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The best clay masks aren’t the moisture-sapping formulas of the past—in recent years, they’ve evolved into skin barrier-friendly staples. Part of that has to do with the actual clay. “Clay masks can benefit most skin types, but the type of clay matters,” says Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Danville, CA. In other words, matching your mask to your skin’s needs can make the difference between a glowing complexion and an irritated one. “Kaolin clay is the most gentle and works well for sensitive or dry skin because it absorbs oil without being overly stripping,” Dr. Badreshia-Bansal says. “Bentonite clay is stronger and usually best for oily or acne-prone skin since it can draw out excess sebum and impurities more deeply.” Some masks combine kaolin and bentonite to offer the best of both worlds—deep cleansing power and a comfortable, non-stripping feel.
Our Top Clay Masks
- Best Overall: Shani Darden Signature Nourishing Facial Mask, $58
- Best for Acne-Prone Skin: SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Masque, $70
- Best for Oily Skin: Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask to Clear Pores, $39
- Best for Uneven Texture: Ole Henriksen Cold Plunge Pore Clay Mask, $42
- Best for Dull Skin: Caudalie Instant Detox Mask, $42
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Sisley-Paris Radiant Glow Express Mask, $160
- Best for Dry Skin: La Mer The Deep Purifying Mask, $175
On top of the type of clay, today’s formulas are far less likely to leave your skin parched. Many are now enriched with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and botanical extracts, such as aloe, which help keep skin hydrated and balanced while clearing pores and absorbing excess oil. (Heads up: Even so, Dr. Badreshia-Bansal recommends using a clay mask once or twice a week for optimal results since excessive use can lead to dryness or irritation.) Read on for our dermatologist-approved picks for the best clay masks that leave your complexion feeling soft, comfortable, and glowing.
Best Overall: Shani Darden Signature Nourishing Facial Mask
Shani Darden
Signature Nourishing Facial Mask
Amazon
Sephora
Revolve
Allure senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen applying the Shani Darden Signature Nourishing Facial Mask
Nicola Dall'Asen
Why it's worth it: If it wasn’t obvious by now, at Allure HQ, we’re total Shani Darden stans. The esthetician behind Hollywood’s glowiest complexions (and our editor-in-chief’s, thanks to her chemical peel) has also blessed us with the Signature Nourishing Facial Mask, the next best thing to booking one of her coveted spa treatments. The rich, creamy formula hydrates skin deeply, soothes redness, and helps strengthen the skin's barrier, leaving everything feeling balanced. Hyaluronic acid plumps, colloidal oatmeal soothes, and tea extracts provide skin with antioxidants. Smooth it on with the handy included brush after cleansing, kick back for 10 to 15 minutes, and rinse off.
Dall’Asen before applying the Shani Darden Signature Nourishing Facial Mask
Nicola Dall'Asen
Dall’Asen after applying the Shani Darden Signature Nourishing Facial Mask
Nicola Dall'Asen
Tester feedback from senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen
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“You might associate clay masks with acne prevention or oil control, but this one goes far beyond that, thanks to the inclusion of squalane and colloidal oatmeal. Its thick, stark-white consistency might make me look like the ghost of a Victorian child for the 15 minutes I wear it, but it's worth it for the supple, soothed, renewed skin it leaves behind.” —Nicola Dall’Asen, senior news editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: kaolin, bentonite, squalane, colloidal oatmeal, white tea, green tea, chamomile
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Acne-Prone Skin: SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Masque
SkinCeuticals
Clarifying Clay Masque
SkinCeuticals
Dermstore
Bluemercury
Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying the SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Masque
Deanna Pai
Why it's worth it: SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Masque is a weekly reset for congested, breakout-prone skin. “This is one of the most elegant medical-grade clay masks, featuring kaolin and bentonite clays to draw out impurities along with alpha-hydroxy acids to gently exfoliate dead skin cells,” says Dr. Badreshia-Bansal. She notes that this balanced formula goes beyond basic pore-clearing to deliver a polished, refined finish. “On top of it being great for patients dealing with clogged pores, uneven texture, or mild breakouts, it doesn’t overdry the skin, especially when used once a week as part of an exfoliating routine,” she says. Soothing botanicals, such as aloe vera and chamomile, keep the skin comfortable as the mask refines pores and absorbs excess oil. Soothing botanicals, such as “aloe vera and chamomile, keep the skin comfortable while reducing redness that often is associated with acne,” adds Adriana Lombardi, a board-certified dermatologist based in Edison, NJ.
