Image: MomJunction Design Team
The best face masks for open pores are great options for removing oil and dirt build up on the skin’s surface. If you have oily and acne-prone skin, you can have clogged pores. Failing to address them may lead to breakouts, blackheads, and even skin irritation that may destroy the skin barrier in the long run.
If you wish to take care of your pores and make your skin soft, smooth, and glowy, using face masks that target open pores is your best option. Here is a list of some tried-and-tested face masks known for their proven efficacy, so you can get rid of open pores.
Top Picks
12 Best Face Masks For Open Pores
1. Best For Daily Use: Dead Sea Mud Mask
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 40,642 customers on Amazon have opined that this is one of the best products in its category.
The mineral-infused mud mask is formulated using a herbal blend of vitamin E, jojoba oil, sunflower seed, calendula oil, and aloe vera. It not only clears clogged pores but also purifies the skin make it look soft and fresh. This cruelty-free mud mask is free of parabens, sulfates, and alcohol. It is suitable for oily, normal, dry, and combination skin. You may check out this product testing video by a reviewer for a better understanding of this product.
Pros
- Not tested on animals
- Stimulates blood circulation
- Cleanses skin to provide a soothing sensation
- Aids in skin renewal and exfoliates skin gently
- Gentle enough for everyday use
Cons
- May not be suitable for sensitive skin
- Some may not like the smell
"The Dead Sea mud mask is a delight to use, leaving my skin soft and smooth, although a tad dry. A generous dollop of moisturizer resolves this issue. It's easy on my combination skin type, and its lack of irritation truly persuaded me. The cleanliness and the refreshing feel it provides can't be overlooked. Despite my initial skepticism, this mask turned out to be an essential item in my skincare routine."
2. Best Sheet-Style: Acure Foil-Time Fortifying Silver Mask
Acure’s silver mask is easy to use, as it comes in a ready-to-use sheet format. The unique silver foil technology utilizes trapped heat to open the pore, enhancing the deliverance and absorption of nourishing active ingredients like niacinamide and glacial glycoproteins. This helps keep the skin hydrated, rejuvenated and revitalized.
Pros
- Easy to apply and remove
- Can help soothe irritated skin
- Not tested on animals
- Suitable for all skin types
- Sulfate-, formaldehyde-, and mineral oil-free
Cons
- May cause a tingling sensation to some
"I've found my favorite in this face mask for the way it rejuvenates my skin, heals scars, and minimizes bumps, making my tired, irritated face feel refreshed. Plus, unlike other foil sheet masks I've used, it's not overly drenched and messy. It has just the right amount of serum for a great experience."
Beauty tipIf you have combination skin, apply a purifying mask in the oily areas and a hydrating mask in the dry areas to properly treat your skin.
3. Best With Creamy Texture:Meditime Pore Tightening Corset Mask
Incorporate this pore-minimizing and skin-tightening mud clay face mask by Meditime into your skincare routine to achieve healthy, glowing skin. It is designed to reduce the appearance of enlarged pores while removing blackheads and clearing sebum accumulation. Its effective formula is enriched with lotus extracts, red bean powder, amino acids, and kaolin to remove impurities and make the skin look refreshed, moisturized, and hydrated after every use. This clinically backed skincare product is suitable for all skin types and can be used once or twice a week to get the best visible results.
Pros
- Thick and creamy texture is easy to apply and remove
- Hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested formula
- Kaolin absorbs excess oil and tightens the pores
- Has a non-toxic paraben-and mineral oil-free formula
Cons
- Results may vary for different skin types
- May cause dryness for those with sensitive skin
"Using this mask transformed my skincare routine with a significant reduction in pore size. It helps strip away dead skin and stubborn blackheads, leaving behind soft, smooth, and clear skin. Make sure you double cleanse, tone, and then apply this product for best results."
