Face masks for acne help prevent breakouts and reduce inflammation by removing dead skin, unclogging pores, and strengthening the skin barrier. Medical-grade masks with anti-inflammatory, non-comedogenic ingredients help minimize the damage caused by acne and soothe, hydrate, and nourish skin prone to flare-ups.
Discover the best face masks for acne and choose the most suitable one for your skin type and concern.
25 Best Face Masks for Acne
Face masks can alleviate many symptoms associated with acne, such as clogged pores, irritation, redness, and inflammation. They remove impurities, refine pores, and deeply hydrate the skin.
Read about the most effective face masks for acne that can soothe and nourish your skin.
1. Vibrant Skin Hydracell Gold Mask
This medical-grade face mask revitalizes and detoxifies the skin with 24-karat gold and charcoal.
Research shows that gold nanoparticles have potent antibacterial and antioxidant properties. The gold nourishes and hydrates the skin, while activated charcoal cleanses the face, removes excess sebum, and prevents breakouts by removing impurities from the pores.
You can get one for $24 or three for $60 at Vibrant Skin Bar shop. Free shipping is available with the code VSBMASK.
2. Vibrant Skin Bar Clear Hydracell Mask
This unique medical-grade gel mask provides excellent post-procedure hydration. It rebalances the skin’s natural oils and restores its elasticity with zinc, arnica, and copper.
Zinc promotes wound healing, arnica soothes irritation and treats bruising, and copper reduces inflammation while stimulating elasticity. The skin will become firm, supple, and toned.
Vibrant Skin Bar shop offers it for $24. You can get free shipping for two or more masks with the coupon code VSBMASK.
3. Vibrant Skin Bar CBD Recovery Mask
This facial sheet mask contains cannabidiol (CBD) and organic aloe vera, suitable for all skin types.
Studies confirm cannabidiol’s therapeutic potential for skin health and disorders. CBD has potent antimicrobial and anti-fungal qualities and inhibits sebocytes from producing too much sebum. Aloe vera’s antioxidant properties soothe inflamed skin, fight bacteria, and prevent acne scars from appearing.
You can get one for $24 or three for $60 at Vibrant Skin Bar shop. Free shipping is available if you buy three masks with the coupon code VSBMASK.
4. Omnilux Clear
Omnilux Clear is a home-use LED mask with clinically proven results for acne. Its advanced blue and red-light therapy helps to reduce blemishes, redness, and inflammation. It also minimizes acne scarring and softens skin texture.
This FDA-approved home-use device uses light-emitting diodes (LED) to lessen the appearance of mild to moderate acne. It works at the cellular level to eradicate acne-triggering bacteria.
Perform four 10-minute sessions each week for six weeks. After completing the initial treatment cycle, use the device at the first indication of a breakout.
Note: Read about the skin benefits of red-light therapy.
5. ZO Skin Health Complexion Clearing Masque
Its natural, clay-based formula clears out pores and absorbs excess oil while hydrating skin. It can also be used as a spot treatment on blemished areas on the face, chest, and back.
Sulfur, glycerin, kaolin, and bentonite reduce sebum, calm irritation, restore barrier function, absorb excess oils, and remove impurities from the pores.
Thoroughly cleanse the skin before applying the product. Apply a thin layer over the entire targeted area twice a week. Leave on for 10 to 15 minutes, then remove using warm water, a moist towel, or cotton pad. If dryness or peeling occur, reduce the frequency of use.
6. Skinbetter Science Detoxifying Scrub Mask
This natural, clay-based mask exfoliates the skin with gentle, biodegradable spherical beads. It promotes a healthier complexion, reduces the appearance of pores, and minimizes blackheads and other types of acne.
Kaolin clay minerals absorb excess oil and remove impurities from pores, while jojoba softens the skin and relieves dryness.
Apply a thick layer to clean damp skin, avoiding the eyes, up to three times weekly. Leave on for up to 15 minutes for normal-to-oily skin and up to 3 minutes for normal-to-dry skin. Increase leave-on time as needed. Rinse with warm water.
Note: Find out if you can use body scrubs on your face and what results to expect.
7. Osmosis MD Polish Cranberry Enzyme Mask
This antioxidant mask uses cranberry enzymes to gently exfoliate damaged skin cells, promoting a firm, smooth, and radiant complexion.
Cranberry contains essential fatty acids that help firm and tighten the skin. Omega-3 helps to relieve dry and irritated skin and strengthen the skin’s lipid barrier, while omega-6 enhances the skin’s ability to retain moisture and reduce inflammation.
