Whether you suffer from cystic acne you can’t beat or hormonal breakouts that surface each month like clockwork, one thing is for certain when trying to fade your spots: You don’t have time to waste with products that don’t work. From high-tech sheet masks to supercharged masks you can snooze in, this lineup is sure to do the trick and kick breakouts to the curb the first time around.
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MINT Skin MUD Black ($19 for four masks)
If this 100-percent natural Aussie skin care brand hasn’t taken over your social media feeds yet, just wait. Popular for its range of clay masks, this particular one boasts a cocktail of activated coconut charcoal (yes, you read that correctly) and bentonite clay to draw out blackheads, toxins and oils. It’s no wonder why it was sold out and backordered in less than a month of being available on Urban Outfitters’ online store.
Tata Harper Clarifying Mask ($68)
Unlike other strong masks that can be overly drying or irritating, this bright green one is created for blemish-prone skin and is infused with a soothing blend of apple and sandalwood seed oil to balance and nourish, while still clearing up finicky skin with help from salicylic acid and alphahydroxy acids.
Alba1913 Galenic Leave-On Mask ($53)
This must-have leave-on mask really does check all of the boxes when it comes to bettering skin. The longer you wear it, the more it softens, hydrates, clarifies and evens skin tone thanks to skin care powerhouses like shea butter, vitamin A and hyaluronic acid. To reap the benefits, apply it before your head hits the pillow once or twice a week, then get plenty of sleep.
GLAMGLOW BUBBLESHEET ($9)
Touted as a bubble mask and makeup eraser in one (it’s said to remover a full face of makeup in just three minutes), this foaming mask is created with charcoal and green tea to help clear skin and make it glow. To use the mask, dampen skin before makeup is removed, apply the sheet and wait. After a minute, the bubbles will begin to form and after two more, you’ll be ready for removal. Massage the remaining cleansing bubbles into your skin and rinse clean for a two-in-one mask and cleanser.
Murad Pore Extractor Pomegranate Mask ($38)
Lactic-acid polishing beads exfoliate rough patches and lift away dead skin cells, volcanic clay acts like a magnet to extract impurities from pores, and pomegranate extract delivers and uptick in radiance to your overall complexion for a full-on facial in just 10 minutes.
Sunday Riley Saturn Sulfur Acne Treatment Mask ($55)
Chock-full of sulfur (we’re talking 10 percent in every tube) along with 4-percent niacinamide and 1-percent zinc to fight multiple types of acne—think inflammatory, hormonal and the rosacea that comes along with all of them—this green mask promises clearer, balanced skin in no time. Use it as a spot-treatment, normal face mask or an overnight treatment for an all-hands-on-deck approach.
I Dew Care Berry Bubbly ($19)
This fun-loving brand came on the scene for its Disco Kitten mask, but its full range of treatments are just as noteworthy. Case in point: this next-level, jelly-meets-clay mask that clears away blackheads, oils and dirt (exfoliating kaolin is a main ingredient) with an unexpected, frothy formula that washes away to reveal brighter, smoother, clarified skin.
Yes To Tomatoes Detoxifying Charcoal Sleeping Mask ($3)
What’s better than a face mask you can apply before bed and not have to worry about washing off? Look no further than this charcoal- and salicylic-acid-infused option that’s sure to be your new go-to when your next breakout surfaces. Simply apply the single-use mask all over freshly cleansed skin, massage it in until absorbed, and relax. Come morning, you’ll notice smoother, clearer skin, plus a clean pillow.
L’Occitane Purifying Minute Mask ($6)
One of three new, single-use pods, this one is perfect for those with oily skin looking to clear out pores and de-slick skin. Packed with peony and lemon extracts, this melt-in, rinse-off mask works like a charm to absorb excess sebum and leave behind fresh, glowy skin.