Dead Sea Mud Mask Best For Daily Use | Acure Foil-Time Fortifying Silver Mask Best Sheet-Style | Meditime Pore Tightening Corset Mask Best With Creamy Texture | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 2.5 x 3 x 3 inches | 2.25 x 4.75 x 6.37 inches | 3.14 x 3.14 x 2.55 inches |
| Weight | 8.8 Ounces | 0.71 Ounces | 3.52 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 40,642 | 5 | 188 |
| Price | $16.95 | $5.76 | $21.99 |
4. Best Additive-Free: Pop Modern.C Black Mask Natural Charcoal
Remove blackheads and shrink pores with this natural charcoal mask. Its effective key ingredients include witch hazel, bamboo charcoal, and aloe vera. Besides removing blackheads, this mask works effectively for acne, whiteheads, pores, and excessive sebum. Witch hazel helps balance sebum production and shrinks pores, aloe vera soothes your skin and keeps it hydrated, and bamboo charcoal unclogs the pores and keeps the skin clean.
Pros
- Set includes a silicone brush and four extractor tools
- Treats skin exposed to long-term computer use
- Exfoliates and deep-cleanses skin
- Free of additives
Cons
- May not suitsensitive skin type
- May be slightly sticky
"I appreciate the application spatula and stainless tools for blackhead/whitehead removal. The mask is easy to use and quite effective in unclogging pores and removing dirt. Overall, it does the job, and my skin looks fresh and clean after each use."
5. Best Hydrating: Green Tea Matcha Mud Mask
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 3,423 positive customer reviews on Amazon attest to the product’s quality.
Say goodbye to clogged skin and pores with the Green Tea Matcha mud mask. It is one of the best face masks for removing build-up that causes clogged pores, as it is made with a unique formula containing green tea extracts, antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and volcanic mud. It refines pores, oxygenates the skin, heals sun damage, reduces aging signs, and improves cellular function too. The mask gives you a spa-like treatment and restores your skin’s moisture levels. This review video takes you through a tester’s experience with the product.
Pros
- Green tea matcha helps reduce acne
- Powerful minerals in the mask help detox skin
- Volcanic mud vitamins and minerals work on all skin types
- Vitamin K in the mask helps with dark circles under the eyes
Cons
- May not suit sensitive skin
- Fragrance may be intense for some
"I've tried multiple face masks; this mud mask calms my occasional adult acne without drying my skin. While it doesn't produce a significant difference compared to other masks, it improves the feel of my skin. The creamy texture is a treat for a home spa day, and I love the application brush. It effectively cleanses my pores, removing even the most stubborn sebum."
6. Best With Activated Charcoal: Vanelc Blackhead Removal Mask
It provides a cooling effect and goes deep into the skin pores to remove blackheads and dirt. The moisturizing peel-off face mask contains activated charcoal and natural ingredients to balance oil, soften the skin, and keep it clean and fresh.
Pros
- Enriched with bamboo charcoal, plant extracts, glycerin, and vitamin E
- Easy to peel off
- Purifies and deep cleanses pores to retain skin’s original beauty
- Shrinks pores after every use to give a clearer complexion
Cons
- Not suitable for sensitive skin
- May not help in removing blackheads
"While the small bottle size shocked me, the thick, easy-to-spread formula was impressive. However, the application and peeling could be a bit challenging unless the mask is thick and fully dried. It offers great results with soft, clean skin and clear pores."
Do rememberDo not use an exfoliator after a purifying or peel-off mask, as the top layer of your skin is already sensitive after the treatment.
7. Best Easy To Use: Auperwel Blackhead Mask
It is a naturally formulated peel-off face mask that contains activated bamboo charcoal, aloe vera, and Hamamelis virginiana to remove acne, whiteheads, and blackheads from your skin and make it tender and smooth.
Pros
- Improves skin vitality by removing blackheads
- Comes in user-friendly tube
- Clears deep pores and absorbs facial oil
- Comes with tweezers to remove stubborn blackheads on nose
Cons
- May not be easy to peel off
- May not suit sensitive skin
"I tried this face mask a week ago, and it's given me decent results so far. Removing it takes effort, but if you hold your skin while peeling it off, the discomfort is minimal. I would recommend it if you don't have too many blackheads to remove."