Apply a thin layer to a clean face and leave for five to fifteen minutes. Use up to three times a week and combine with Osmosis MD Deep Clean Detox Cleanser for a multi-purpose exfoliating wash.
8. Polish MD Cranberry Enzyme Mask
This cranberry-based antioxidant mask gently exfoliates skin cells, leaving the skin firm, smooth, and glowing.
Cranberry extract infuses the skin with potent antioxidants, such as vitamin C, helping to reduce oxidative stress and skin pollution. Its antibacterial properties help to clear out pores, minimize blemishes, and fight acne-causing bacteria.
Apply a thin layer and gently massage it into a clean area. Leave for five to fifteen minutes and remove with lukewarm water. Use one to three times a week.
9. Origins Retexturizing Mask with Rose Clay
This floral-scented clay mask helps to eliminate blackheads and excess oil with rose clay, willowherb, and sugar cane.
Rose clay improves blood flow, reduces inflammation, and calms the skin, while willowherb helps regulate sebum and minimizes redness caused by chemicals and UV exposure. Sugar cane is rich in antioxidants and alpha hydroxy acids, which help exfoliate and smooth the skin.
Massage a small amount of the product onto a clean face and leave for ten minutes. Gently rinse out with lukewarm water or a clean, damp towel. Use once or twice a week.
10. CLINIQUE Acne Solutions™ Oil-Control Cleansing Mask
This soothing clay-based mask cleanses pores and removes excess oil without irritating the skin. Its gentle formula is suitable for skin conditions such as rosacea.
Salicylic acid clears excess oil, exfoliates dead skin, and unclogs pores, while kaolin clay reduces redness and absorbs the toxins and impurities that lead to breakouts. The skin looks clearer, smoother, and oil-free.
Apply a thin layer to a clean area, avoiding the eyes. Leave for five minutes or until it dries. Rinse off with warm water or a wet washcloth. Use it two to three times a week and combine with CLINIQUE’s Anti-blemish Solutions Clarifying Lotion and Clearing Moisturizer.
11. Murad Acne Control Rapid Relief Acne Sulfur Mask
This tri-active mask reduces pimple size, alleviates redness, and even calms cystic acne.
The soothing blend of sulfur, salicylic acid, and Austrian peat helps to reduce pore congestion, enhances skin texture, and minimizes breakouts. Kaolin and bentonite clay absorbs excess oil and controls shine, creating a clearer complexion. Eucalyptus neutralizes the notorious odor of sulfur, while Austrian peat extract hydrates the skin and prevents over-drying.
Apply an even layer onto clean skin and leave for ten minutes. Rinse and pat dry. Use two to three times a week for optimal results.
12. Mediheal Tea Tree Essential Blemish Control Sheet Mask
This calming sheet mask infused with potent herbal extracts is excellent for sensitive skin. It reduces redness, purifies the pores, hydrates, and gently exfoliates the skin.
It contains willow bark, tea tree oil, rosemary, chamomile, and Asiatic pennywort. This unique blend clarifies the complexion, reduces irritation, and cleanses pores to keep the skin smooth, silky, and clear.
You can keep it in a fridge to enhance its soothing power. Apply it after cleansing and toning the face. Pull upward and adjust it to fit around the eyes, nose, and mouth. Hold it for ten to twenty minutes, and lightly pat the remaining essence into the skin for better absorption.
13. The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque
This budget-friendly acne mask helps clear congested pores, improves skin texture, and brightens complexion. It is suitable for oily, blemish-prone, and lackluster skin.
Active ingredients include salicylic acid, kaolin, charcoal powder, and 4-t-butylcyclohexanol. Salicylic acid exfoliates the skin, kaolin and charcoal draw out dirt and mattify the skin, while 4-t-butylcyclohexanol soothes the skin and reduces irritation.
Apply the mask after cleaning the face with a compatible non-comedogenic cleanser. Rinse off before applying serums, oils, suspensions, or creams. Use once or twice a week.
14. The Body Shop Himalayan Charcoal Purifying Glow Mask
This charcoal-based mask exfoliates the skin, absorbs excess oil, and removes dirt and impurities. Key ingredients include bamboo charcoal from the Himalayan foothills, green tea leaves, and oil-absorbing clay. These natural compounds have a powerful purifying effect that is ideal for oily, acne-prone skin.
Apply the mask to a clean face and leave for five to ten minutes. You will feel a cooling effect and a pleasant tingle. Wash off with warm water and apply the moisturizer of your choice.
15. SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Masque
This purifying clay mask decongests pores, removes excess oil, and calms irritated skin. It minimizes outbreaks, soothes the skin, and promotes gentle exfoliation.
