10 Oil-Absorbing Clay Masks for a Radiant, Grease-Free Complexion

When it comes to having oily skin, occasionally, you need to tweak your go-to products with the seasons. During the warmer months, sweat is at an all-time high, and if you live in an urban area, pollution and microscopic impurities are both bound to be problems for your pores. Chances are, your complexion is greasier during this time, and you're dealing with more blackheads than usual.

Although there are tons of face serums and elixirs to choose from, we always break out a detoxifying clay mask to give our pores the revamp they're desperate for.

The Best Clay Masks

The Benefits of Clay Masks

Oily skin types, rejoice! According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Hadley King, M.D., clay masks are great for balancing your skin while addressing any acne-causing impurities. They typically reveal a more even, smooth, and mattified complexion. “Clay is a popular ingredient because it absorbs sebum and has antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties,” says King.

Another reason why you’ve seen clay masks slathered on some of your favorite beauty icons: They’re perfect for photos! “I think that one reason clay masks are trending right now is the Instagram effect — clay masks make for the perfect self-care selfie,” King adds.

How to Shop

Type of Clay for Your Skin Type and Sensitivity Level

If you've used clay masks before, then you've probably noticed that there are a variety of clays used in different formulas. That's because each clay targets different skin issues, according to King. There are tons of clays to choose from, but she says these types are the most common:

Bentonite Clay

• Looks: It varies in color — some are white or green, like the Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay, while others are light gray.
• Skin types: Oily and acne-prone skin will love bentonite clay because it soaks up sebum, aka the oily, waxy film that gives you a grease-slicked look and feel.
• Avoid if: Bentonite clay is very absorbent, so dry or sensitive skin types may find it to be too intense.
• How it works: It also has a “slight negative electric charge” that can help pull impurities like acne-causing bacteria out of the skin. “When the clay is mixed with water it becomes very porous, giving it an extensive surface area and it can absorb more oil and impurities,” she says.
• Frequency: Use a bentonite clay mask up to three times a week.

Rhassoul

• Looks: This brown Moroccan clay feels rich and luxurious when you slather it on, and it's filled with minerals that make this option less drying.
• Skin types: Everyone, including mature and sensitive skin types.
• How it works: This clay has a stronger negative charge than bentonite, so it'll effectively draw out oil and bacteria. It's such an amazing absorbing agent that rhassoul is even used in hair products to remove excess buildup.
• Frequency: It is gentle enough to use daily in small doses (as in, via cleansers infused with it), but you may want to stick to one to three times per week if you're using it as a clay mask.

Kaolin

• Looks: The color varies from white to brown, although the AcneFree Kaolin Clay Detox Mask is beige.
• Skin types: Anyone can use a kaolin clay mask, but those with sensitive and dry skin types will appreciate its delicate touch.
• How it works: It provides gentle, mild exfoliation properties to soften the skin.
• Frequency: Kaolin clay is gentle enough to be used daily, but we suggest using it twice a week and upping the frequency based on how your skin reacts.

Other Clay Mask Ingredients

The rule of thumb is to always keep every ingredient in mind when it comes to your skincare products, and clay masks are no exception. Before you smear any of these masks on your face, remember your skin goals:

• For a lit-from-within glow: Choose a clay mask infused with brightening ingredients like vitamin C to help improve your skin's texture and add a radiant finish.
• For hydration: If you're looking for a mild detox that won't dry out your skin, avoid the harsher actives and opt for a clay mask that's paired with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or glycerin.
• For skin-balancing: “Clay and charcoal are popular ingredients for oily and acne-prone skin because they absorb sebum and have antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties,” says King. But you may want to be mindful of how long you leave these masks on — depending on the formulation, they can be too drying for dry or sensitive skin. Our best tip: Start slow and increase frequency as necessary.

Ready to finally banish acne and oil for good? Check out our guide to the best clay masks you can buy. Each product either comes recommended by King or was carefully researched by our beauty editor, Nicole Saunders, who considered their clay, texture, and smell. She also read thousands of online reviews to ensure each clay mask delivers on its respective promises. The best part? These clay masks all boast high ratings on Amazon and start at just $13!