In the midst of midterm season, acne breakouts, clogged pores, and dull skin, unfortunately, are a common result. Stress, sleep deprivation, and dehydration all take a toll on our skin. To rescue your skin from these challenges, we’ve rounded up seven of the best face masks to get your complexion back on track.
1. Peter Thomas Roth Irish Moor Mud Purifying Black Mask (Available at Sephora or Ulta) $58
Peter Thomas Roth is a clinical skincare brand, and their products, which fight signs of aging, sun damage, and acne, yield noticeable results. The Irish Moor Mud Mask is one of many impressive treatments that the brand offers, as it accomplishes many things at once. It decongests your skin, while simultaneously reducing the appearance of wrinkles and increasing hydration. In particular, it is wonderful for sensitive skin because you can leave it on for as long as twenty minutes without having to worry about irritation.
2. GlamGlow SUPERMUD Clearing Treatment (Available at Sephora) $69
Although this is the most expensive mask on the list, it is definitely worth the money. Everyone from beauty gurus on YouTube with millions of subscribers to A-list celebs swear by GlamGlow’s products. While the brand offers various formulas designed for almost every skin problem you may experience, their bestseller is this acne-zapping mud mask. The most unique aspect of this mask is that it turns grey and forms little holes when it dries, showing you that it deeply cleansed your pores. Leave this mask on for as long as you would like. But, if you have delicate skin, you may want to wear it for a maximum of ten minutes to avoid redness and irritation.
3. Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask (Available at Sephora or Ulta) $58
Similar to the GlamGlow mask in intensity, this enzymatic peel and exfoliating mask kills acne-causing bacteria. Pumpkin is known for being a wonderful yet natural way to resurface your skin. Plus, it smells very yummy! Because this mask is so strong, leave it on for no more than five minutes. Keep in mind that this treatment isn’t for everyone, especially if you have super sensitive skin. Also, if you feel a warming sensation, don’t panic! It means that the mask is working. If you are in the midst of a skin “freak out,” perhaps from all those stressful midterm exams, and you are in need of a quick-fix, then definitely give this a try.
4. Origins Original Skin Retexturizing Mask with Rose Clay (Available at Ulta or Sephora) $26
Origins is a brand known for its naturally-derived products, and their masks have definitely been one of the biggest hits in the beauty community. This mask is a marvelous multi-tasker! When struggling with breakouts, you skin also tends to become very dull. The clay base of this mask helps clear breakouts, while the beaded texture both exfoliates your skin to make it appear brighter and refines your pores. Plus, the mask has a relaxing, rose scent.
5. Freeman Mint and Lemon Clay Mask (Available at Ulta or CVS) $4.29
Probably the most affordable yet high quality mask you will ever stumble upon, this product is fabulous for treating breakouts. It clears your skin of dirt and city debris, and it tightens your pores. Additionally, because it is clay-based, it’s perfect to use as a spot treatment for those pesky pimples that you want to get rid of overnight. It’s even gentle enough that you can use it up to two times a week.
6. SkinFood Egg White Pore Mask (Available at Ulta) $10.50
For those of you who long for invisibly-small pores, this product will become your new best friend. The formula uses egg whites as its primary base ingredient, which is known to have skin-refining properties. Egg whites deliver protein, have a multitude of vitamins, and reduce sebum production, which creates pimples. The mask also moisturizes your skin and reduces inflammation. SkinFood’s Egg White Pore Mask is an all-in-one miracle product, and it is available at a price that will still leave you with some extra spending money.
7. Pores by Pure Skin-Clarifying Mask $6.99 (Available at Ulta)
For a wallet-friendly clay mask like this, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how strong the formula is. Therefore, if you have fragile skin, we recommend that you steer clear of this treatment. However, if you are searching for an intense product to combat clogged pores, then give this mask a go. As an added bonus, it has a delicious, fresh berry aroma.  Â
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Header image: Ashley Benson / Instagram
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