11 Of The Best Clay Masks For A Clear & Calm Complexion

Clay masks can get a bad wrap. Too drying, abrasive on the skin and harsh when stripping the natural oils out of the complexion, it’s likely you either love them or hate them. But what if we told you that the new guard of clay masks were essential in revealing balanced, calm and clear skin?

Now formulated with nourishment and hydration in mind, clay masks are so much more than their thick, drying predecessors. They now come packed full of replenishing ingredients (like vitamin C and omegas) and sit comfortably on the skin so you can go about your morning/afternoon/evening with ease. But where does one start in their search for the perfect clay mask? Here, we’ve rounded up 11 of our favourites…

If you’re after a clay mask that detoxifies while nourishing the skin (i.e. a clay mask unicorn) then the A’Kin Detoxifying Deep Cleanse Clay Mask is for you. Enriched with Australian kaolin clay and activated charcoal, the mask removes dirt, oil and impurities while the inclusion of blue-green algae helps to nourish the skin at the same time. Plus, with Australian lemon myrtle extract working to rebalance the skin barrier, you can rest assured that a clearer, more radiant complexion is around the corner.

The words ‘soothing’ and ‘clay mask’ are rarely synonymous but that was until we met Lesse’s Bioactive Mask. A deeply hydrating and clarifying clay mask that works to clear, decongest and fade dark spots in one fell swoop, this gentle formula is perfect for those of us with sensitive skin. It also works to repair and strengthen the skin barrier. Tick, tick, tick!

Detox from pollution and free radical damage with the Tata Harper Purifying Mask. A natural clay mask that purges pores and fights free radical damage from sun and external aggressors, this bad boy is perfect for oily skin. The formula contains star aster which helps the skin defend itself against oxidative damage and white clay to absorb oil and dirt buildup. It also works to minimise the appearance of pores for smooth makeup application.

We all live busy lives, so we all need products that are going to multitask as much as we do. Enter: Fresh’s Umbrian Clay Mask. This three-in-one formula can be used as an all-over mask to instantly remove impurities and detoxify the complexion, as a daily deep cleanser to remove pollution and as a spot treatment. Working to balance the skin and clarify without being drying, we cannot recommend this one enough.

Dull skin getting you down? We’ve all been there. With Esmi Skin Minerals’s Soft Skin Refining Charcoal Clay Booster Mask, you can purify and brighten with ease. Combining the mild exfoliating action of kaolin clay with bentonite clay (which neutralises harmful bacteria), the formula deeply cleanses the pores for a touchably soft, glowing complexion.

The perfect clay mask for the warmer months, the Ole Henriksen Cold Plunge Pore Mask leaves an amazing cooling sensation on the skin when applied. Working to instantly reduce the look of pores, smooth skin texture and control oil all day, the innovative formula harnesses the power of alpine willowherb and snow lotus to visibly improve the skin. Basically, this product is all that stands between you and that Ole Glow! 

Arguably one of the most recognisable clay masks on the market, the Caudalie Vinergetic C+ Instant Detox Mask is a cult-favourite for a reason. Containing coffee and pink clay to absorb impurities from the pores and provide a smoother, more-uniform skin texture, this product is an essential. Plus, the formula is vegan and fragrance-free to keep irritation to a minimum. Winning!

How could we do a skincare roundup without a special (peachy) mention? The Go-To Removalist Mask is a hybrid clay mask that replenishes the skin while it detoxifies. That’s right–there’s no nasty tightness post-mask and no pesky irritation. Rather, the skin is left looking plump, clear and dewy and it takes just 10 minutes. Efficiency is not to be underestimated.

She’s the queen of glowing complexions, so it comes as no surprise that Charlotte Tilbury’s Goddess Skin Clay Mask is something to write home about. Containing bionymph peptide for smoother, plumper looking skin, vitamin C to brighten and sweet almond oil to keep the skin feeling moisturised, smooth and baby soft, this formula really can do it all.

Perfect if you struggle with ultra-oily skin, the Beauté Pacifique Deep Pore Cleansing Mask will have you looking balanced and smooth in no time. Formulated with three different forms of clay to bind and remove oily residues, the mask also works to relieve irritation and itchiness if you’re struggling with dermatitis or the like.

A unique formula designed to combat inflammation and calm the skin while providing a deep cleanse, the Sodashi Gentle Repair White Clay Mask is an ideal remedy for red, sensitive or irritated skin. A soothing blend of chamomile, damask rose and calendula, this mask reveals a calm, happy complexion with ease.