These are the best clarifying face masks to give skin a good detox
There's nothing more restorative or indulgent than a face mask. In fact, we are of the belief that a face mask should be an integral part of everyone's self care regime. Not only do they provide a much-needed moment of pampering, but they are also the most effective at-home treatment for a whole host of skin conditions.
From sensitive skin, to dry and cracked skin, to skin with hyperpigmentation and dark spots, to oily skin that is prone to breakouts, there's bound to be a face mask formulated to target your specific concern and containing a number of active ingredients.
When it comes to congested skin, or skin with large pores which easily become blocked, a face mask should be at the forefront of your skincare arsenal, along with a foaming cleanser and a serum which helps to balance oil production.
As for the mask itself, there are a number of effective ingredients that can help to draw out impurities from deep within the pores, as well as buff away dead skin cells and help to ward off future blemishes.
"I love ingredients like salicylic acid when it comes to clarifying skincare," says Dr Dendy Engleman, New York Dermatologist, Cosmetic & Skin Cancer Surgeon, and Consulting Dermatologist for Elizabeth Arden. "It's naturally-derived from willow bark and will help to reduce inflammation as well as decrease the congestion within the pores."
Other popular ingredients with clarifying face masks are natural clays, which help to draw out debris and oil from the skin, as well as other exfoliating acids, like glycolic acid, and soothing and calming ingredients like aloe vera and green tea extract.
Keep scrolling to see our ultimate round up of the best clarifying face masks available...
If you're struggling with congested skin, you're going to need a great cleanser. Check out our expert-approved cleansers here as well as the best products for oily skin.
Best clarifying mask for boosting skin immunity
NIOD Flavanone Mud Mask, £38, Look Fantastic
NIOD is known for their sophisticated formulas and this three-stage treatment is no exception. It purifies with Brazilian Clay and titanium, protects and fights inflammation with Bisabolol, and boosts the skin's immunity with Flavanone.
Best clarifying mask for reducing inflammation
Lancer Skincare Clarifying Detox Mask, £63, Look Fantastic
Combining 3% Sulphur, green tea and green clay, this mask is perfect for unclogging pores and soothing redness and inflammation.
Best clarifying mask for drawing out impurities
Murad Clarifying Mask, £40, Look Fantastic
Kaolin clay draws out impurities while sulphur dries up existing spots and licorice root and grape seed extracts soothe, leaving skin totally cared for.
Best clarifying mask for glow
GlamGlow Supermud Clearing Treatment, £15.92, Feel Unique
This cult favourite contains a triple dose of skin-boosting acids, including Glycolic, Salicylic and Lactic Acid, to boost cell turnover and tackle the cause of blemishes while nourishing and replenishing the skin.
Best clarifying mask for nourishment
Origins Clear Improvement Charcoal Honey Mask to Purify and Nourish, £30, John Lewis
Great for combination skin or congested skin that's prone to dry patches, this mask contains nourishing fermented honey to nourish skin as well as bamboo charcoal to purify the pores.
Best clarifying mask for unblocking pores
SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Masque, £51, SkinCity
Kaolin and Bentonite clays remove blockages within the pores while a blend of alpha hydroxy acids including glycolic help to regulate sebum levels.
Best clarifying mask for lifting dead skin
Elizabeth Arden Prevage City Smart Double Action Detox Peel Off Mask, £60, Boots
This peel over formula contains a blend of citrus bioflavonoids, broccoli extract and Aloe extract as well as potent antioxidants to lift away dead skin, dirt and oil while neutralising free radical damage.