Pai before applying the SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Masque
Deanna Pai
Pai after applying the SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Masque
Deanna Pai
Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai
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“I've hit empty on this jar and then restocked—it's just that good. I love the combo of AHAs and clay, which offer both exfoliation and some good, old pore-clearing goodness. It's super-satisfying to see it dry onto my skin and suck gunk out of my nose, and even as my skin has gotten drier with age, it never feels tight or uncomfortable when I rinse.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: kaolin, bentonite, aloe, chamomile, malic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, glycolic acid
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Oily Skin: Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask to Clear Pores
Origins
Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask to Clear Pores
Origins
Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask to Clear Pores
Sarah Han
Why it's worth it: There are countless reasons we crowned Origins’ Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask to Clear Pores as one of our all-time favorite gems from the ever-reliable skin-care brand. This clarifying clay mask pairs kaolin and bentonite clays with bamboo charcoal to draw out pore-clogging impurities and sweep away excess oil—without leaving your skin feeling parched. Glycerin helps maintain a balanced and comfortable complexion, while antioxidant-rich myrtle leaf water provides a protective boost. The silky formula glides on effortlessly, dries comfortably (without the dreaded “frozen face” stiffness), and rinses clean to reveal fresh, smoother, and visibly clearer skin.
Han with the Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask to Clear Pores applied to her face
Sarah Han
Han after applying the Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask to Clear Pores
Sarah Han
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
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"Is there a clay mask that's more deserving of "tried-and-true" status? Don't think so. Origins's is so gentle but not in the sense of pulling gunk out, because it goes all in in that regard—my combination skin loves the weekly reset this mask gives it. Special shoutout to the bamboo charcoal which helps minimize excess oil that can form blackheads, my arch nemeses. Sometimes, I'll slather this on twice a week but just on my T-zone to quell that inevitably temperamental area." —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: kaolin, bentonite, glycerin, charcoal powder, myrtle leaf water
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Uneven Texture: Ole Henriksen Cold Plunge Pore Clay Mask
Ole Henriksen
Cold Plunge Pore Clay Mask
Ulta Beauty
Sephora
Allure commerce writer Lily Wohlner applying the Ole Henriksen Cold Plunge Pore Clay Mask
Lily Wohlner
Why it's worth it: Don’t let the vibrant violet hue fool you, because Ole Henriksen Cold Plunge Pore Clay Mask is more than just a cool selfie moment. Purple kaolin clay absorbs excess oil, while the combination of purple willow ferment and salicylic acid works together to refine pores, clear blackheads, and sweep away buildup. As it dries to a marbled finish, the mask delivers a refreshing cooling effect—like a mini cold plunge for your face (hence the name)—that detoxes without stripping, leaving skin feeling clean, nourished, and never tight.
Wohlner before applying the Ole Henriksen Cold Plunge Pore Clay Mask
Lily Wohlner
Wohlner after applying the Ole Henriksen Cold Plunge Pore Clay Mask
Lily Wohlner
Tester feedback from commerce writer Lily Wohlner
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More to know
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- Key ingredients: kaolin, purple clay, purple willow ferment, salicylic acid
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Dull Skin: Caudalie Instant Detox Mask
Caudalie
Instant Detox Mask
Amazon
Nordstrom
Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin applying the Caudalie Instant Detox Mask
Sarah Felbin
Why it's worth it: Caudalie has a thing for grape seed polyphenols—the antioxidant MVP behind its entire skin-care lineup—and they shine in the Instant Detox Mask, too. Made with pink clay (a mix of kaolin and bentonite), glycerin, and lactic acid, “it’s a light, fast-absorbing mask with a soft finish that clears pores without tightness,” says Dr. Karcher. To take things up a notch, caffeine energizes dull, tired skin for an instant wake-up call. Even though it's free of synthetic fragrances, the formula still features nourishing botanical oils like sandalwood, lavender, and bergamot to keep your skin moisturized and smelling fresh.
Felbin before applying the Caudalie Instant Detox Mask
Sarah Felbin
Felbin after applying the Caudalie Instant Detox Mask
Sarah Felbin
Tester feedback from senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin
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“This is the most satisfying clay mask I've ever used. You only need a thin layer, which tightens a TON as it dries. I'm always impressed by how much it pulls out of my pores—you can literally see every individual pore and the oil the mask has absorbed. After I wash it off, my skin has a fresh glow and my blackheads are noticeably smaller. I recommend this mask to everyone I know!” —Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: kaolin, bentonite, grape seed polyphenols, caffeine, glycerin, lactic acid
- Fragrance-free: no
Best for Sensitive Skin: Sisley-Paris Radiant Glow Express Mask
Sisley-Paris
Radiant Glow Express Mask
Nordstrom
Bluemercury
Allure shopping director Shanna Shipin applying the Sisley-Paris Radiant Glow Express Mask
Shanna Shipin
Why it's worth it: Working in just three minutes, Sisley’s Radiant Glow Express Mask with Red Clay is a quick fix for irritation-prone or congested skin. The red and white clays do the heavy lifting by clearing impurities and tightening pores without over-drying. Rosemary and chamomile swoop in to soothe and comfort, while red vine helps even out your skin tone, glycerin replenishes moisture, and rosehip adds a nourishing boost. Unlike some clay masks, it won’t morph into a crunchy layer as it dries—just a smooth, comfortable detox for your skin. “It’s soothing yet effective, improving clarity and radiance without leaving skin dry or tight,” says Dr. Henry.
