9 clever clay masks for every skin concern under the sun

Large pores, uneven skin texture and excessive oil production got you feeling down? Stress less sis because the bad gal herself has created a solution for oily-skinned folks everywhere. This whipped clay mask utilises charcoal and salicylic acid to refine the appearance of pores, smooth texture and keep unwanted shine at bay.  

$49 at Sephora

Formulated to help minimise the effects of all the pollutants, toxins and dirt we come into contact with every day, this mask is our top pick for detoxifying skin fast (just 10 minutes to be exact). Australian pink clay deeply cleanses, purifies and tightens pores, Old Man’s weed evens skin tone and minimises the appearance of pigmentation, while vitamin C-rich Kakadu plum simultaneously protects skin from pollutants and boosts radiance. 

$60.90 at Sand & Sky

This brightening clay mask works to purify and revitalise the complexion with an array of nourishing, soothing and clarifying ingredients. Formulated with aloe vera, vitamin E, witch hazel and kaolin clay this mask helps to detoxify pores, refine texture and tone, and reveal a brighter complexion overall. 

$49.95 at Alya Skin

Black charcoal as well as montmorillonite, ghassoul and kaolin clays are hard at work in this mask, allowing it to effectively draw out impurities (such as dirt, oil and pollution) while also detoxifying the skin’s surface. You don't need to stress about the formula setting before you've finished applying (or setting super, super hard once you're done) either; it doesn’t dry down for a hot minute (or 15 to be exact), so both putting it on and getting it off should be a breeze.

$17.49 at Chemist Warehouse

Clay masks aren't exactly known for their hydrating properties as a whole, but this deeply moisturising flannel flower and white clay combination proves that they can be just as nourishing as they are balancing. Basically, it's one of the very few clay formulas you could actually leave on overnight without waking up looking and feeling like something out of a horror movie, and it's gentle enough for irritated, sensitive and acne-prone skin.

$69 at Adore Beauty

A cult-favourite option for acne-prone skin types, this calcium bentonite clay mask bills itself as the ‘world’s most powerful facial’ and while that’s a huge claim, apparently the hype is real – it’s Amazon Australia’s number one best-selling face mask. Two things to remember when using: you'll need to mix it with water before application, and it doesn't come to play re: detoxing, so a little post-rinse redness is totally normal and will settle after about 30 minutes.

$19.49 at Amazon Australia

Sensitive skin types can't always get in on the on-trend mask action, so a clay blend able to soothe irritation rather than trigger it is honestly a blessing – because sensitive skin gets congested just like any other kind! This clever calming clay mask heroes a mix of French green clay, Great Barrier Reef mineral salt and vitamin B5 to purify while still replenishing your skin's hydration levels (instead of drying it out). Hallelujah!

$42.90 at ChemPro

Clay masks may traditionally work to draw impurities out rather than slough them off, but this one teams two types of mattifying clays (kaolin and bentonite) with two types of exfoliating acids (lactic and salicylic) to get rid of dead skin and congestion in one swift application. But while a polishing-and-purifying wonder sounds great, it has the potential to be a little harsh – luckily, willow herb is also in the mix to keep skin equal parts soothed and smooth.

$65 at Adore Beauty

Dry skin folk rejoice, because you can now finally join the clay mask crew without fear of drying out your skin further. Formulated with a nourishing mix of fruit extracts and hydrating vitamin E, this convenient clay mask even comes in stick form. You can say goodbye to messy mud-based application and hello to this ultra-brightening clay stick.

$29.99 at Chemist Warehouse