Kaolin and bentonite clays absorb excess oil and reduce impurities,” explains Dr. Graf, which is why we love this mask from Origins that contains both. To simultaneously exfoliate, smooth, and decongest, you won’t regret giving this one a try. This pretty pink mask is formulated with clay (obviously), exfoliating jojoba beads, and soothing willowherb. The gritty little beads gently exfoliate the surface of the skin, while the willowherb and two types of clay work to restore and clarify. Our tester, who regularly uses a mask in her skincare routine, was surprised by how refreshing this mask felt, calling it a “deep cleanse.” After use, her skin felt clean and smooth. It’s also worth noting that the mask comes in a hygienic squeeze tube that deposits the mask into your hands, preventing contamination from grubby fingers.

You should also consider a formula’s additional ingredients when shopping for a clay mask. Extra exfoliating ingredients, like the TK in TK, can help speed the cell shedding process along, while hydration-boosting elements (like shea butter in buttah Charcoal Detox Mask) can prevent irritation. Pink clay (like the clay in Origins Original Skin Retexturizing Mask with Rose Clay) is ideal for improving skin elasticity and cell renewal. “This is also ideal for mature skin that has begun to lose its elasticity,” Dr. Graf shares. “Pink clay is a gentle exfoliator that’s light on the skin.” SKIN&LAB – Pink Clay Facial Mask– this cruelty-free product is brightening, purifying and pore refining treatment with French pink clay and Pink flower complex. Keep in mind that because the mask contains microbeads, you should take caution when applying it to the skin. If you’re too abrasive, you can run the risk of causing irritation. Like with any cosmetic ingredient, people might have individual intolerance to this type of clay. You always have to perform a patch test before applying any new product to your face.According to our tester, it feels like a “luxurious cream” that slowly dries down and feels slightly tingly. This didn’t really bother the tester; in fact, she said it was her favorite part about the mask. When she washed it off, she was in complete awe at the state of her skin, going as far as saying that the texture looked as smooth as “a baby’s bottom.” Plus, the pores on her nose—one of her biggest problem areas—looked like they shrunk in a matter of minutes, prompting her to call this mask a “masterpiece.”

When deciding between clay mask formulas, Dr. Graf recommends paying attention to the type of clay. “There are four different types of clay that are used in face masks for skin health,” she explains. “Although the 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.” It’s worth noting that although the mask targets pores, avocado oil (an ingredient present in the formula) can be potentially comedogenic for some skin types. We recommend testing the mask on a small patch of skin to see how it will react before applying it to your entire face. Green clay, like that of the clay in Ole Henriksen Cold Plunge Pore Mask, is a good go-to for people with oily, acne-prone skin. This type of clay balances pH levels and acts as a strong cleanser. “It soaks up excess oils that can lead to the clogging of pores and acne,” she adds. Upon application, the mask felt comfortable. As it dried, our tester noted that it got tighter and tighter, but never to the point where she felt like she couldn’t move. Once dried (around the 10-minute mark), it washed off easily and left her skin looking “brighter and cleaner than before application.” Whether you have dry skin and struggle with eczema or you have oily, blemish-prone skin , Pink Clay masks can help to calm the inflammation that comes part and parcel with these skin concerns .

When used regularly, the deeply cleansing and purifying Pink Clay mask can result in a smoother complexion with less bumps and congestion. 4. Balances Oil White clay (like the clay in Mario Badescu’s Super Collagen Mask) works well with all skin types—especially mature skin. “White clay draws out excess oils and dirt,” she says. “It’s a gentle exfoliant that refines the surface of the skin and works to reduce pore size.” To note: Kaolin clay is a type of white clay. Pink clay contains a high iron mineral content, making it great for clarifying and brightening,” Kizovski explains. “It is considered the mildest of clays while still providing potent oil absorbing properties.” This clay is very easy to mix at home. The rule of thumb is to pour liquids into clay (not the other way around). This way you will avoid any lumps and will have nice, smooth mixture. The huge advantage of pink clay masks is that they can produce instant results with the very first application. So, if you are anticipating an important event or a date, this mask will help you look your best in a short period of time.