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The 8 Best Clay Masks For Acne Prone Skin
by Lisa Fogarty

Clay masks are no longer just another beauty trend — they're a skin care staple that many of us are relying on more than ever to provide a weekly deep cleanse. The best clay masks for acne prone skin are those that contain bentonite clay that have anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as white or kaolin clays that can purify skin and draw out impurities from deep within your pores.

Maybe you've been searching high and low for a clay mask that can soften irritated acne prone skin and reduce the appearance of pores — look no further than healing green clays. Honestly, there's a clay out there to suit the needs of every kind of acne, but they all share one thing in common: they're natural and usually so gentle even the most sensitive skin types can benefit from them.

Whether you'd love to get your hands on loose clay so that you can whip up your own DIY facials using apple cider vinegar and essential oils, or require a pre-made clay facial treatment that is already packed to the gills with goodness (like added activated charcoal or botanicals), there's a clay out there that's perfect for you.

1

Loose Bentonite Clay For DIY Blackhead Treatments

Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay, $10, Amazon

Create your own DIY blackheads treatments with the help of this loose bentonite clay, which can be mixed with water, apple cider vinegar, and a variety of essential oils to make personalized facials. Leave this clay on your skin for a few minutes and you can actually feel it absorb impurities from your pores — and they'll actually look smaller and tighter.

2

A Gel Clay Mask With Mineral Mud That Absorbs Excess Oils

Laneige Mini Pore Waterclay Mask, $24, Amazon

This unique gel-like clay mask is made from mineral mud from the Yellow Sea that absorbs oils and sebum and helps make oily skin appear more matte. Apply this mask after toner, wait eight minutes, and wash it off — your pores will look more refined and, with regular use, can help your skin stay balanced.

3

A Soothing And Cooling Wash-Off Mask With Clay And Charcoal

Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask, $26, Amazon

A powerful combination of active charcoal powder, kaolin clay, and bentonite clay in this wash-off charcoal mask deliver effective results that include cleaner pores, a reduction in acne, and more radiant looking skin. Reviewers say it gives a soothing, cooling sensation that lets you know it's working.

4

A Carbonated Bubble Mask That Provides A Deep Clean

Elizavecca Milky Piggy Carbonated Bubble Clay Mask, $10, Amazon

It's the super fun, Sci-Fi carbonated bubble clay mask you need in your life — one rich in clay mud, charcoal powder, and green tea extract that clears out clogged pores and bubbles up on your face as it's working its magic. Your pores will look tighter and be much cleaner, but moisturizing ingredients in this mask will keep your skin soft and smooth.

5

Four Types Of Clay Masks That Address Oily Skin's Needs

L'Oreal Paris Pure Clay Mask, $9, Amazon

Choose among four clay mask types that address different skin concerns: oily, acne prone skin will get the most benefit from L'Oreal's charcoal mask, which draws out impurities, green clay that rebalances oils and mattifies shiny skin, and red Ghassoul clay that exfoliates dead skin cells and clears out congested pores.

6

A Multipurpose Bentonite Clay That Works On Your Face, Body, & Scalp

Premium Nature Bentonite Clay, $11, Amazon

Another goodie for DIY facials, this jar of loose bentonite clay will last you forever (or at the very least it will feel that way). Use it on your face, body, and even your scalp — it will help balance your body's natural oils and remove excess sebum that clogs pores and contributes to acne.

7

A Mud Mask With Dead Sea Minerals That Makes Pores Look Tiny

Pure Body Naturals Dead Sea Mud Mask, $14, Amazon

You can't actually shrink your pores, but you can keep them so squeaky clean with the help of this Dead Sea Mud Mask treatment that they appear smaller. This mask is rich in nourishing minerals like magnesium, sodium, calcium, and potassium that helps cleanse, remove dead skin cells, and uncover a bright and healthy looking complexion.

8

An Organic Deep Pore Cleansing Mask & Spot Treatment

Beauty by Earth Hydrating Face Mask, $17, Amazon

Take the deep pore cleansing magic found in bentonite and kaolin clays, add soothing shea butter, organic jojoba oil, and algae extract and what do you get? A face mask and spot treatment that brightens dull skin, lifts dirt and excess oils from pores, and is hydrating enough for dry and sensitive skin types.

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