Finding the best face masks for acne prone skin can make a huge difference in your skincare routine. Let’s face it, fighting acne feels like an endless battle. It takes forever to go away and if it goes away, it comes back with no shame.
From breakouts and clogged pores due to excess oil, it seems like your skin never gets a break. But we got you. There is one tool in your acne-fighting arsenal that is so good that when picked right, it can be a game changer.
That is the right face mask, for your skin concern, can make all the difference. There is no shortage of amazing products in the market that can deal with whatever it is that you are looking for.
Whether you are looking for the best face mask for acne-prone skin or finding the right ingredient from Kaolin to bentonite to sulfur to tea tree oil, this guide has you covered.
We picked 5 products that we think are the best face masks for acne-prone skin and have earned their place in the skincare world.
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- Drunk Elephant T.L.C Sukari Baby facial AHA+BHA Mask
- Murad Rapid Relief Acne Sulfur Mask
- Dr Idress Major Fade Flash Mask
- Skinceuticals Clarifying Clay Mask for Acne prone skin
- Dr.Jart+ Dermask Clearing Solution
Drunk Elephant T.L.C Sukari Baby facial AHA+BHA Mask
If you are on the lookout for a mask that is so good that it is beloved by both skincare enthusiasts and dermatologists alike, I want you to look no further. Drunk Elephant T.L.C Sukari Baby facial AHA+BHA Mask is not just a mask but a facial in a bottle.
What is it that makes it our favorite face mask for acne prone skin?
This mask is loaded with 25% AHA + 2 % BHA, and this combination is something that tackles everything from clogged pores to stubborn breakouts for a healthy glow.
Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) in this beauty not only exfoliates the dead cells off your skin but it leads to a brighter complexion. If you struggle with acne scars, which I assume you will, AHA helps fade away acne scars by increasing cell turnover.
Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) – Salicylic acid is something that dives deeper into the skin layers unlike AHA, and cleans out excess oil and blackheads and whiteheads.
This mask is gentle enough for weekly use but potent enough to transform your skin in just about 15 minutes to reboot your complexion giving a squeaky clean.
I guess it’s known a baby facial for a reason.
They added Marula oil in it. It is an antioxidant and fatty acid that soothes the skin after an exfoliation treatment. And don’t worry, marula oil won’t clog your pores.
If you are looking for something to give you an improved skin texture and tone, a weekly exfoliation treat to keep acne at bay, and a baby-soft complexion. This is our choice for you.
Murad Rapid Relief Acne Sulfur Mask
Sulfur is one of the most effective ingredients when it comes to treating acne. This one has sulfur in it and is a dermatologist-developed mask.
Murad takes it to the next level by combining the drying nature of sulfur with hydrating agents like Austrian peat extract (which is a hydrating extract) and kaolin clay.
Star ingredient in Murad is sulfur at a 5.0 concentration. It acts by drying the surface of your skin and exfoliates dead skin cells as well that clog pores.
I would say it is a gentle treatment compared to a more aggressive approach like benzoyl peroxide, making it a good choice for those who have sensitive skin.
If you are dealing with acne prone oily skin that shines , kaolin clay in this mask helps remove excess oil to help that.
It also contains salicylic acid but the concentration is not known so I am assuming it’s less.
This mask is a rapid relief mask due to its 5 % sulfur concentration that dries out acne. If you want a mask for rapid relief that targets acne right away and prevents future breakouts, this one is for you.
Dr Idriss Major Fade Flash Mask
Dr Idriss major fade flash mask is a dermatologist-approved, award-wining mask for those struggling with acne, uneven skin texture, and dark spots. It is loaded with glycolic acid 15 % which clears current breakouts and prevents future ones by exfoliating all the gunk and debris. Because it helps remove dead skin it will give a smooth texture over the period and you can say goodbye to those rough flaky patches on your skin.
Tranexamic acid and lactic acid in this formulation provides brightening effect and helps fade post acne marks.
Even though the formula is loaded with pore cleansing ingredients that usually dry out the skin, the addition of glycerin keeps the skin hydrated. Glycerin is our favorite humectant when it comes to keeping acne-prone skin hydrated.
Over all if you are looking for something to clear out existing acne and prevent future breakouts, even out you skin tone and brightens, this one is our pick for you.
Skinceuticals Clarifying Clay Mask for Acne prone skin
Clarifying Clay Mask for Acne prone skin from Skinceuticals is formulated with 2% mixed fruit extracts (malic, lactic, tartaric, citric and glycolic acids) for normal, combination, and oily skin. Its packed with aloe and chamomile to calm irritated skin which makes it ideal for acne prone skin that is sensitive to harsh treatment.
Apart from its fruit-derived exfoliators , it contains quality earth clays like kaolin and bentonite that decongest pores, draws excess oil and reduces shine on the face.
If you are someone struggling with active breakouts and trying to keep the face oil in check with a gentler formula such as this, thanks to its fruit extracts, this one is just what your skin needs.
Dr Jart+ Dermark clearing solution
Dr Jart+ Dermark clearing solution is not an acne clearing mask but it’s formulated for those who need extra TLC (Tender Loving Care).
The reason it made our list is that the rest of the products listed can be drying for some, even when used in moderation. This mask can give a gentle and calming solution for their sensitive skin.
Although majorly a hydrating mask for sensitive skin, it has acne-fighting benefits due to the inclusion of salicylic acid, niacinamide, tea tree oil, and the brightening effect of glutathione.
The format of the mask is in a sheet form wrapped in a capsule , making it travel-friendly and as you relax you can put it on your face allowing your skin to drink up the calming benefits of these wonderful ingredients. Sheet masks always feel good.
Key takeaway
Each of these face masks has something unique to offer. It’s all about finding the right one that suits your skin’s needs. Whether you’re looking for a deep detox with salicylic acid, gentle exfoliation with lactic/glycolic acid or fruit extracts, or looking for soothing hydration to caress your face, the right mask is out there for you. Trust what resonates with your skin and your routine, and you’ll be well on your way to a clearer skin.