What does a clay mask do?

“It thoroughly cleanses pores while lifting impurities to the surface and drying any existing blemishes," says Melanie Grant, facialist and celebrity esthetician. "If dull, congested, oily skin is normal for you, I recommend including clay within your regime.”

How do you use and remove a clay mask?

Grant suggests “painting your preferred clay mask onto the skin directly after cleansing. Leave on for 10 to 15 minutes and gently rinse away with warm water in gentle, circular motions.”

How often should you use a clay mask?

It comes down to the specific mask being used and your skin type, but once a week is probably a good benchmark. It’s important to remember that clay can be a powerful ingredient, so tread carefully.

Which type of clay is best to use?

While it varies from brand to brand, certain types of clay can be better suited to certain skin conditions (for example, bentonite is great for acne-prone skin). Your best bet is to check out other ingredients within the product to decide if it’s right for your complexion.

The 13 Best Clay Masks of 2023

The 16 Best Clay Masks, Tested by Byrdie — Byrdie / Chloe Jeong

Whether your skin is dull, congested, bumpy, or shiny, a clay mask is hands-down one of the best treatments to refine and rebalance. “Clay masks are good for a wide variety of skin types and skin concerns,” explains Dr. Jeannette Graf, a Board-Certified Dermatologist. “They can brighten your skin, absorb excess oils and toxins, hydrate, prevent breakouts, restore the skin’s balance, regulate sebum production, oxygenate your cells, and more.”

So no matter what your skin type, it’s a great product to have on hand as either a quick fix or weekly ritual. But not all clays (and clay masks) are the same, so it’s important to choose a formulation that aligns with your needs. For example, oily complexions will fare well with a detoxifying option whereas dry complexions will require additional moisture.

To help you find the one, we’ve called on the expertise of Dr. Graf, esthetician Melanie Grant, and our team of editors to share their favorite clay mask formulas.

Meet the Expert

Dr. Jeannette Graf is a Board-Certified Dermatologist and Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Mt Sinai School of Medicine.
Melanie Grant is an esthetician, facialist, skin expert, and the founder of Melanie Grant Skin Health, a clinic with outposts in Sydney, Melbourne, and Los Angeles.

Keep reading to find the best clay masks available.

Our Top Picks

Best for Overall:

Innisfree Pore Clearing Clay Mask 2X at Amazon

Jump to Review

Runner-Up, Best Overall:

Caudalie Vinergetic C Instant Detox Mask at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Drugstore:

L'Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Detox Face Mask at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Dry Skin:

Fresh Umbrian Clay Face Mask

Jump to Review

Best for Blackheads:

Kiehl's Deep Pore Cleansing Mask at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Sensitive Skin:

Klur Supreme Seed Delicate Purification Mask at Credo Beauty

Jump to Review

Best for Acne-Prone Skin:

Rosen Tingling Mud Mask at Nordstrom

Jump to Review

Best Splurge:

Dr. Barbara Sturm Face Mask at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Hormonal Breakouts:

Biba de Sousa Calming Sulfur and Zinc Mask at Bibalosangeles.com

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
Final Verdict
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Byrdie

Sephora

View On Amazon View On Sephora View On Innisfree.com

What We Like

Gentle
Exfoliates
Makes the skin feel fresh

What We Don’t Like

Not ideal for sensitive skin

Innisfree Pore Clearing Clay Mask 2X Review

Who else recommends it? PopSugar, Who What Wear, and Spy all picked the Innisfree Pore Clearing Clay Mask 2X.

What do buyers say? 1,000+ Sephora reviewers rated this product 4.6 stars or above.

“This mask is ideal for all skin types,” notes Dr. Graf. It utilizes volcanic clusters and alpha-hydroxy acids to minimize the look of pores, absorb sebum, gently exfoliate, deeply cleanse, even out the skin tone, and cleanse away debris.”

I also swear by this mask as a spot treatment, sharing that the whipped clay formula manages to shrink angry spots without over-drying the skin. Keep it on hand for breakout emergencies.

