Best Hypoallergenic:Zakia’s Ghassoul Organic Clay Mask
This organic mask is made of ghassoul clay, which helps to deep clean, detoxify, tone, and rejuvenate the face and body. Ghassoul is a mineral-rich, light brown clay that blends extremely well with water allowing easy application. It helps to promote a buttery soft, smooth, and toned complexion by helping draw unwanted blackheads and impurities that block pores to leave unmatched clean, and detoxed skin. This pore-minimizing clay mask regenerates the skin by removing dead and dry skin cells that accumulate over time and tighten the pores. Hypoallergenic and recommended for all skin types, this clay mask for an oily face is rich in silica, calcium, magnesium, and potassium, helping promote collagen for improved skin elasticity.
Pros
- Formulated with 100% pure and organic ghassoul clay
- Contains no additives
- Suitable for all skin types
- Hypoallergenic formula.
Cons
- Might not be suitable for dry skin.
Best For Sensitive Skin:Chic Republic Detox Pore Minimizing Face Mask
Designed for a gentle, yet deep cleanse without drying or irritating the skin, this pore minimizing mask is formulated with kaolin clay, activated bamboo charcoal, organic rosehip oil, and vitamin C. Kaolin clay absorbs impurities and excess oil to help purify delicate skin affected by daily pollutants, while vitamin C brightens skin tone and minimizes the appearance of fine lines for a radiant complexion. It contains organic rosehip oil which contains powerful essential fatty acids to improve skin hydration and elasticity, and organic chamomile which provides antioxidant and antibacterial benefits to soothe and moisturize the skin. Designed for sensitive skin, this basic clay mask provides luxurious deep cleanse and exfoliating 2-in-1 treatment.
Pros
- Contains organic and natural ingredients
- Free of parabens
- Hypoallergenic formula
- Cruelty-free.
Cons
- Some might find the scent of this product a bit overpowering.
Best Vegan:Alya Skin Australian Pink Clay Mask
This clay mask for oily skin is made of 100% natural kaolin clay to minimize pores and leave skin feeling hydrated and moisturized. With a fragrant rose scent, this skin care product contains all-natural ingredients like pink Australian clay which pulls toxins from deep within the skin, leaving pores tight, and aloe vera which soothes skin and calms inflammation. Pomegranate aids in reducing breakouts and helps fade acne scars, while witch hazel works to tone skin, tighten pores, and promote faster healing. Suitable for use twice weekly, this pink clay mask helps achieve bright, soft skin.
Pros
- Contains all-natural ingredients
- Fragrant rose scent
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Cruelty-free and vegan.
Cons
- Might not be suitable for combination skin.
Now that we have looked at our pick of the top 13 best clay masks for oily skin in 2024, let us review some things to consider when picking a clay mask best suited for your skin conditions.
How To Choose A Clay Mask For Oily Skin
Oily skin requires a clay mask designed specially for the purpose of drawing out sebum and impurities from the pores without over-drying the skin. The best clay masks for oily skin contain natural and pure professional-grade ingredients that are non-comedogenic and don’t inhibit hydration. These cleansing masks contain kaolin or bentonite clay, which works by drawing out impurities; activated charcoal, which deep cleans; and salicylic, glycolic, and lactic acids, which help exfoliate the skin to reveal a fresher and brighter complexion.
Benefits Of Using A Clay Mask On Oily Skin
If you have naturally oily, acne-prone skin, applying a clay mask once or twice a week is beneficial in keeping your pores squeaky clean and achieving luminous skin. How clay masks work is by pulling out dirt, oil, and impurities deep from the pores making it easy to be washed off the skin. The best clay masks for oily skin will not only reduce shiny grease from the surface but will also leave your skin feeling nourished, hydrated, and rejuvenated. Look for natural professional-grade ingredients like bentonite clay, kaolin clay, and activated charcoal, which benefit oily and sensitive skin by deeply cleansing, exfoliating, and hydrating skin.
Infographic: Clay Masks For Oily Skin: Key Ingredients & Usage Tips
Clay masks are a great way to tackle oily skin, as they absorb sebum, unclog pores, and reduce excess shine. However, before picking any clay mask, you must know which key ingredients to look for in them and things to keep in mind to prevent potential skin damage. Check out the infographic below for simple tips to use these masks for your oily skin type.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Clay masks are an excellent weekly addition to your skincare regime if you have skin that is prone to acne, breakouts, and that, best avoided, greasy feeling. Whether they are ready to use or in powder form, these little pots of magic do wonders to your sebum filled pores and give you the fresh, rejuvenated look you so desire. The Cetaphil Pro DermaControl Purifying Clay Mask exfoliates dead skin cells and improves skin texture, while the Pure Biology Apple Cider Vinegar Clay Mask firms the skin and balances its pH levels. For a shine-reducing and skin-mattifying formula, the L’Oreal Paris Pure-Clay Mask is perfect. Best used once or twice a week, clay masks are an essential part of your skincare routine if your skin is sensitive and oily. With a myriad of options available in the market, let our list of the top 13 best clay masks for oily skin in 2024 be your starting guide to skin that is cleansed and hydrated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are clay masks good for oily skin?
Clay masks are especially good for oily skin as they draw out impurities, oil, and dirt from the pores and deeply cleanse the skin while retaining moisture and hydration. If you are prone to oily and acne-prone skin, adding a clinically-proven clay mask once or twice a week to your skincare regime will greatly benefit your skin. Pick a good natural face mask to reduce pores, brighten skin, and improve skin texture.
Do clay masks cause pimples?
Clay masks work by detoxifying your skin and bringing out all impurities to the surface. This may cause pimples temporarily while your skin is purging itself of all toxins, dirt, and oil. However, a breakout or rash could signify a reaction to the product, in which case you should discontinue use. The best face masks for acne include clinically-tested ingredients like salicylic acid, tea tree oil, and sulfur, which have antibacterial properties.
Is it okay to use clay masks every day?
Clay masks are very efficient at purifying the skin and drawing out oil and impurities from deep within the pores. Overuse of clay masks might excessively dry out the skin and strip the skin of essential and natural oils. It is best not to use clay masks more than 2-3 times a week, depending on how oily your skin is.
Can clay masks remove blackheads?
Blackheads are formed when pores become clogged with a combination of dead skin cells and excess oil and most commonly form on the T-zone. Clay masks containing sulfur are efficient at removing blackheads, as sulfur is an ingredient that helps break down the dead skin cells that make up blackheads. For best results, use a scientifically formulated clay mask once or twice weekly along with an exfoliating treatment.
How often should you use a clay mask for oily skin?
For the best results, you can use a clay mask for oily skin 1-2 times a week.
How long does it take to see results from a clay mask?
Clay masks are quick-acting products. They show visible results in just 10-15 minutes.
How do you use a clay mask for oily skin?
• Apply a cleanser to remove debris and oil from your face.
• Apply a thin layer of clay mask using your fingertips or a foundation brush.
• Avoid using it on your eyebrows, under eyes, eyelids, upper lip, and the area surrounding your under lip.
• Let it sit on your skin for 10-12 minutes or until it dries.
• Wash or wipe away the clay mask with a damp towel.
• Follow with a toner and moisturizer for soft, brighter, and revitalized skin.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this post, Krati Darak, has a keen interest in skin care and always loves to explore and review skin care products. After extensive research and reading many online consumer reviews, she has put together the list of clay masks for oily skin. These masks absorb the excess sebum and leave skin with a refreshed look.
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