8. Best With Phytoactives: Glamglow Supermud Clearing Treatment
The Glamglow Supermud instant clarifying treatment mask helps exfoliate and deep cleanse the pores with its dirt-attracting formulation. The mask for pore reduction contains a combination of glycolic acid, salicylic acid, activated charcoal, K-17 clay, and other well-performing acids. These active ingredients effectively unclog pores and leave the skin looking clear, smooth, and refreshed.
Pros
- Suitable for acne-prone skin
- Minimal product required
- Removes excess oil
- Enriched with phytoactives
- pH-balancing BHAs and AHAs
Cons
- May be cumbersome to scoop out the product
- Might not be ideal for extremely sensitive skin
"Got this to reduce the appearance of my pores. It momentarily tightens up the skin and leaves it feeling fresh, bright, and clean. However, it's slightly difficult to wash off and has a slight burning effect. Despite that, it's easy to apply and does not cause breakouts."
Quick tipIdentify your skin concern before choosing a mask. Opt for clay masks for purification, sheet masks for hydration, and sleep masks for anti-wrinkle properties.
9. Best With Kaolin Clay:Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Clay Masque
Minimize the appearance of pores and blackheads effortlessly with the Kiehl’s Rare Earth pore-cleansing Amazonian white clay mask. A go-to choice of beauty experts, this mask’s potent key ingredients include kaolin white clay, bentonite clay, and minerals that effectively unclog pores by absorbing all skin impurities. This pore-cleansing mask also helps improve skin texture by reducing the amount of oil produced by the skin. For visible results, apply a thin layer of this mask, allow it to dry for ten minutes, and then gently remove it with a wet warm towel.
Pros
- Clinically tested formula
- Aloe vera soothes and hydrates the skin
- Helps keep the skin free of toxins
- Exfoliates and deep-cleanses the skin
- Minerals assist in refining the skin’s texture
Cons
- May cause skin irritation for some
- May take time to show noticeable results
"I adore this clay mask. It works well on a combo of oily and dry skin, and despite its size, it lasts. The application feels good, though removing it can be tricky. It left my skin soft and moisturized and even helped with my occasional blemishes."
10. Best Fragrance-Free:Glytone Acne Treatment Mask
The Glytone acne face mask contains 6.4% sulfur, known for its acne-fighting properties. It is also formulated to help unclog pores, reduce excess oil, and diminish the appearance of new breakouts. The mask is fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin, and it contains salicylic acid, which helps exfoliate dead skin cells from the surface of the skin.
Pros
- Hydro-gel matrix for long-term hydration
- Contains bentonite clay
- Blocks acne-causing bacteria
- Reduces inflammation and the appearance of enlarged pores
Cons
- Consistency may be a bit thick
- May be difficult to apply, as it dries quickly
"This mask is convenient and eases up breakouts overnight. Remember, ditch the silver jewelry when using it - sulfur dislikes silver. It's a recommendable mask if you're after milder relief."
What Causes Clogged Pores?
Here are some of the common reasons for clogged pores.
- Over-cleansing: Overdoing anything is not a good idea. Whether you are washing or exfoliating your face too often or using plenty of cosmetics or makeup, your natural oil will get washed away, thereby causing more production of oil. Excess oil on the skin can clog your skin pores.
- Dead skin: Human skin sheds old and dead skin cells and creates new ones. However, due to the increased production of oil, dead cells may accumulate on the surface of the skin. If the face is not exfoliated, then those cells may clog your pores.
- Oily skin: When the sebaceous glands (that secrete natural oils) become overactive, they tend to produce more oil. When the oil is not controlled, it may build up and clog the skin pores.
- Others: Hormones, smoking, stress, diet, sun damage, aging, and not cleaning your face regularly are some other reasons that may lead to clogging of your skin pores.
How To Use A Face Mask?
Follow a step-by-step approach to get visible results when using a face mask.
- Cleanse your face using a good-quality cleanser, spend some additional time around the T-zone of your face. Then rinse it with warm water.
- Use a toner to exfoliate impurities and dead skin cells. Apply it with a cotton pad, by sweeping from the center in an outward direction.
- Apply the face mask to dry skin to remove dirt, excess oil, and other toxins from your face. You may use a brush or fingertips and gently spread the mask all over your face, leaving the eyes and mouth area. Keep it for about 20 minutes and then wash it off with water.
