12 Best Makeup Artist-Approved Korean Face Masks For Acne (2024)
Soak the goodness of the anti-acne mask into your skin and stop breaking out.
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.
Read full bio of Shawnda Dorantes
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.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
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.
Read full bio of Krati Darak
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.
Read full bio of Medha Deb
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One of the most popular Korean skin care products is the face mask made for acne. So we curated a special list of the best Korean face masks for acne! These masks are made with clinically-verified and skin-enriching ingredients like hyaluronic acid, tea tree oil, and salicylic acid that transform tired and dull skin into hydrated and glowing skin. And they come with many options, from a hydrating mask to deep cleansing clay sheets. These masks fight acne and pimples, unclog pores, and keep your skin clear. So scroll down and grab a mask to keep your skin acne-free!
In This Article
12 Best Korean Face Masks For Acne To Try In 2024
1. Best GMP-Certified:Merry Youth Natural Ampoule Mask
The Merry Youth Natural Ampoule Mask is a three-layered pulp sheet infused with nourishing essences that keep your skin hydrated. It contains snail filtrate, cucumber, aloe, baicalin, collagen, and white pearl that soothe irritated skin and promote skin elasticity. Green tea and red ginseng eliminate redness, unclog pores, and prevent moisture loss.
Pros
- Contains natural ingredients
- Gentle formula
- Hydrating
- Suitable for both men and women
Cons
- None
"This face mask refreshes my skin and gives it a relaxing feel. It is gentle and offers the right amount of hydration to my skin. It makes my skin more elastic and rejuvenates the dull areas. I like that it offers a cooling effect without me having to place it inside the refrigerator for hours."
2. Best For Wrinkles:The Creme Shop Turmeric Face Mask
This Turmeric Face Mask by The Creme Shop helps soothe your irritated skin, fights acne, and offers anti-aging benefits. The potent formula treats eczema and brightens dull skin. This Korean sheet mask contains collagen and honey – collagen promotes skin elasticity, and honey, a natural antibiotic, which helps in healing the skin. Turmeric protects your skin from sun damage and reduces the appearance of aging and stretch marks.
Shawnda Dorantes, skin care expert, says, “Turmeric contains anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, making it an appealing treatment option for a variety of skin conditions, including eczema and atopic dermatitis.”
This face mask hydrates your skin and offers a youthful, dewy look. It prevents skin discoloration, dark circles, wrinkles, and age spots. This antioxidant-rich product replenishes the essential moisture of your skin and revitalizes tired, dry skin. Click here to check out a detailed personal review of this product to understand a tester’s experience with it. The product has not been tested on animals.
Pros
- Anti-aging benefits
- Helps with spot-treatment
- Premium ingredients
- Suitable for eczema-prone skin
- Can be used as frequently as needed
- Alcohol-free
Cons
- None
Pro Tip3. Best Paraben-Free:I Dew Care Yoga Kitten Balancing Heartleaf Clay Mask
The I Dew Care YOGA KITTEN Balancing Heartleaf Clay Mask calms and detoxifies your blemish-prone skin. The oil-control formula is infused with heartleaf that brightens your skin. Eucalyptus oil prevents blemishes and improves skin elasticity. Kaolin clay absorbs excess oil and keeps your skin nourished and hydrated. The K-beauty product has not been tested on animals.
Pros
- Premium ingredients
- Blemish-reducing formula
- Brightening
- Gluten-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Silicone-free
- Vegan
Cons
- May have a clumpy texture
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 630 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
4. Best For Pores:Elixir Cosmetics Golden Face Mask
The elixir Golden Face Mask hydrates, even tones, and brightens your skin. It contains collagen that fades fine lines, reduces wrinkles, and promotes skin elasticity. The exfoliating properties help remove dead skin cells to achieve flawless skin. Gold and coenzyme Q10 improve blood circulation and offer healthy, glowing skin. This product helps purify your skin and eliminates acne, blackheads, and redness. To understand the nuances of the product in detail, you can check out this review of a tester’s experience.
Pros
- Suitable for both men and women
- Gives a spa-like experience
- Easy to use
- Pleasant rose fragrance
- Ideal for special occasions
- Safe for all skin types
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- May not be good for sensitive skin
"This facial mask is easy to apply and does not cause edge-creasing. It hydrates the skin without triggering existing acne. I use it to make my skin feel smoother and soothed. I use it before applying makeup to rejuvenate the skin and prepare it for makeup products."
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
It has gained over 430 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.
5. Best Clinically Tested: SKIN1004 Zombie Pack
The SKIN1004 Zombie Pack is a face pack that tightens the skin and has an improved formulation. It contains propolis and other plant extracts that provide moisturizing and antimicrobial properties. The pack also has active ingredients such as egg white and aloe vera extract that effectively cleanse, tighten, and refresh the skin, leading to a smoother texture. The albumin extract in the formula provides deep hydration to the skin, resulting in an instant glow and improved skin elasticity. It also helps in reducing signs of aging. This product has been clinically-proven to show visible results with 4 weeks of consistent usage.