Price at time of publish: $15

innisfree super volcanic clusters pore clearing clay mask — Byrdie / Bianca Lambert

What Our Testers Say

"The clay brought my whiteheads up and soaked up the excess oil from my t-zone and cheek areas on the first use." — Bianca Lambert, Product Tester

Caudalie Vinergetic C Instant Detox Mask

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Sephora

What We Like

Works quickly in 10 minutes
Hydrates the skin
Adds radiance

What We Don’t Like

May not be suitable for sensitive skin

This TikTok-famous mask is seriously impressive. It contains a blend of white and bentonite clay (two ingredients Dr. Graf says are great for exfoliating, refining, and deeply cleansing the skin) plus antioxidants to unveil an instantly radiant complexion. As it dries, you can almost see it absorbing dirt and oil from within the pore, making for a very satisfying masking experience.

Price at time of publish: $42

Active Ingredients: Kaolin clay, bentonite clay, grapeseed, polyphenols, and caffeine | Size: 2.5 ounces | Benefits: Cleanses and tightens pores in 10 minutes | Skin Type: Normal, Combination, and Oily | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Cruelty-Free: Yes

4.6

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On IHerb

What We Like

Only one ingredient
Affordable
Antibacterial

What We Don’t Like

Needs to be mixed (a tad messy)

Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay Review

This internet-famous powdered clay mask uses 100% bentonite clay formed from volcanic ash to purify and tighten the pores. Bentonite is deeply cleansing and is said to have antibacterial properties that assist with skin healing.

“It has no preservatives, fragrances, or chemicals which is also great for sensitive skin,” says Dr. Graf. “It’s multi-use for the face or body and is known for purifying the pores, fighting acne, and even reducing the look of scars. I would recommend this mask over other affordable or drug-store sheet masks for sensitive or acne-prone skin.”

Price at time of publish: $15

Walgreens

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Walgreens

What We Like

Affordable
Reduces shine and boosts radiance
Effectively softens the skin

What We Don’t Like

Not ideal for sensitive skin

Packed with three types of clay (including kaolin, montmorillonite, and ghassoul), this hard-working drugstore mask is a nice weekly treatment for oily, congested skin. It helps to reduce shine, smooth the skin’s surface, and clean out the pores, not to mention immediately boosting radiance. It also contains added charcoal, an ingredient that can absorb dirt and excess sebum.

Price at time of publish: $13

Fresh Umbrian Clay Pore Purifying Face Mask

Courtesy of Sephora

View on Ulta View On Amazon View On Sephora

What We Like

A little goes a long way
Reusable packaging
Multi-purpose: spot treater, purifier, and cleanser

What We Don’t Like

Pricey

Fresh Umbrian Clay Pore Purifying Face Mask Review

Using Umbrian clay sourced from Italy, this mineral-rich mask is a favorite among Byrdie editors for its ability to soothe and calm a range of skin types. Umbrian clay is said to be packed with various minerals that work to promote a calm, clear complexion. Use it all over as a weekly treatment or to target spots and breakouts.

Price at time of publish: $56

Kiehl's

View On Amazon View On Sephora View On Ulta

What We Like

Gently exfoliates
Hydrates the skin up to 24 hours
Leaves a clean feeling

What We Don’t Like

Pricey

Using fairly-sourced white clay from the Amazon, this gentle but hard-working mask leaves the skin feeling squeaky clean but not stripped (thanks to the creamy consistency and inclusion of hydrators like aloe vera). White clay also functions as a “gentle exfoliant” according to Dr. Graf, making this a useful pick for dull, congested, or breakout-prone skin.

Price at time of publish: $20

Credo Beauty

View On Credo Beauty View On Klur.co

What We Like

Gentle formula soothes and calms the skin
Clean, natural formula
Smells good

What We Don’t Like

Pricey

Clay masks aren’t known for being the most gentle, which is why we recommend this soothing weekly treatment from Klur for those with more sensitive skin. Formulated to drive in nutrients while drawing out impurities, it relies on kaolin clay to gently purify and decongest clogged pores. Then, a soothing and balancing blend of panthenol (vitamin B5), calendula, and cacao comes in to calm, soothe, and reduce redness and irritation. The result? A clearer, smoother, and glowier complexion. Did we mention it smells absolutely delicious?

Price at time of publish: $60

Courtesy of Nordstrom

View On Nordstrom View On Rosenskincare.com

What We Like

Controls sebum production while killing acne-causing bacteria
Clean formula
Tingles as it gets to work

What We Don't Like

Not ideal for sensitive skin

Zits and blemishes are no match for this mud mask, which counts on a blend of zinc oxide, bentonite clay, and tea tree oil to attack acne-causing bacteria and regulate sebum production within the skin. Also nice? You can feel your skin tingle as this hard-hitting formula gets to work.

