10 best clay face masks that clear pores, prevent breakouts and brighten skin

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Unlike the sticky, peel-off masks of teenage sleepovers, a big pot of clay can make a big difference to the condition of your skin; drawing out impurities and brightening tired, dull complexions.

Used weekly – not just on the few nights a year you set aside for “pamper time” – they can improve skin in the long term too, by helping to prevent breakouts and creating a more even complexion.

The type of clay used varies, from kaolin to bentonite, but they have very similar effects so don’t let the different types bother you too much when choosing.

Many masks also include exfoliating acids to slough away dead skin cells and brighten, and/or nourishing, soothing ingredients such as aloe or essential oils, to mitigate against the drying nature of clay.

Apply a thin layer to your face and neck with your fingers or a flat brush, avoiding the eye area, or use it topically on spots or an oily T-zone (ideal if you have dry cheeks or forehead) and leave on for the prescribed amount of time; most are around 10-15 minutes.

It won’t do much damage to leave it on for longer if the main active ingredient is simply clay, but if your mask contains an acid you need to be more vigilant about timing.

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