Clogged pores are usually caused by excessive amounts of oil, the accumulation of dead skin cells, and other debris that accumulate on the skin throughout the day. For some, it’s hereditary; for others, it boils down to daily habits – how you wash your face regularly, clean your makeup brushes and pillowcases, and even your residence and how much pollution you are. The good news is that the best pore mask can help you as long as you choose the right pore type for your skin.
Vogue’s Favorite mask clogs pores
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Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Hole Cleansing Mask
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In the future, we ask leading experts to break down what is really causing pore clogging, whether or not the orifice masks actually work, and the formulas they recommend. Keep reading to discover our favorites – from classic clay masks to shocking sheet masks.
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The best clay mask: Caudalie Instant Stutox Mask
- Why we like it: Use clay faces with eternal rituals, especially when shared with friends. The overnight approval of Caudalie’s detox mask uses pink clay and caffeine, said Dr. Dara Spearman, a board-certified dermatologist, helps absorb impurities, regulates oil production and reduces the appearance of pores. For best results, she recommends using it twice a week and fixing it for 10 minutes without any more or less. Murray assured us that while many clay masks will make the skin feel tight, “the mask will have the exact opposite result – it makes the skin clear and hydrated.”
- Key Ingredients: Caffeine, natural grape extract, sustainable procurement of clay
- type: Clay mask
- size: 75 ml
The best collagen mask: Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask
- Why we like it: You may recognize this mask as a viral tiktok favorite, but it works just as well as fashion. when FashionHer senior beauty writer Kiana Murden took the test last summer and she was shocked by the results. According to Dr Spearman, the formula is designed to enhance a mixture of collagen peptides, semi-morbidacea, hyaluronic acid and nicotinamide. Together, these ingredients help minimize the appearance of pores, improve skin elasticity, delicate tones and texture, enhance hydration, and soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. For best results, she recommends keeping the mask overnight so that the skin can absorb it completely – it is obvious that it maintains the posture and does not leave a pillow behind.
- Key Ingredients: Collagen peptide, Semimophila, Hyaluronic acid, Niacinamide
- type:Plate mask
- size:n/a
The best mud film: Blue Lagoon Skin Care Silica Mud Mask
- Why we like it: Famous for its use of Icelandic blue lagoon microalgae and silica, this mask is a clarified option for those prone to oily or excessive accumulation. “It helps minimize the appearance of pores and even reduces the complexion,” Dr Spearman said. “This works for all skin types and fragrance-free I like.” Use multiple times a week, keep it for 5 to 10 minutes, and then rinse it gently with a towel.
- Key Ingredients: Blue lagoon mineral salt, blue lagoon silicon dioxide
- type: Mud film
- size: 30 ml, 75 ml
Best for enlarging pores: Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Hole Cleansing Mask
- Why we like it: According to beautician friendly Murray, Kiehl’s cleansing mask gives a “shrink” pore feel, thanks to a mixture of Amazon white clay and aloe, which also helps hydrate the skin. Clinical promising: two weeks later, the clogged pores decreased significantly by 44%. However, Murray notes that while skin care can’t actually change the pore size, similar masks can supplement regular cleaning, exfoliating and hydrating. For best results, apply a thin layer and leave it for 10 minutes before removing it with a warm wet towel to avoid any residue left.
- Key Ingredients: Amazon white clay, aloe vera
- type: Clay mask
- size: 125 ml
The best Korean: The beauty of Joseon Red Bean Bean Bean Mask
- Why we like it: Like many K-Beauty products, this mask puts hydration first. “This is one of the most moisturizing methods of these masks. It contains kaolin clay, which makes the skin feel hydrated rather than too tight.” Murray explains. The formula pairs clay with antioxidant-rich red bean extracts both have the benefits of purifying and enhancing. Alexandra Bowles, a board-certified dermatologist, added: “It’s enough to accommodate sensitive skin, but it still refines the texture and cleans up pores effectively. I appreciate the smooth, slightly whipped texture that is easy to apply and rinse.”
- Key Ingredients: Haenam red bean extract, kaolin clay
- type: Clay mask
- size: 140 ml
Best for oily skin: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clay Mask
- Why we like it: “This dermatologist-tested mask is perfect for oily or acne-prone skin and helps balance oil and calming irritation.” It is a favorite of French pharmacies, with a creamy clay texture that can be spread easily and rinsed without leaving any residue. However, Murray notes that she will retain the mask’s true oily skin because it also contains salicylic acid, an effective exfoliator that is best suited for oily or juvenile skin, to help exile bursts and refine pores.
