13 clay masks that unclog your pores to give you clear skin

This contains charcoal to get rid of impurities and excess oils, and tea tree oil, which has antiseptic properties that are great for breakouts.

This mask, which contains kaolin clay and magnesium sulfate, heats up as you massage it onto your skin, opening pores and drawing out impurities.

Looking for a mask that not only deep-cleanses but also hydrates? This one contains salicylic and glycolic acids to slough away dead skin cells and impurities, and hyaluronic acid to hydrate skin.

Enriched with Spanish clay and sweet almond oil, this mask not only draws out and eliminates impurities, but also nourishes your skin. The Frangipani Flower extract will help soothe skin, especially during flare-ups.

Perfect for banishing a slick complexion, this mattifying mask combines charcoal powder with rich mineral clays to soak up excess sebum, 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.

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 matte, supple and smooth.

If you’re looking at targeting enlarged pores, dullness and soothing skin all at the same time, this is the mask for you. In addition to French Green Clay, which has its skin-refining benefits, it also contains turmeric and ginger to brighten skin and counter redness. Vitamin E is also added to the mix to provide antioxidants and nourishing properties for well-balanced skin. All you have to do is mix two spoonfuls of the mask into two spoonfuls of water, whip it into a paste and apply onto skin for five to 10 minutes.

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 off dead skin while replenishing skin with moisture so skin texture is refined without leaving it dry and tight.

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.

For a more refined appearance of pores and less sheen, mix the 100 percent natural calcium bentonite clay, with equal parts of apple cider vinegar or water before applying. As with most clay masks, you’ll feel a stiff and tight sensation as it sets after about 15-20 minutes (if your skin is prone to sensitivity, begin with five 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.

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 natural moisture. Thanks to its high mineral content, skin is also rebalanced and clarified. Sandalwood oil, chamomile flower and lavender water are also added to further soothe skin and minimise irritation. Use one or two times a week for visibly clearer, more refined pores.

Is this list even complete without the Glamglow Clearing Treatment mask? Known for its ability to combat multiple skin concerns like blemishes, redness, scars, or 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.

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. One hundred percent natural rose essential oil is also added to help calm skin and provide a soothing scent.

This story was originally published on Cleo.