The non-drying blend of kaolin and bentonite with a 2% mixed fruit extract, aloe, and chamomile invigorates the skin, removes impurities, and reduces the appearance of blemishes. The mask provides deep hydration while cleansing the pores and absorbing sebum.
Apply a generous coat of the product to a clean face, avoiding the eye and lip area. Leave for ten to fifteen minutes. Rinse with warm water and gently pat dry. For best results, use weekly to clear away dead skin buildup.
16. New York Biology the Ultimate Cosmeceuticals Dead Sea Mud Mask
This pure mud-based mask detoxifies the skin, shrinks pores, minimizes blackheads, and helps repair damaged skin cells.
Dead Sea mud’s potent purifying effect is ideal for oily, acne-prone skin, while stem cells and collagen promote a youthful, radiant complexion and have an added firming effect. This mask can unclog pores, rejuvenate the skin, and reduce impurities. Other notable ingredients include lavender oil, shea butter, kaolin, aloe vera, and jojoba oil.
Apply to clean damp or dry skin twice a week. Remove with warm water and follow with your favorite moisturizer.
17. Peter Thomas Roth Therapeutic Sulfur Acne Treatment Mask
This clay-based mask helps unclog pores, absorb excess oil, and prevent acne. Its exfoliating power is enhanced by pore-cleansing 10% sulfur, kaolin, and bentonite clay, which dry, clear up, and prevent flare-ups. It also contains aloe vera, which moisturizes the skin on a deeper level.
Apply to clean skin on the face, chest, and back. Allow it to dry for five to ten minutes, and rinse thoroughly with warm water. Use two to three times per week. Reduce the frequency of application if you notice any dryness or peeling.
18. Urban Skin Rx Purifying 2-in-1 Pumpkin Pore Detox Mask and Scrub
This 2-in-1 acne treatment combines a purifying mask and an exfoliating scrub, providing a warming sensation and an addictive pumpkin-spiced scent.
The self-warming, dual-action formula unclogs the pores and clears blemishes with kaolin, bromelain, and salicylic acid. The mask and scrub help to detoxify the skin, while vitamin-enriched jojoba beads with enzymes cleanse the pores and rejuvenate the skin.
Cleanse skin thoroughly and apply the product to damp skin. Massage it until the warmth fades. Leave for five to fifteen minutes, depending on skin sensitivity. Rinse with warm water and pat dry. Follow it with a moisturizer of your choice.
Note: If you enjoy pumpkin-scented skincare products, do not miss the article about pumpkin facial skin benefits.
19. Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask
This low-cost cooling clay mask helps control excess oil, minimizes pores, and lessens skin imperfections with gentle exfoliation. It contains volcanic ash clusters and AHA (lactic acid) that help refine pores, reduce excess sebum, and provide skin-smoothing exfoliation. Its creamy, non-drying texture instantly purifies the pores and is removed easily without stripping the skin of moisture or leaving a sticky leftover.
Apply the product on a clean and dry face. Leave for ten minutes or until dry. Rinse with lukewarm water by massaging the face in circular motions. Use once or twice a week.
20. Cetaphil Dermacontrol Purifying Clay Mask
This non-comedogenic clay mask cleanses pores, leaving the skin refreshed and clarified. It is hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and suitable for oily and sensitive skin. The creamy, non-drying mask combats dryness, irritation, roughness and tightness, and strengthens the skin barrier. White clay and apple fruit extract gently exfoliate and mattify the skin, improving tone and texture.
Apply to clean skin and leave for five to ten minutes up to three times a week. Rinse off with warm water and combine with a blemish-reducing moisturizer.
21. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Shine Control Clay Mask
This 2-in-1 purifying clay mask removes excess oil, eliminates impurities, and controls shine. It is ideal for oily, blemish-prone skin.
The blend of kaolin clay, glycerin, and vitamin B5 helps mattify the skin and achieve a smoother, more radiant complexion. Glycerin locks in moisture, while vitamin B5 hydrates the skin and strengthens its protective barrier. This mask is popular because of its silky-smooth consistency, which makes it easy to apply and remove.
Apply a thin layer after cleansing the face and leave for five minutes. Wash off thoroughly with warm water. Avoid the eye area and rinse immediately with water in case of contact with the eyes. Use once or twice a week.
22. Dr.Jart+ Dermask Clearing Solution
This sheet mask with glutathione soothes and clears irritated skin and is suitable for sensitive skin types.
Its clearing solution complex contains potent antioxidant properties that reduce inflammation and brighten the complexion. Glutathione evens skin tone, diminishes acne scars, and achieves a visibly calmer complexion.
