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23 Acne-Fighting Face Masks That Will Clear Your Skin, According to Experts

Mask away.

Headshot of Jasmine WashingtonBy Jasmine Washington

Face masks save the day when acne strikes. You can zap little zits that pop up when you're stressed with spot treatments and get rid of the monthly pimples that spread across your chin, signaling your period with cooling clay masks. No matter if you have oily, sensitive, combo, or acne-prone skin, the best face masks help treat your blemishes without further irritating your skin. "Face masks incorporate similar ingredients as other acne-fighting products," board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick tells Seventeen.

Our Top Acne-Fighting Face Masks

  • Retexturizing Mask with Rose Clay

    Best to Improve Skin Texture

    Origins Retexturizing Mask with Rose Clay

    $32 at origins.com
    Read more
  • Mega Greens Galaxy Pack

    Best Cream Mask

    Glossier Mega Greens Galaxy Pack

    Read more
  • Acne Solutions™ Oil-Control Cleansing Mask

    CLINIQUE Acne Solutions™ Oil-Control Cleansing Mask

    Read more
  • Tea Tree Essential Blemish Control Sheet Mask

    Best Soothing Sheet Masks

    Mediheal Tea Tree Essential Blemish Control Sheet Mask

    Read more
  • The Good Fight Clear Skin Sheet Mask

    Best Sheet Mask for Active Breakouts

    Patchology The Good Fight Clear Skin Sheet Mask

    Read more

In addition to treating breakouts "on the whole face" versus individual blemishes, the New York-based derm recommends this supplemental skincare staple to "clear out the pores, reduce inflammation, and calm redness," which is super helpful when you want to treat multiple zits at the same time. If you're ready to purge pimples from your skin, check out the best face masks for treating acne-prone skin.

Best to Improve Skin Texture

Origins Retexturizing Mask with Rose Clay

Retexturizing Mask with Rose Clay
Best to Improve Skin Texture

Origins Retexturizing Mask with Rose Clay

$32 at origins.com
Pros
  • Leaves skin refreshed
  • Customer reviews rave over light floral scent
Cons
  • Some customer reviews express concern over gritty texture

Tired of those pesky black dots littering your nose? This floral-scented clay mask will take care of blackheads in no time and leave your skin feeling soft as hell.

Key ingredients: Willowherb, sugar cane

Customer review: "This mask feels great while applying, drying, and exfoliating! I think this is the first mask that actually sucks the oil out of my T zone, but doesn't leave behind any irritation or redness on the rest of my face."

Best Cream Mask

Glossier Mega Greens Galaxy Pack

Mega Greens Galaxy Pack
Best Cream Mask

Glossier Mega Greens Galaxy Pack

Pros
  • Softens skin
  • Reduces the appearance of pores
Cons
  • Tingling sensation may irritate

A combo of white kaolin clay and superfruit antioxidants helps this creamy face mask detox your pores. It cleanses AND clarifies, removing excess oil that can cause zits. Afterward, you'll notice soft skin and reduced pimples.

Active ingredients: White kaolin clay

Customer review: "I definitely feel like it works in cleaning my pores. it tingles a littleeee which was a little concerning at first, but it honestly leaves my face so soft."

CLINIQUE Acne Solutions™ Oil-Control Cleansing Mask

Acne Solutions™ Oil-Control Cleansing Mask

CLINIQUE Acne Solutions™ Oil-Control Cleansing Mask

Pros
  • Soothes active breakouts
  • Doesn't irritated skin conditions like rosacea
Cons
  • Customer reviews note medicated smell

This mask is super popular for a reason: it works. Get rid of pimples and prevent more from appearing with this non-drying formula.

Active ingredients: Salicylic acid, kaolin clay

Customer review: "For a $20something mask it's worth it. I have bad acne with rosacea and this mask helps a lot with the acne. I try to use it twice a week but because I'm busy it ends up being once a week but that once is enough to calm my pimples down. I really recommend this mask because it works instantly. Just lay on your face for 5 mins and you're done."

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Best Soothing Sheet Masks

Mediheal Tea Tree Essential Blemish Control Sheet Mask

Tea Tree Essential Blemish Control Sheet Mask
Best Soothing Sheet Masks

Mediheal Tea Tree Essential Blemish Control Sheet Mask

Pros
  • Hydrates skin
Cons
  • Customer reviews note sticky texture

Who says clay masks are the only option? This uber-popular sheet mask not only treats acne with its willow bark, rosemary, and tea tree oil, but also prevents new blemishes from forming. Pro tip: keep them in the fridge for extra soothing power.

