Three clay masks that make it easier than ever before to put your best face forward

Clay, glorious clay. From as far back as 60 BC, the soft mineral substances have been used topically for soothing the skin and formulas have only improved with time. Nowadays, clay face masks can help remove sebum (or oil), banish impurities and reduce inflammation or breakouts. And, thanks to their nutrient-rich composition, they can also hydrate, detoxify, nourish and revitalise your skin.

But just like there are no two identical fingerprints, there are no two identical clays – or clay masks, for that matter. For example, two of the most popular clays used in skincare, kaolin and bentonite, feature a different mineral makeup and thus offer different benefits. Kaolin, for instance, soothes and hydrates, whereas bentonite sucks up excess oil and detoxifies the skin. Hence, these clays are oft used in combination for more effective results.

To save you from having to dig deep into clay masks yourself, we’ve pulled together three of the best formulas on Amazon for your next pamper session.

Pure Biology Premium Clay Mask

If you’re looking to rid your skin of impurities, Pure Biology has just the mask. Formulated with both bentonite and kaolin clay, as well as retinol, Vitamin B, C, E and natural alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), it is one of the most potent detoxifiers on the market. Fit for all skin types, the exfoliating formula cleanses deep into the skin to remove excess oil, minimise pores and banish blackheads. The Vitamin C and collagen work together to soothe the skin and protect it against free radicals, while the Vitamin B adds elasticity and evens out your complexion. It also has a little touch of retinol and NaturePep Pea, which helps to reduce fine lines and brighten the skin. What more do you need?

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Baxter of California Clay Mask for Men

Baxter of California’s purifying clay mask is designed to penetrate even the toughest skin. The deep cleansing treatment features both bentonite and kaolin clay that work in tandem to remove impurities and excess oils. It also features AHAs, which gently peel away the surface of your skin so that new, more evenly pigmented skin cells grow and take its place. To prevent any dryness, the formula is jampacked with supercharged botanical extracts, such as avocado oil and aloe vera, which help to moisturize and hydrate. According to the brand, skin is smooth and revitalized in less than 10 minutes. That means you can pop it on while you’re making your evening tipple.

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Anthony Deep Pore Cleansing Clay

Looking for a face mask that will deliver a real deep clean? Anthony’s may be just what you’re looking for. Made up of a formula that includes kaolin and bentonite clays, apricot kernel oil, calendula and vitamins A, C and E, this mask absorbs impurities while also removing dirt, sweat and oil from your face. Best suited for normal and oily skin, it’s also very easy to use. Simply apply it to your face, let it sit for five to 10 minutes and rinse it away with warm water.

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This story was first published on Robb Report US