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Face Masks for Making Skin Look Virtually Poreless
Pores: can't live without them. We all have them, as they're part of our skin's natural makeup. Pores tend to have a negative connotation, but there isn't anything wrong with them. However, you have every right to want to minimize the look of enlarged or congested pores due to excess oil, dead skin cells, environmental stressors, dirt and debris buildup, and more. Clogged pores can lead to bacterial buildup and acne.
Masking, known as one of the most-praised self-care rituals, can be helpful when trying to tackle pores. It can give your pores some much-needed TLC and a good deep clean. When it comes to masks for pores, spoiler alert, they're not all created equal. Luckily, we're here to break down the best products to address all your pore concerns. Warning: always spot test before trying a new mask on your face. Your skin will thank you later!
Best Overall: GlamGlow Supermud Charcoal Instant Treatment Mask
This mud mask takes a no-holds-barred approach when it comes to clearing congested skin to make way for a brighter complexion. Equipped with six acids, this powerful blend deep-cleans your pores which helps make them look noticeably smaller.
Best Budget: Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay
The internet absolutely loves this best-selling clay mask, which consistently flies off the shelves. It's an intense one, that's for sure (speaking from experience here), but if you want your pores to feel brand-new, this is it.
Best Vegan: Volition Beauty Detoxifying Silt Gele Mask
The thing about pore-fighting masks is they can feel incredibly harsh and uncomfortable on the skin. With the mission of moisturizing and detoxifying the skin at the same time, this gel-based mask promises to get rid of buildup while adding ample hydration thanks to its mineral-rich black silt.
Best Clay: Kiehl's Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Mask
Key Ingredients
Aloe vera is a naturally derived ingredient known for its soothing and moisturizing properties. The aloe plant's inner gel mucilage (the part that's used in skincare products) is made up of 99.5% water.
You can find bentonite in this whipped clay formula, which may help control shine; along with aloe vera, known to soothe skin; and Amazonian white clay, used to absorb excess oil and detoxify skin, according to the brand. Afterward, your skin will feel deeply cleansed and refreshed.
Best Facial: Olga Lorencin Deep Detox Facial in a Box
The name says it all: a deep detox facial in a box. Keep congestion and clogged pores from pollution at bay with this mask of active ingredients that can help target oil imbalances while providing gentle exfoliation.
Best for Wrinkles: Elemis Peptide 4 Thousand Flower Face Mask
This comforting mask has a velvety texture that feels so good on the skin. Using a combination of peptides and Nordic Peat, which the brand describes as 'organic matter from thousands of flowers rich in humic and fulvic acid', is meant to break up excess oil in your pores and bring on glowing, radiant skin.
Best for Removing Makeup: Origins Original Skin Retexturizing Mask With Rose Clay
Key Ingredients
Jojoba oil is a natural oil produced from the seed of the chinensis plant, a drought-resistant shrub native to southern Arizona, California, and Mexico. It mimics natural sebum and conditions and seals moisture in the skin without clogging pores or exacerbating acne.
This rose clay mask stays front and center in my routine after nights when I've had way too much fun and forget to take my makeup off (not proud of this, but it's the truth). It's a restorative mask that features Mediterranean rose clay, Canadian willowherb, and exfoliating jojoba beads.
What to Look For
Clay
Typically, clay-based masks made with acids are recommended to take on clogged or enlarged pores. Clay help draw out impurities from the skin, with a goal of leaving it fresh, smooth, and clean. Note, when working with a clay mask such as Aztec Secret's Indian Healing Clay, do not leave on the skin for more than five to ten minutes depending on your skin's sensitivity level.
Acids
Acids help unclog and minimize the look of pores. Look for commonly used acids such as lactic acid and salicylic acid when scanning ingredient lists for purchase.
Emollients
Pore-cleansing products and masks can often be rough on the skin while going to work. Seeking masks with skin-soothing formulas to offset any wear and tear and help nourish the skin after your pores have been cleaned.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, you should look for at least one of the following terms on everything you apply to your face: 'Non- comedogenic', 'oil free', and (obviously) 'wont clog pores.'
Cleansing twice daily can help unclog pores, prevent clogged pores, and reduce oiliness. Always be gentle when washing the face. Avoid using hot water, which can irritate the skin and actually lead to pores looking larger in size.
On top of masking, there are more preventative options you can take in your skincare routine to combat large pores. The proper exfoliators, toners, cleansers, and hydrators can all contribute to helping minimize pores.
https: //www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/face/treat-large- pores
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