Active ingredients: Willow bark, rosemary, tea tree oil

Customer review: "Even though it says it is for blemishes I find it very calming, moisturizing and not drying at all like a lot of acne products can be. Just a very chill mask for bad skin days!"

Best Sheet Mask for Active Breakouts

Patchology The Good Fight Clear Skin Sheet Mask

The Good Fight Clear Skin Sheet Mask
Best Sheet Mask for Active Breakouts

Patchology The Good Fight Clear Skin Sheet Mask

Don't let active breakouts get the best of you. Throw this sheet mask on for 10 minutes to help reduce inflammation and redness.

Best for Acne-Prone Skin

The Body Shop Himalayan Charcoal Purifying Glow Mask

Himalayan Charcoal Purifying Glow Mask
Best for Acne-Prone Skin

The Body Shop Himalayan Charcoal Purifying Glow Mask

Pros
  • Fast acting
  • Light tingling sensation
  • Delivers a refreshing glow
Cons
  • Customer reviews express concerns over 0.5 ounce bottle

Acne-prone reviewers are obsessed with The Body Shop's charcoal mask. One commenter said: "My skin was smoother, red marks less visible, blemishes visibly improved, and my face felt incredibly clean."

Active ingredients: Himalayan charcoal

Customer review: "I am telling you people will literally say, 'wow your skin is glowing', and for all my fellow peeps who struggle with acne out there, you know how much this compliment means."

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New York Biology The Ultimate Cosmeceuticals Dead Sea Mud Mask

Dead Sea Mud Mask

New York Biology The Ultimate Cosmeceuticals Dead Sea Mud Mask

Now 32% Off
Pros
  • Easy to apply
  • Reduces the appearance of pores
Cons
  • Customer reviews suggest patch testing for those with sensitive skin

This mud mask contains a plethora of minerals that detoxify your pores and treat acne. It's so effective that some Amazon reviewers boast "instantaneous smoothing results" after just one use, so hop on that 2-day Prime shipping.

Active ingredients: Dead Sea mineral mud, aloe vera, calendula oil, vitamin E, jojoba oil

Customer review: "Cost effective for the amount. You do not need much if using a silicone spatula for makeup etc. the smell is to die for good! I bought the lavender scent and it’s so good. Definitely going to add to subscription list every 4 months. Love it!"

Best Exfoliating Scrub

Urban Skin Rx Purifying 2-in-1 Pumpkin Pore Detox Mask and Scrub

Purifying 2-in-1 Pumpkin Pore Detox Mask and Scrub
Best Exfoliating Scrub

Urban Skin Rx Purifying 2-in-1 Pumpkin Pore Detox Mask and Scrub

Pros
  • Light scent
  • Brightening
Cons
  • Warming effect could be too warm for certain skin types

A purifying mask and an exfoliating scrub in one, this self-warming formula is packed with all the ingredients to fight your clogged pores and clear up your congested skin. Experience the benefits of kaolin, bromelain, and salicylic acid.

Active ingredients: Kaolin, bromelain, and salicylic acid

Customer reviews: "The smell was amazing, I felt like it smelled just like a pumpkin pie with cinnamon and the smell I give a 10/10. However, I did not like the warming aspect of it, it literally felt like my face was on fire. I liked the way it felt on my skin and it did leave my skin feeling very soft and refreshing, however I couldn't leave it on for the full amount of time because my face felt like it was on fire."

Celeb Favorite

Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay

Indian Healing Clay
Celeb Favorite

Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay

Pros
  • Reduces the appearance of pores
  • Can be used to spot treat active breakouts
Cons
  • Could lead to drying, must follow up with moisturizer
  • Mixing process could be messy

Lili Reinhart swears by Indian Healing Clay for treating cystic acne. Mix it with equal parts apple cider vinegar and apply once a week. The mask can be pretty drying, so make sure you moisturize when you're done.

Active ingredients: Bentonite clay

Customer review: "My skin was so clean and clear after just one face mask. It is a bit messy to mix but well worth it. Plus I personally feel that there are so many more benfits to having this product on hand."

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Best Spot Treatment

Innisfree Pore Clearing Clay Mask

Pore Clearing Clay Mask
Best Spot Treatment

Innisfree Pore Clearing Clay Mask

Now 30% Off
Pros
  • Longlasting
  • Applies smoothly
Cons
  • Customer reviews express concern of scent

You're preparing yourself for a super important date when BAM! a big pimple pops up right on your chin. Don't worry. Slap some of this volcanic clay-laced baby on it as a spot treatment, and you will see results in the morning.