Pros
- Paraben- free
- Mineral oil-free
- Artificial color-free
- Alcohol-free
- Fragrance-free
- Suitable for acne-prone skin
- Clinically-tested
Cons
- None
"This mask helps tighten my skin and make it smoother in appearance. It does not feel heavy on the skin or trigger any sensitive spots. It has a pleasant smell that fades over time. The mask leaves my complexion brighter and rejuvenated."
6. Best Dermatologically Tested: LAPCOS Tea Tree Sheet Mask
The LAPCOS Tea Tree Sheet Mask is a hydrating product that effectively eliminates blemishes using tea tree, a natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial substance. This mask is rich in althaea rosea flower extract, which provides a relaxing sensation to the dermis and imparts a radiance to the skin. This mask not only reduces oil production and increases hydration but also helps in the elimination of acne. With regular use, you may see visible results and achieve healthy-looking, clearer skin while enjoying a relaxing experience and intense hydration. The product has not been tested on animals.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Alcohol-free
- Fragrance-free
- Soothes skin
- Suitable for acne-prone skin
Cons
- None
"These sheet masks refresh my skin and offer a relaxing experience. They moisturize my skin without feeling heavy. They come with pleasant fragrances that do not cause headaches. I like how they make my skin feel elastic and firm while improving its tone."
7. Best Budget-Friendly: Lookatme Face Mask
The lookATME Face Mask is a pack of 12 sheets designed to treat various skin woes. The Sweet Honey Bear Face Mask contains honey and propolis extract that provide smooth and supple skin. The Vegetable Bunny Mask is enriched with Hordeum vulgare and hydrolyzed collagen that supports the skin barrier. The Acqua Moisture Racoon Mask is made with hyaluronic acid that helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles. The Natural Bamboo Panda Mask is infused with Bamboo Waterlock Complex that hydrates and nourishes the skin. These pore-refining face masks shrink enlarged pores, treat hyperpigmentation and acne scars, and reduce dry, flaky skin.
Pros
- Moisturizes the skin
- Budget-friendly
- Non-sticky
- Long-lasting
Cons
- None
8. Best Cruelty-Free:Masque Bar Pink Clay Peel Off Mask
The masque Bar Pink Clay Peel-Off Mask helps detoxify and deep cleanse the skin. It is formulated with kaolin and bentonite clays that remove acne, pimples, and blackheads. Anise, peach, and grapefruit extracts transform dull and tired skin into healthy-looking skin. The rich formula soothes, brightens, and moisturizes your skin and diminishes signs of aging.
Pros
- Exfoliating
- Detoxifying
- Contains fruit and natural extracts
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Does not last long
"I use this face mask because it is user-friendly and refines my pores. It makes my skin feel fresh and soft. I use it after coming back from work to remove the dirt that accumulates in my skin all day long. It spreads thickly and is easy to peel off as well."
9. Best Value-For-Money: Innisfree’s Volcanic Cluster Pore Clearing Clay Mask
The Innisfree Volcanic Cluster Pore Clearing Clay Mask is a pore care product that effectively cleanses and exfoliates the skin. This deep-cleansing mask contains walnut shells, AHA, and absorbing jeju super volcanic clusters. These ingredients help improve the appearance of clogged pores, absorb excess oil, and gently exfoliate the skin. This clinically-proven product is also effective in removing pollution particles, helping to even out skin tone and provide bright and clear skin. The mask is also calming and soothing, making it suitable for all skin types.
Pros
- Moisturizes the skin
- Skin-clearing formula
- Gives even skin tone
- Budget-friendly
- Paraben -free
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Soothing
- Clinically-tested
Cons
- Leaves behind residue
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 871 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
10. Best Dermatologist Tested:Mask Science Mediheal N.M.F Intensive Hydrating Mask
The Mask Science Mediheal N.M.F Intensive Hydrating Mask contains humectants, amino acids, sugars, lipids, and minerals that keep the skin hydrated. The Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) nourishes dry skin and locks your skin’s natural moisture. This face mask helps refine and tighten your skin. Hyaluronic acid and binding sugar keep your skin hydrated and offer a soft, supple look. This mask may help minimize skin irritations.
Pros
- Naturally-derived ingredients
- Vegan
- Non-toxic
- Alcohol-free
- Fragrance-free
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- The fragrance may be too strong for some people
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 207 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
11. Best Easy-To-Use: I’m from Mugwort Mask
The I’m from Mugwort Mask is a wash-off mask that is designed to soothe and calm the skin. It contains mugwort, which is included in the product at a concentration of 2.1%. Mugwort is rich in vitamins and minerals, and it has a relaxing and cooling effect that works quickly to relieve inflammation and redness. The mild gel contains mugwort powder, which helps to regulate the skin’s temperature as soon as it penetrates the skin. This mask is gentle enough to use every day.
