7 Clay Masks That Won’t Dry Out Your Skin

Depending on the formulation, clay masks can help keep pore-clogging dirt at bay, reduce the appearance of pores, refine skin and increase luminosity. Despite the many pros of using a clay mask, one con is that some formulas can be drying and lead to a tight, uncomfortable feeling after use. The key is to find a clay mask that purifies your pores without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. Lucky for you, we rounded up our favorite non-drying clay masks below.

Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Masque

It’s no secret that pore-clogging debris on skin’s surface can cause a dull-looking appearance. Kick those concerns to the curb with this deep cleansing mask. The unique formula — which is rich in minerals and Amazonian white clay — helps eliminate surface toxins and purifies skin, leaving the appearance of minimized pores and refined skin.

Vichy Mineral Pore Purifying Clay Mask

This creamy formula with kaolin and bentonite clays helps eliminate excess sebum and impurities. It’s also made with soothing and hydrating mineralized thermal water from French volcanoes. Together, these ingredients result in skin that feels purified and soft to the touch. With continued weekly use, pores look less visible and the skin is more balanced.

L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Mask — Detox & Brighten Treatment

Deep clean your skin instantly with this super-charged clay mask formulated with kaolin, montmorillonite and Moroccan lava clays, as well as charcoal. The creamy, non-drying formula can draw out impurities like dirt and pollution, increase luminosity and even out the skin’s tone. Immediately, skin looks smoother and brighter.

SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Masque

Safe for all skin types, this mask combines natural earth clays — like kaolin and bentonite — with a hydroxy-acid blend to deeply cleanse the pores and refine the complexion. The formula helps decongest pores, lift impurities and oils and exfoliates the skin. For best results, use this clay mask weekly.

Youth to the People Superclay Purify + Power Mask with Niacinamide

This powerful treatment works to clear and detoxify your complexion with volcanic, white and French green clays. It also contains 2% niacinamide to soothe the skin, plus BHA to help decongest pores.

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Hyaluronic Clay Pore-Tight Facial

The kaolin clay in this formula is infused with hyaluronic acid to intensely hydrate the skin while decongesting and minimizing the look of pores. It’s a great pick if you don’t want to spend an extended amount of time masking — just five minutes of wear results in softer, brighter skin.

OLE HENRIKSEN Cold Plunge Pore Mask

Give your skin a burst of coolness and detoxification with this pore mask. The clay formula contains snow lotus, willow extracts, lactic and salicylic acid to help zap large pores and keep the skin looking fresh, clear and matte.

Photo: Chaunte Vaughn

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