When we asked “ What's the best face mask for dealing with acne?' you answered. And you answered in droves. So it seemed only right that we showcase some of the best answers for posterity, in one place. As follows is a list of your favorites—along with this advice from dermatologist Erin Kil, M.D. of TriBeCa Skin Center, who says the anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties in bentonite and sulfur are your best friend. (Word of the wise, though: Always test a small bit of any new mask on a small section of your skin before going full-face. Better safe than red-faced and irritated.)
*The Most Mentioned
*Racking up the tallies, we have Origins Clear Improvement Charcoal mask “if nothing seems to help any more” (it’s also recommended by Dr. Kil). Glamglow Supermud Clearing treatment “literally pulls oils out of your pores!” YULI's Pure Mask “Of course the line is expensive (but super green with really amazing ingredients) but their mask is seriously the BEST for getting rid of acne.”
The Cheapest (perfect for beginners)
- Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay Mask (we've extolled the benefits before)
- Queen Helen Mint Julip mask. “Seriously,” one reader says.
- Formula 10.0.6's Deep Down Detox Ultra Cleansing Mud Mask ($6!)
- Innisfree's Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask “feels like Glamglow's Supermud for half the price,” says Sabrina.
For Spot Treating
“For pimples that have a white head, Nexcare Acne Patches are everything!” according to Maggi. “It sucks out all the bad stuff, or if you have squeezed it clean you can place the patch on top to absorb any thing that's left and to help the pimple heal faster.”
Julia Race says “ Dr. Dennis Gross Clarifying Colloidal Sulfur Mask is the bomb. Works like a charm as a spot treatment but I've also read you can use it as an oil controlling primer.”
The Most Unusual
Five of you agreed with Fallon Dee who revealed, “Sometimes I use Weleda Calendula Diaper Rash Cream . I know it's odd butttt (muahahah) it's the best-kept secret of the glowing man at my local health food store. Also works like a magic freaking stick as a spot treatment!” Hey, whatever works.
A Quick Tip For The Road
Add a drop of tea tree oil to your face mask. Reader Marsha shares, “I always have the best results with powdered white clay by A. Vogel, mixed with filtered water and a drop of tea tree oil. It brings a lot of blood to your face to help heal skin and the tea tree clears up existing blemishes.”
Valery Kaufman (The Society) photographed by Tom Newton. To answer more of beauty's pressing questions, click here.