After cleansing and toning the skin, apply the mask to your face and gently adjust around the eyes and mouth. Leave for ten to twenty minutes. Remove the sheet and massage the leftover formula into your skin.
Note: Discover the 12 benefits of glutathione.
23. Dr. Idriss Major Fade Flash Mask
This powerful acid-based mask resurfaces the skin, evens tone, and reduces dark spots. It is suitable for acne-prone skin with hyperpigmented issues and acne scars.
This exfoliating AHA mask removes the outer dermal layer and helps other products penetrate more deeply. Dermatologists recommend pairing it with Dr. Idriss Major Fade Hyper Serum and Major Fade Active Seal. It is fragrance-free and non-irritating.
Use up to three times a week at night. Apply a thin layer on clean, dry skin, avoiding the eye area. Leave for ten to fifteen minutes and rinse thoroughly with warm water.
24. L'Oreal Paris Pure Clay Blemish Rescue Mask
This seaweed-infused clay formula provides a tingling sensation, unclogs pores, and tightens skin without causing dryness. It is hypoallergenic and ideal for sensitive skin.
Its creamy texture gently detoxifies the skin with a blend of three pure clays and marine algae extract which reduces blemishes and blackheads. The skin appears smoother, hydrated, and purified after just one use.
Apply a thin coat on clean skin twice a week. Avoid the eye and lip area. Leave it to dry for five to ten minutes and remove with warm water and a wet towel.
25. Deep Detox Volcanic Exfoliating Mask
This mineral-rich exfoliating mask cleanses deep-seated impurities and pulls toxins from oily, acne-prone skin.
Volcanic ash, kaolin clay, and bamboo charcoal detoxify the skin, while Pili and Elemi oils hydrate and protect the skin against environmental stressors. This antiseptic mask exfoliates dead skin cells, alleviates inflammation, and restores moisture to give the face a healthy, natural glow.
You may experience a pleasant tingling sensation when applying the mask. Avoid contact with the eyes. Lightly rinse off the product after three to five minutes with lukewarm water.
How to Choose a Face Mask for Acne?
Each mask has a unique blend suitable for different skin types and issues. Knowing how to differentiate among a myriad of options will help you select the best solution for your specific skin concern.
Learn how to choose the most effective acne-fighting mask using the following steps.
Check the Label for Pore-Clearing Ingredients
Choose a mask with non-comedogenic ingredients, such as the following:
- Salicylic acid
- Benzoyl peroxide
- Zinc oxide
- Allantoin
- Sulfur
- Tea tree oil
- Aloe vera
- Niacinamide
- Retinol
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Rose water
- Witch hazel
Use Clay-Based and Charcoal-Based Products
Clay and charcoal are essential acne-suppressing ingredients because they remove excess oil, unclog pores, and alleviate redness and irritation. Clay-based and charcoal-based face masks are some of the best skincare products for oily, acne-prone skin due to their cleansing effect and anti-inflammatory potential.
Choose Natural, Soothing Ingredients
Masks with aloe vera, chamomile, or niacinamide reduce inflammation and calm irritated skin. Choose fragrance-free formulas to prevent potential skin irritation. Natural skincare products help neutralize acne-causing bacteria and repair irritated or damaged skin. They also protect against environmental stress and alleviate uncomfortable symptoms like itchiness or redness.
Note: Learn about the best natural skincare routine to improve your skin health.
Moisturize the Skin
People often overlook the importance of hydrating ingredients in face masks for acne. Make sure to choose products containing moisturizing agents that hydrate all skin layers and prevent over-drying. You can finish your skincare routine with a specialized moisturizer for oily skin for a healthy glow.
The following ingredients will help maintain moisture balance and regulate sebum:
- Squalane
- Hyaluronic acid
- Glycerin
- Shea butter
- Aloe
- Ceramides
Note: Find out if you can safely use hyaluronic acid and niacinamide together.
Avoid Harsh Exfoliants
Avoid masks with aggressive physical scrubs and too many acne-clearing ingredients. Exfoliating too much irritates and damages the protective skin barrier, making you more susceptible to breakouts and sebum overproduction.
Choose products tailored for sensitive skin to calm and strengthen the barrier, allowing the skin to soak in antimicrobial ingredients that gently cleanse congested pores.
Conclusion
Having too many acne-fighting face masks on the market doesn’t have to be a problem when you understand how each product works. Learning about the ingredients and knowing your skin type will help you decide which mask to incorporate into your daily routine.
Contact our friendly Vibrant Skin Bar team to learn more about pore-cleansing skincare products.