- Moisturize your face using a high-quality cream. Do not skip this step as it helps to hydrate your face. Use your fingertips and gently apply the cream all over your face.
How To Choose The Right Face Mask For Clogged Pores?
Facial masks are available for several reasons. Here is how you should check if the mask is for unclogging pores.
- Ingredients: Make sure to check the ingredient list, as only certain specific ingredients effectively unclog pores and give you healthy skin.For instance, clay and charcoal are absorbents, and they draw out dirt and oil from your skin. Salicylic acid unclogs pores, exfoliates, and reduces acne signs, and retinol helps shrink pores. Check if the mask has these active ingredients. Some other substances to look for include zinc and alpha hydroxy acid. Opt for masks that are not tested on animals and have environmentally friendly ingredients to reduce your carbon footprint.
- Mask types: There are sheet masks, bubble masks, brightening, and sleep masks available in the market. To unclog pores, you may use charcoal and clay masks and peel-off face masks, as they also remove toxins and impurities and give a fresh finish to your face.
- Skin type: You need to pick masks as per your skin type as well. If you have sensitive skin, then tight facial masksor chemical-induced masks could be harmful for your skin. If you have dry skin, then look for masks that can not only open pores but also hydrate your skin. So, choose a face mask that suits your skin type to get visible results.
- Irritating agents: Do not select masks that include certain irritating agents such as mint, menthol, alcohol, fragrances, camphor, and eucalyptus. These may cause redness or itch your skin. Rather choose masks with organic and clinically tested ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do face masks reduce pores?
The size of the pores expands when they are clogged with dead skin cells and sebum. Thus, cleansing or detoxifying face masks can remove the dirt from the pores, making them appear visibly and temporarily small.
2. How can I clear my face pores?
One of the most effective ways of cleaning pores is to use face masks that contain cleansing agents like activated charcoal and certain leaf extracts that flush out dirt and dead skin from the pores (1) (2).
3. How can I tighten my pores?
It is crucial to keep unclogging the pores regularly to visibly tighten them. Face masks with charcoal and certain skin-friendly clays can help in this process (3).
4. Do clay masks close pores?
Clay masks may not wholly close skin pores permanently, but they can prevent them from enlarging further by keeping them clean and clear.
The Bottom Line
If you have clogged pores that cause frequent breakouts, dirt buildup, and other skin troubles, you need the best face mask for open pores. These face masks are thoughtfully designed and enriched with safe ingredients that unclog pores by cleaning them of gunk, oil, and acne-causing bacteria. However, ensure to choose a face mask free of harsh chemicals such as parabens and silicones, suitable for your skin type, and with natural ingredients to prevent irritation and to get smooth, healthy skin. Our top recommendations include the acne-reducing New York Biology Dead Sea Mud Mask, which has over 21 minerals, and the Meditime Pore Tightening Corset Mask, which can make the skin look even by removing blackheads and whiteheads.
Infographic: How To Care For Open Pores On Face?
Open pores on the face are a common skin concern that can affect the appearance and texture of the skin. Understanding the causes and effective treatment options for open pores can help you minimize their visibility and achieve a smoother complexion. Explore the infographic below to discover effective skincare tips to manage open pores.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Formulation And Evaluation Of Activated CharcoaPeel-Off Mask
http://ijccts.org/fulltext/17-1558929589.pdf - The Potency Of Artocarpus Heterophyllus Leaf As A Facial Skin Care Ingredient In Clay Mask Formulation
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/341097173_The_Potency_of_Artocarpus_Heterophyllus_Leaf_as_a_Facial_Skin_Care_Ingredient_in_Clay_Mask_Formulation - Formulation And Evaluation Of Clay Face Pack
https://www.jpionline.org/index.php/ijpi/article/view/1183
Why Trust MomJunction?
Poulami Nag is a skincare enthusiast and reviewer who has conducted comprehensive research to make this list of the best face masks for open pores. She has the know-how about skincare products that deal with issues caused by clogged pores, such as blackheads, pimples, and acne. In this article, she has reviewed each product in detail and gone through user reviews to ensure the readers know the features of the top products in the market.
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