Price at time of publish: $18

Courtesy of SpaceNK

View On Amazon View On Sephora View On Cultbeauty.com

What We Like

Hydrates the skin
Doesn't feel harsh
Purslane supports regeneration and hydration

What We Don’t Like

Might break out acne-prone skin

Aesthetic medicine specialist, Dr. Barbara Sturm applied her knowledge of molecular science to create a line of effective skincare products that focus on reducing inflammation. The Face Mask combines aloe vera, vitamin E, and chamomile on a base of white kaolin clay to absorb excess shine while refining the look of pores. According to Byrdie Contributor Emily, the mask works best when you rub it off with your fingertips (as opposed to rinsing). The mini massage will leave you plump, smooth, and glowy.

Price at time of publish: $125

Biba de Sousa Calming Sulfur and Zinc Mask

Biba Los Angeles

View On Bibalosangeles.com

What We Like

Calms inflammation
Esthetician-developed
Even soothes insect bites

What We Don’t Like

A bit hard to wash off

For Byrdie contributor Emily, Los Angeles esthetician Biba de Sousa’s sulfur mask is the best breakout treatment of all time. The mix of bentonite, zinc, and sulfur work to reduce redness, minimize shine, and calm swelling fast. Try it as a spot treatment or on the t-zone to rebalance shine.

Price at time of publish: $59

Active Ingredients: Sulfur, zinc, bentonite clay, witch hazel | Size: 1.97 ounces | Benefits: Works in minutes to purify pores, free skin of unwanted oil, and begin drying blemishes | Skin Type: Oily, Acne-Prone | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Philosophy Purity Made Simple Pore Extractor Exfoliating Clay Mask

Courtesy of Nordstrom

View on Ulta View On Amazon View On Nordstrom

What We Like

Exfoliates blackheads
Minimizes pores
Balances skin
Non-greasy

What We Don’t Like

Contains fragrance
Slightly messy to apply

Dealing with large pores around the t-zone? Philosophy’s Exfoliating Clay Mask is formulated to buff away congestion and refine the skin’s appearance thanks to a mix of kaolin, bentonite, salicylic acid, and diatomaceous earth.

“This nutrient-rich face mask from Philosophy works to draw out dirt, debris, and excess oil, reducing pore size and minimizing blackheads,” says Dr. Graf. Try it anywhere oil flow is more prominent such as the nose, chin, or cheeks.

Price at time of publish: $37

Aspect Skincare

View On Aspectskincare.com

What We Like

Exfoliates in a soothing way
Creamy, easy-to-apply texture
Reveals a radiant healthy-looking complexion

What We Don’t Like

Not ideal for sensitive skin

“Kaolin and bentonite clays absorb excess oil and reduce impurities while alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids refine, tone, exfoliate, and remove the build-up of dirt from the skin,” explains Dr. Graf.

So if you want to simultaneously exfoliate, smooth, and decongest, Aspect’s hard-working clay mask formula is Dr. Graf’s number one choice.

Courtesy of Rescue Spa

View On Amazon View On Shoprescuespa.com

What We Like

Boosts radiance
Not too intense for dry skin
Decongests skin
Packed with amino acids

What We Don’t Like

Pricey
Weird smell

“I always recommend this purifying mask to oily, revitalized, or congested skin,” says Grant. “It's rich in lactic acid, fermented yeast, and probiotics to improve cellular turnover, smooth rough texture, and support the delicate acid mantle.”

While it does smell like Vegemite (thanks to the high concentration of yeast), this iconic exfoliating clay has countless celebrity fans, so trust us when we say the funky scent is worth the glowing results.

Price at time of publish: $115

Final Verdict

With so many clay masks on the market, it’s difficult to just choose one. But if we had to play favorites, we’d call out Caudalie’s Instant Detox Mask alongside Biba de Sousa’s Calming Sulfur and Zinc Mask as our top picks. Both contain clay to cleanse the skin, plus other actives to reduce congestion and rebalance oil production. Our runner-up is Biologique Recherche Masque Vivant because it works quickly to transform sluggish, tired skin into something smooth, radiant, and clear.