Shipin before applying the Sisley-Paris Radiant Glow Express Mask
Shanna Shipin
Shipin after applying the Sisley-Paris Radiant Glow Express Mask
Shanna Shipin
Tester feedback from shopping director Shanna Shipin
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“What a treat this mask is. I use sunscreen, makeup, and plenty of moisturizer throughout the day, and this is what I turn to to slough it all off. Given that I have sensitive skin and eczema, I typically steer clear of clay masks, but this formula never dries me out. It glides on (and smells heavenly while it's at it—hello, rosemary and chamomile!), and is so easy to remove. There's no need for tugging or over-cleansing. As I have two kids and virtually no time to myself, even in the bathroom, I appreciate that it takes as little as three minutes to see the benefits. Whenever I use this, I am immediately (yes, immediately!) glowing afterwards. Like, post-facial-level glow—one worthy of a Twilight vampire—and without a hint of an over-stripped skin barrier. The chamomile is soothing, the clay draws gunk out of my pores, and the glycerin nourishes my skin. If I could use this every day, I would.” —Shanna Shipin, shopping director
More to know
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- Key ingredients: kaolin, rosehip, red vine, chamomile, rosemary
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Dry Skin: La Mer The Deep Purifying Mask
La Mer
The Deep Purifying Mask
Nordstrom
Sephora
Bluemercury
Why it's worth it: As if its striking emerald-green hue didn’t already give it away, La Mer’s Deep Purifying Mask pairs the brand’s legendary algae extract (Miracle Broth) with serious detox power. “It’s a nice, creamy, cooling, luxurious mask that applies easily with a smooth glide,” says Cheryl Karcher, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. The formula features bentonite and kaolin clays for deep cleansing and oil absorption, while glycolic, salicylic, and lactic acids gently exfoliate to refine skin texture. This combination “deeply purifies and detoxifies while still hydrating and soothing the skin,” says Michelle Henry, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. To amplify the glow, bamboo, charcoal, sea salt, pearl powder, and tourmaline work in harmony, leaving skin clarified, refreshed, and radiant without ever feeling stripped. Perfect for all skin types, it draws out impurities, minimizes the appearance of pores, and eliminates dullness. But honestly, when it comes to La Mer, you don’t really ask questions; once you try it, you believe it.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: kaolin, bentonite, Miracle Broth (algae extract), charcoal powder, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid
- Fragrance-free: no
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of clay mask is best for acne?
Bentonite- and kaolin-based purifying clay masks are excellent for acne-prone skin. Both are highly absorptive, drawing out excess oil that clogs pores and contributes to breakouts. “These clays deeply purify while remaining gentle, so you get effective oil control without over-drying,” says Dr. Henry. Since blemishes are closely tied to overactive oil glands, using a mask with these clays helps reduce one of the main triggers of acne. Balanced formulas—especially those paired with hydrating or soothing ingredients—are best, as they “detoxify while still hydrating and soothing the skin,” preventing irritation that can worsen breakouts, says Dr. Henry.
Will a clay mask dry out my skin?
“The best clay masks today balance oil control with hydration from ingredients like glycerin and aloe, so they detoxify without leaving your skin parched,” says Dr. Bansal. To further sidestep the dreaded tight, overly matte feeling, “it’s smart to look for formulas enriched with calming, hydrating additions—like chamomile, rosehip, or botanical oils—that soften the traditional clay ‘dry down’ effect, says Dr. Henry.
Meet the experts
- Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and RealSelf expert, based in Danville, CA
- Michelle Henry, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Skin & Aesthetic Surgery, based in New York City
- Cheryl Karcher, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Center Aesthetic & Dermatology, based in New York City
- Adriana Lombardi, a board-certified dermatologist at Skin Cancer & Cosmetic Surgery based in Edison, NJ
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that's included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of the best clay masks, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it's never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