Active ingredients: Volcanic clay

Customer review: "I’ve loved this mask since the first time I tried it. It spreads on smoothly and I can feel it working as soon as I put it on. My pores are clean and they do appear smaller!"

Best Peel-Off Mask

JVR Peel Off Blackhead Remover Mask

Peel Off Blackhead Remover Mask
Best Peel-Off Mask

JVR Peel Off Blackhead Remover Mask

Now 11% Off
Pros
  • Leaves skin refreshed
  • Can be used to spot treat blackheads or as an all over face mask
Cons
  • Customer reviews note messy application

Is there anything more satisfying than a peel-off mask? This charcoal blackhead removal mask will eliminate those pesky blackheads plaguing your pores in one fell swoop, and it has over 1,000 5-star reviews on Amazon to back it up.

Key ingredients: Bamboo charcoal

Customer review: "You see results immediately. However, application process could be messy. It will take 2-3 applications to find what works for you."

Best Two-Step Mask

FACETORY Soothe Me Tea Tree 2-Step Sheet Mask

Soothe Me Tea Tree 2-Step Sheet Mask
Best Two-Step Mask

FACETORY Soothe Me Tea Tree 2-Step Sheet Mask

Pros
  • Hydrating
  • Soothes irritation
Cons
  • Customer reviews note difficulty with opening the mask

This Korean sheet mask contains two steps: a chamomile-infused ampoule for hydration locked in with the tea tree oil-infused sheet mask, which soothes irritation and redness caused by dry skin and blemishes without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. The set comes with individually packaged masks, which means you can throw one in your car, gym bag, and overnight bag to continue your clear skin regimen on the go. For skin-clearing properties and a relaxing effect, this pack of sheet masks will be your new go-to.

Key ingredients: Chamomile, tea tree oil

Customer review: "I enjoyed this mask, a bit hard to open with all the product on it, but if that’s the worst thing about them then is it really bad LOL? Does leave face a bit sticky (aloe one) after use but nothing a good morning face wash didn’t clean right up."

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Best for Moderate Acne

Peter Thomas Roth Therapeutic Sulfur Masque Acne Treatment Mask

Therapeutic Sulfur Masque Acne Treatment Mask
Best for Moderate Acne

Peter Thomas Roth Therapeutic Sulfur Masque Acne Treatment Mask

Pros
  • Gently exfoliates
  • Absorbs oil
Cons

Reviews say that even for those with "moderate to severe cystic acne," this sulfur clay mask works like a charm. With nearly 5-star reviews on Sephora alone, this is the acne treatment you've been waiting for. The Therapeutic Sulfur Masque clears out pimples and absorbs oil to leave your skin looking healthy and clear.

Key ingredients: Bentonite clay, eucalyptus, Aloe Vera

Customer review: "I use this product about once a week when my face is feeling oily or I feel like I'm breaking out. The smell isn't overpowering, it's easy to apply, and it makes my skin feel oh-so-soft and lovely after I wash it off. I recommend it."

Best for New Breakouts

L'Oreal Paris Pure Clay Mask Clear & Comfort

Pure Clay Mask Clear & Comfort
Best for New Breakouts

L'Oreal Paris Pure Clay Mask Clear & Comfort

Pros
  • Tightens without leaving skin extra dry
  • Tingling sensation
Cons
  • Customer reviews note a light scent

Mask with this seaweed-infused clay formula for just ten minutes for fresh, healthy skin. If you feel a breakout coming on, this purifying mask will unclog and destress your skin.

Active ingredients: Pure clay

Customer review: "I don’t use masks often but this one was so much fun! I loved the awesome blue color which made for great Instagram photos!! It felt great going on and was easy to apply."

Best for Active Breakouts

Dr. Jart+ Dermask Micro Jet Clearing Solution™

Dermask Micro Jet Clearing Solution™
Best for Active Breakouts

Dr. Jart+ Dermask Micro Jet Clearing Solution™

Pros
  • Doesn't leave skin feeling tight or dry after use
  • Reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation
Cons
  • Customer reviews note excess wet and dripping during application

If you're looking for a quick fix after waking up to a random breakout, Dr. Garshick suggests the Dr. Jart+ Dermask Clearing Soul because it "calms redness and soothes the skin." Zit-zapping ingredients salicylic acid, tea tree oil, and niacinamide work together to remove dead skin cells, reduce inflammation, and hydrate.

Active ingredients: Salicylic acid, tea tree oil, niacinamide

Customer review: "This is a great mask! The only thing I would be aware of is the teatree oil/extract in it because that can sometimes be irritating."