Pros
- Calms skin
- Non-sticky
- Moisturizes the skin
- Long-lasting
- Suits all skin types
- Not tested on animals
Cons
- Expensive
"This face mask leaves my skin feeling clean and refreshed. Its gel texture spreads easily and does not remain sticky when applied. It offers a soothing feel to my skin without any tingling sensations. It controls excess sebum product in my skin and rinses off easily without triggering skin issues."
12. Best Anti-Aging: SeoulCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Jelly Mask
The SeoulCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Jelly Mask is a natural face mask made from plant-based hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5. It hydrates and smoothens the skin to make it look younger and more radiant. It contains rosehip oil and rice bran, two ingredients known for their ability to soothe the skin while also delivering essential fatty acids that help the skin look and feel fresh and more alive. This face mask also reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles and improves skin’s elasticity providing soft and supple skin.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
- Sulfate-free
- Gluten-free
- Alcohol-free
- Paraben-free
- Moisturizes the skin
- Gentle formula
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- None
Face masks for acne are popular K-beauty products because of their formulations. They are ideal for acne-prone skin and offer exceptional results. With so many options, it might be hard to pick the best! Look into the following factors when deciding to purchase the best Korean masks for acne treatment.
What To Consider When Buying Korean Face Masks For Acne
- Ingredients: Make sure your choice of Korean mask is enriched with skin-friendly ingredients which diminish acne and offer smoother skin. Look for ingredients like niacinamide, salicylic acid, tea tree and rosemary oil, zinc, retinoid, AHA, BHA, and benzoyl peroxide. These ingredients help reduce inflammation, open clogged pores, increase collagen production, enhance cell renewal, reduce dead skin buildup, and combat acne-causing bacteria.
Avoid masks with a chemical formulation that might irritate your skin. Avoid combinations with paraben, alcohol, SLS, artificial fragrance, phthalate, and gluten.
- Types Of Masks: Sheet masks for acne are rich in natural ingredients and are mess-free. A clay mask is equally effective; it pulls the extra oil from the skin and brightens it. The peel-off mask for acne-prone skin detoxifies and deep cleanses the skin. Thus, you can pick out the mask for your skin care routine according to your time and convenience.
- Budget-Friendly: The price of face masks is a vital point you must consider. Always shop within your budget while reviewing Korean masks. Good quality masks are available at all price ranges. Remember, the price of the product doesn’t necessarily reflect the quality.
- Skin-Friendly Formula: Opt for a gentle formula that exfoliates the skin without irritation and prevents acne breakouts. Choose products which are oil-free, non-comedogenic, non-acnegenic and would not clog pores.
Note:
Patch testing is recommended when purchasing new skin care products to check for irritation or inflammation.
Infographic: Korean Face Masks for Acne: Key Natural Ingredients and Their Benefits
The popularity of Korean skin care regimens has skyrocketed recently, and for a good reason. They work! If you are switching to K-face masks for acne care, check out what ingredients you must look for in the infographic below.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Korean skincare offers a plethora of nourishing products including the best face masks. These masks help rejuvenate the skin by absorbing excess oil and help with acne-fighting the bacteria from the skin’s surface. The I Dew Care Yoga Kitten Balancing Heartleaf Clay Mask soothes, detoxifies, and brightens skin, while Innisfree’s Volcanic Cluster Pore Clearing Clay Mask moisturizes all skin types. For a fragrance-free option, LAPCOS Tea Tree Sheet Mask is the ideal pick. The best Korean face masks penetrate deep into the skin and hydrate the skin cells to provide you with glowing acne-free skin. These masks are budget-friendly, cruelty-free, and easy to use. However, some products might cause a slight tingling sensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it okay to use Korean face masks every day?
Yes, in Korea, people use face masks on a daily basis. They keep on switching between hydrating, purifying, and exfoliating face masks depending on their needs. Therefore, if you can make these transitions, you can use different Korean face masks each day.
Should you wash your face after using a Korean face mask?
No, you generally do not wash your face after using a Korean face mask. You just remove the sheet mask and let the leftover serum get absorbed into your skin.
Can a Korean face mask remove pimples?
Yes, a Korean anti-acne face mask can remove pimples and even prevent future breakouts.
How long do you leave your Korean face mask on?
Leave a Korean face mask on your face for around 15 minutes and then remove it.
What happens if you leave a Korean face mask on too long?
Leaving your Korean face mask on your face for too long may be harmful to your skin. It may cause excessive dryness and irritation as it absorbs all the good nutrients back from your face.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Shiboli Chakraborti, the author of this article, is a certified skin care coach. She is enthusiastic about skin care and has a deep understanding of the skin’s cellular demands. She read numerous product specifications and user feedback to curate this list of the best Korean face masks for acne. The products mentioned in the list fight acne and pimples, unclog pores, and keep your skin clear.
Read full bio of Shawnda Dorantes
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Read full bio of Krati Darak
Read full bio of Medha Deb
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