- Key Ingredients: Kaolin clay, glycerin, nicotinamide, salicylic acid
- type: Clay mask
- size: 100 ml
The best cooling: Olehenriksen cold hole hole mask
- Why we like it: As the name suggests, this mask by Olehenriksen has a refreshing, cooler effect on the applied coating, which quickly tightens pores and brightens the complexion. According to Dr. Bowles, this is through the combination of clay and cucumber extract that keeps the skin hydrated and balanced. Think of it as a mini spa treatment at home with a subtle, fresh scent and bright blue tones – we dare you not take selfies.
- Key Ingredients: Kaolin, purple clay extract, salicylic acid
- type: Clay mask
- size: 90 ml
Best for acne-prone skin: Peter Thomas Roth
- Why we like it: This mask is a good choice for those who are prone to acne, Dr Spearman said. “It is made of 10% sulfur, kaolin and bentonite clay, which helps reduce the frequency of breakthroughs, exfoliate, and absorb excess oil. It also contains aloe that will naturally soothe and shorten the skin.” And if you don’t want to apply it all to your face, you can use it as a overnight spot therapy to help clear active breakthroughs.
- Key Ingredients: 10% sulfur, kaolin, bentonite clay, aloe
- type:Sulphur mask
- size: 150 ml
Best for traffic congestion: JART+ DERMASK PORECTING SOUSE FACE Mask
- Why we like it: This mask is a K-Beauty favorite, using charcoal and clay to draw impurities and control excess oil, making it a clever choice for crowded skin. “It has a smooth gel-like texture that sticks comfortably to the face and doesn’t feel uncomfortable,” she said. “I love how it makes the skin feel clean without peeling off natural moisture.” As a facial mask, traveling at home or multitasking is especially convenient; don’t be surprised to see the bubbles after a few minutes, though.
- Key Ingredients: Charcoal, clay
- type:Plate mask
- size: 1 mask
The best purification: La Mer the Deep Purification Mask
- Why we like it: Despite some splurge, Dr. Powers explained that La Mer’s mask indulges in minerals and provides a luxurious spa. It purifies pores while keeping the skin soft, hydrated and comfortable, while some clay masks can’t leave a tight or dry feeling. “I love how it feels, the subtle, soothing scent adds to the pampering experience. It’s ideal for weekend self-care rituals when you want some extra luxury,” she said. “A slight sting is normal, but make sure to remove it once you use an enclosed sponge to transfer from the deep kelp green to the lighter shade.
- Key Ingredients: Miracle soup, opal fermentation
- type: Clay mask
- size: 1.6 oz.
The best peace: Hero Cosmetics Pore Purity Cleansing Clay Mask
- Why we like it: This mask is gentle and effective, pulling out debris and excess oil without the irritation that some clay formulas will cause. “Its creamy clay texture spreads easily and is dry enough to feel purified. I love that it balances the skin and makes it look fresh and healthy,” Dr. Powers said. It works quickly, too, so you need ten minutes. A faint earthy smell adds a calming touch, so if you have predicted therapy and meditation, this may solve the problem.
- Key Ingredients: Spirulina, glacial sea clay, volcanic clay, kelp biofermentation
- type: Clay mask
- size: 70 ml
Everything you need to know
What causes pore blockage?
According to Dr. Powers, clogged pores occur when oil, dead skin cells, dirt or other debris are trapped in tiny openings in the skin. “These pores are home to hair follicles and sebaceous glands, which release oil and sweat, so when they become crowded, blemishes such as blackheads, whiteheads and breakthroughs can appear.” While blocked pores are the most common, they can also appear on the neck, back, chest and even the scalp. Pore clogging can occur in anyone, although more often among teenagers and young people, as hormones increase oil production. Genetics plays a role, too, so if your family runs acne or oily skin, you may be at higher risk. “Environmental factors like taking off makeup, touching your face, wearing a helmet or tight clothing, or even pollution can make pore blockage worse.”
Is the orifice mask really effective?
Pore masks, especially those that activate charcoal, have become popular in targeting clogged pores and excessive oil. While there are some snake oil options out there, our experts believe the right mask can really help.
Murray notes that depending on its formula and ingredients, these orifices exfoliate and absorb oil from the pores, making the skin look clearer and more refined. Dr. Bowles especially likes activated charcoal, which is made from naturally rich materials such as bamboo, coconut or wood that are heated into fine powder filled with tiny pores. These pores capture toxins, dirt and bacteria on the skin surface. “When used as a mask, it can really help absorb impurities and make your skin feel clean and refreshed, which is ideal for those with blackheads or acne-prone skin,” she explained.
That said, Dr. Powers warns that while charcoal masks are effective in removing surface debris and oil, they won’t magically erase pores or provide long-term exfoliation or anti-aging benefits. “I always emphasize the importance of safety and orifice masks. A peeling mask can irritate sensitive skin or cause stripping, scarring or allergic reactions in extreme cases.”