What to Look For in a Clay Mask

According to Dr. Graf, the type of clay should be a determining factor when choosing a clay mask: “There are four different main types of clay that are used for skin health,” she explains. “Although all types of clay used in skin products are meant to draw out impurities and gently cleanse the skin, some are better than others for your skin type.”

White Clay

"White clay works well with all skin types, especially mature skin, to draw out excess oils and dirt. It is a gentle exfoliant that will refine the surface of your skin and work to reduce pore size.” To note: Kaolin clay is a type of white clay.

Green Clay

"Green clay is the go-to for people with oily, acne-prone, or combination skin types. It balances pH levels while also acting as a strong cleanser. It soaks up excess oils that can lead to the clogging of pores and acne.”

Pink Clay

"Pink clay can help to improve skin elasticity and cell renewal, which is also ideal for mature skin that has begun to lose its elasticity. Pink clay is a gentle exfoliant and very light on the skin.”

Bentonite Clay

"Bentonite clay is an extremely efficient detoxing and rejuvenating clay that is suitable for many skin types, but especially oily and acne-prone. It lightly exfoliates and cleanses to draw out excess oils and impurities, restoring mineral levels, and removing toxins.”

FAQ

What does a clay mask do?

“It thoroughly cleanses pores while lifting impurities to the surface and drying any existing blemishes," says Melanie Grant, facialist and celebrity esthetician. "If dull, congested, oily skin is normal for you, I recommend including clay within your regime.”
How do you use and remove a clay mask?

Grant suggests “painting your preferred clay mask onto the skin directly after cleansing. Leave on for 10 to 15 minutes and gently rinse away with warm water in gentle, circular motions.”
How often should you use a clay mask?

It comes down to the specific mask being used and your skin type, but once a week is probably a good benchmark. It’s important to remember that clay can be a powerful ingredient, so tread carefully.
Which type of clay is best to use?

While it varies from brand to brand, certain types of clay can be better suited to certain skin conditions (for example, bentonite is great for acne-prone skin). Your best bet is to check out other ingredients within the product to decide if it’s right for your complexion.

Why Trust Byrdie

Emily Algar is an experienced freelance writer who covers all things beauty. Her work has also appeared in Popsugar, Vogue Australia, Grazia, Cosmopolitan, and more.

The 16 Best Face Masks of 2023 for Glowing Skin

Article Sources

Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.

The best clay masks for every skin type. PopSugar. https://www.popsugar.com/beauty/photo-gallery/48773650/image/48773653/Best-Clay-Mask-For-Blackheads-Innisfree-Pore-Clearing-Clay-Mask
This mask cleared my skin, tightened my pores, and lifted my face—all for $13. Who What Wear. https://www.whowhatwear.com/best-clay-face-masks
The best clay masks rejuvenate and refresh like no other skin care product. Spy. https://spy.com/articles/grooming/skincare/best-clay-masks-1202738724
Pazyar N, Yaghoobi R, Kazerouni A, Feily A. Oatmeal in dermatology: a brief review. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol. 2012;78(2):142-145. doi:10.4103/0378-6323.93629
Sanchez N, Fayne R, Burroway B. Charcoal: An ancient material with a new face. Clin Dermatol. 2020;38(2):262-264. doi:10.1016/j.clindermatol.2019.07.025

Best for Overall

Innisfree Pore Clearing Clay Mask 2X

Runner-Up, Best Overall

Caudalie Vinergetic C Instant Detox Mask

Best Budget

Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay

Best Drugstore

L'Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Detox & Brighten Face Mask

Best for Dry Skin

Fresh Umbrian Clay Pore Purifying Face Mask

Best for Blackheads

Kiehl's Rare Earth Deep Pore Minimizing Cleansing Clay Mask

Best for Sensitive Skin

Klur Supreme Seed Delicate Purification Mask

Best for Acne-Prone Skin

Rosen Tingling Mud Mask

Best Splurge

Dr. Barbara Sturm Face Mask

Best for Hormonal Breakouts

Biba de Sousa Calming Sulfur and Zinc Mask

Best for Large Pores

Philosophy Purity Made Simple Pore Extractor

Best Exfoliating

Aspect Exfoliating Clay Mask

Best Brightening

Biologique Recherche Masque Vivant

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