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Best Overnight Mask

Paula's Choice Radiance Renewal Mask

Radiance Renewal Mask
Best Overnight Mask

Paula's Choice Radiance Renewal Mask

Pros
  • Decongests pores
  • Softens
Cons
  • Customer reviews note tacky film

This radiance-boosting mask is great for people who have sensitive and acne-prone skin. It's an overnight mask that refines and smooths your skin while you sleep. Reviews say it's great for soothing inflamed skin.

Active ingredients: Niacinamide, magnesium, glycerin

Customer review: "I came from a very air-polluted city, and my skin used to suffer extremely (serious acne). I used to cry looking at myself in the mirror. When I started using this product along with the BHA, I started seeing a huge difference in my skin. Not just getting less acne but actually clearing out! am very glad I decided to use this product."

Best for Blackheads

Cetaphil Dermacontrol Purifying Clay Face Mask

Dermacontrol Purifying Clay Face Mask
Best for Blackheads

Cetaphil Dermacontrol Purifying Clay Face Mask

Pros
  • Works well with sensitive skin
  • Minimizes the appearance of pores
Cons
  • Customer reviews note concern over amount of product that comes in the packaging

As gratifying as it may be, squeezing the life out of blackheads causes more harm than good. When you're up against gunk-filled blackheads, Dr. Garshick suggests Cetaphil's Dermacontrol Purifying Clay Face Mask. Two gentle clays are the magic behind this acne-fighting treatment. According to Dr. Garshick, bentonite clay "absorbs oil and pore-clogging impurities" to minimize the appearance of pores, while Amazonian kaolin clay "gently exfoliates to lift away dead skin cells and helps improve skin tone and texture."

Active ingredients: Amazonian Kaolin clay, apple fruit extract, cucumber seed extract

Customer review: "I was going thru a lot of hormonal changes and started getting blackheads on my nose and cheeks and when I used this product I was shocked at how well it got rid of them obviously not all of them but my nose was pretty clear after using it the first time not the best scent but doesn’t bother me."

Best for Oily and Acne-Prone Combo Skin

Deep Detox Volcanic Exfoliating Mask

Deep Detox Volcanic Exfoliating Mask
Best for Oily and Acne-Prone Combo Skin

Deep Detox Volcanic Exfoliating Mask

Pros
  • Dries out active blemishes quickly
Cons
  • Customer reviews note difficulty opening the packaging

When you're experiencing both oily and acne-prone skin, snag this exfoliating scrub to clear your pores of buildup that leads to blemishes and buff away dead skin cells.

Active ingredients: Kaolin clay, Mayon volcanic ash, bamboo charcoal

Customer review: "It works better than possibly expected. Gave me the same results as a Diamond Glow facial!!"

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Best Cleansing Mask

Neutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask

Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask
Best Cleansing Mask

Neutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask

Now 18% Off
Pros
  • Leaves a refreshing cooling effect
  • Can be used as a spot treatment or a cleanser
Cons
  • Customers with sensitive skin note redness after application

Have you been noticing more breakouts than usual? Dr. Garshick recommends Neutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask because it's enriched with benzoyl peroxide to rid your skin of pore-clogging bacteria and clay-based ingredients that help combat oil. You can use this two-in-one treatment daily as a cleanser or leave it on for up to five minutes as an acne treatment before rinsing.

Active ingredients: Benzoyl peroxide

Customer review: "I was recommended this product from a dermatologist & it’s worked so well with my skin. i would definitely recommend! it has a great cooling effect after rinsing off but doesn’t give my skin that tight feeling."

Best for Redness

SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Mask

Phyto Corrective Mask
Best for Redness

SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Mask

Pros
  • Cooling sensation
  • Reduces redness
Cons
  • Pricey $$

Dealing with rosacea or just general inflammation? SkinCeuticals' Phyto Corrective Masque is totally soothing and will reduce redness in no time.

Active ingredients: Cucumber, thyme, and olive oil extracts, hyaluronic acid

Customer review: "Great mask! Leaves skin feeling smooth and moisturized. subtle difference. will keep using to see if I notice more results. Its is pricey. But TBD on the actual results it will give after regular use."

Headshot of Jasmine Washington
Jasmine Washington
Assistant Editor

Jasmine Washington is an Assistant Editor at Seventeen, where she covers celebrity news, beauty, lifestyle, and more. For the past decade, she has worked for media outlets, including BET, MadameNoire, VH1, and many others, where she used her voice to tell stories across various verticals. Follow her on Instagram.

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