Just as how toxins can accumulate in our body, dirt and grime build up in pores too over time. Which is why beauty companies have invented a wide range of products to help us clean, exfoliate and detox our skin. Aside from daily cleansing and regular exfoliation, it is important to give your skin a thorough purge with purifying masks that absorb excess sebum, sweep away debris and draw out grime deep within pores.
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When searching for the perfect purifying mask, the ingredients are key. Since they are designed to soak up unwanted dirt and grime, one of the most popular ingredients found in purifying masks are clays like Kaolin and Bentonite, which are highly absorbent, and eliminate impurities from deep within pores like a charm. Sulfur is also fantastic for oily skin, as it has anti-bacterial properties to wipe out acne-causing bacteria and prevent breakouts from occurring. Whether you are looking for a mask that also doubles up as an exfoliant, spot treatment or even overnight SOS, here are the best purifying masks to combat oily skin and enlarged pores at all price points:
If you’re prone to dehydration and irritation, this creamy mask is gentler on your skin, so there’s no worry about irritation here. With key ingredients like activated charcoal and white china clay, its creamy formula attracts sebum and grime from deep within pores, soothes redness and leaves skin clarified and smooth.
If you’re also concerned with skin sensitivity, this gentle cleansing masque is your best bet as aloe vera helps soothe, hydrate and protect sensitive skin while deep-cleansing clays work their magic. Featuring Amazonian White Clay, this not only draws out impurities, it also eliminates bacteria that harbour deep within pores which can aggravate acne. Bentonite helps absorb excess sebum, thereby reducing shine so skin stays mattified, supple and smooth.
A supercharged upgrade of its predecessor, this mask deeply cleanses pores with volcanic ash obtained from Jeju. Infused with a host of exfoliating and hydrating ingredients, it also helps slough away dead skin cells while replenishing skin with moisture so skin texture is refined without leaving it dry and tight.
Cambrian Blue Clay lies at the heart of this skin-clearing formula. Obtained from Siberian lakes, this prized clay purges congestion while rebalancing skin’s moisture and sebum levels. When combined with kaolin clay, it detoxifies skin, ridding it of dirt, grime and impurities for a smooth and refined complexion. 100% natural rose essential oil is also added to help calm skin and provide a soothing scent.
If you’re looking at targeting enlarged pores, dullness and soothing skin all at the same time, look no further. In addition to its skin-refining benefits (from the French Green Clay), this also contains turmeric and ginger to brighten skin and counter redness. Vitamin E is also added to provide antioxidants and nourishing properties for well-balanced skin. All you have to do is mix two spoonful of the mask into two spoonful of water, whip it into a paste and apply onto skin for 5 to 10 minutes.
Is this list even complete without the Glamglow mask? Known for its ability to combat multiple skin concerns like blemishes, redness, scars, razor bumps and ingrown hair, this potent yet gentle mud formula uses its proprietary blend of six acids to lift away dead skin cells, stimulate cellular renewal and improve skin texture. Activated-X charcoal also eliminates pore-clogging impurities and thanks to the Pore Matrix technology, you can see exactly where the gunk has been mopped up by it.
Ideal for blemished, troubled skin, this astringent mask draws out acne-causing impurities and sebum to keep breakouts at bay. With a clay base that is made of kaolin and bentonite, this clears out pores while a blend of botanical oils and plant-based extracts regulate sebum production and keep skin soft and supple. Use twice weekly and rinse off after fifteen minutes, or apply directly onto pimples as an intensive overnight treatment.
Claiming to be the “World’s Most Powerful Facial”, this widely raved about mask has garnered tens of thousands of online reviews. Containing 100% Natural Calcium Bentonite Clay, you’ll have to mix the clay with equal parts of apple cider vinegar or water before applying onto the skin. As with most clay masks, you’ll feel a stiff and tightening sensation as it sets on your skin after about 15-20 minutes (if your skin is prone to sensitivity, begin with leaving this on for about 5 minutes). After which, rinse off with warm water or wipe with a warm washcloth. With weekly use, expect your skin’s sebum level to be regulated and pores to appear more refined.
Perfect for banishing a slick complexion, this mattifying mask combines charcoal powder with rich mineral clays to soak up excess sebums, toxins and impurities for a clearer, more refreshed complexion. Apply a thin layer onto clean, dry skin and wait about 15 minutes as the mask dries. Rinse thoroughly with cool water for noticeably more refined skin texture. We also love dabbing this directly onto angry zits as an overnight treatment.
As one of the first bubble masks that went viral online, it applies like a regular clay mask but as it rests on your skin, oxygen is gradually released, which is said to keep acne-causing bacteria at bay. Theatrics aside, it contains charcoal extract to purify pores, eliminate dead skin cells and excess sebum. Green tea extract infuses skin with antioxidants while collagen extract seals in moisture for brighter, plumper skin.
Equivalent to a fairy godmother for congestion-prone skin, this calming clay mask works quickly and gently to combat breakouts, roughness and dullness. In addition to kaolin clay, this SOS mask also contains ground almonds to exfoliate, camphor to sweep away dead skin cells, and honey to nourish skin. Leave on for twenty minutes and let this multi-benefits mask go to work, reducing the appearance of blackheads, redness, shine, puffiness and uneven skin texture.
A perfect balance between deep cleansing and replenishing, this non-drying clay mask uses the brand’s proprietary ingredient, Umbrian Clay, to alleviate congestion without stripping skin of its essential moisture. Thanks to its high mineral content, skin is also rebalanced and clarified. Sandalwood oil, chamomile flower and lavendar water are also added to further soothe skin and minimise irritation. Use once or twice a week for visibly clearer, more refined pores.
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