Our faces endure some pretty intense abuse in the summertime — we're talking sun exposure, sweat, and clogged pores galore. There's no better or easier way to hit the reset button on your complexion than with a good ol' detox mask.
"Daily pollution can cause low-level irritation in the skin, so [it's] best to detox every two weeks," says Elizabeth Tanzi, MD, founder and director of Capital Laser & Skin Care and clinical professor of dermatology at the George Washington Medical Center.
With the help of Dr. Tanzi, we broke down the best formulas and ingredients for you based on your skin type and budget. Click through to find your face-mask soulmate and emerge with cleaner, more radiant skin.
Acne-Prone Skin
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People with acne-prone and oily skin types are more likely to have clogged pores than others, so detox masks serve as serious skin-saviors. Dr. Tanzi advises to look for charcoal-based options "because [the charcoal] acts almost like a magnet to draw impurities out of pores."
This mask from GlamGlow is a holy-grail favorite that won't let you down. As it dries, you'll be able to see — and feel — the deep-cleansing treatment work its magic.
GlamGlow, $69.00, available at Sephora
Acne-Prone Skin
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If you're looking for a more affordable option, this warming mask from Bioré is a great option. It contains natural charcoal and is pretty entertaining to use: As you rub it into your face, the formula heats up while removing dirt and oil.
Biore, $6.99, available at Ulta Beauty
Oily Skin
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For those with greasier visages, Dr. Tanzi recommends clay-based masks to absorb oil. This detoxifying mask from Wei is made with a base of soft clay, which removes dirt from the skin without leaving it too tight or dry. It comes with a brush that will make you feel extra-fancy as you swipe it on. Don't let the small containers fool you; each contains enough product for two uses.
Wei Beauty, $42.00, available at Wei Beauty
Oily Skin
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Move over, sheet masks: There's a new trend in town, and it goes by the name of modeling rubber mask. Mix the clay-and-botanical concoction together, slap it on your face, and wait as it dries to a rubbery texture. After about 15 minutes, it will conform to the shape of your face, lifting away impurities while supplying nutrients to the skin. Pro tip: Layer on the mixture very thickly, paying close attention to the edges, will make it easier to peel off.
Lindsay, $11.00, available at Glow Recipe
Combination Skin
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"A moisturizing mask with glycolic acid will help balance [combination] skin," says Dr. Tanzi. Ren's renewal mask (with lactic, citric, and glycolic acids) multitasks by brightening skin, fading hyperpigmentation, minimizing the appearance of pores, and softening fine lines.
Ren, $55.00, available at Sephora
Combination Skin
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This peel-off mask instantly refreshes skin, giving you that post-facial feeling. With its star ingredient — honey — it exfoliates while hydrating.
Hey Honey, $29.00, available at Hey Honey
Normal Skin
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Those with normal skin should search for masks with antioxidants, says Dr. Tanzi. Nude's Miracle Mask is infused with hyaluronic acid to deliver massive hydration and jasmine flower, an antioxidant that protects the skin.
Nude Skincare, $48.00, available at Sephora
Normal Skin
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This multitasking mask eliminates impurities while breathing new life into your skin. It foams up like shaving cream and bubbles away with water, leaving skin radiant and glowing. The rave reviews don't lie, guys.
Sephora Collection, $19.00, available at Sephora
Sensitive Skin
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Dr. Tanzi recommends sensitive types try out single-use sheet masks because they "have fewer preservatives and won’t irritate sensitive skin." Plus, they're easy to use and soothing. This option from Dr. Jart provides superior moisture.
Dr. Jart+, $20.00, available at Sephora
Sensitive Skin
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Sensitive types should also look for sheet masks with hyaluronic acid or sodium hyaluronate in the ingredients list, Dr. Tanzi advises. This one from K lairs is made of 100% pure organic cotton and won't irritate even the most sensitive types.
Klairs, $2.00, available at Soko Glam
Dry Skin
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Parched-skin peeps, be warned: Don't shell out for detox masks, as they'll only dehydrate your skin more. Instead, Dr. Tanzi recommends investing in deeply hydrating masks with ingredients like shea butter.
Fresh's honey mask gives you a boost of antioxidants with vitamin E and sea-buckthorn oil, softens skin with honey, and protects against environmental stresses with echinacea.
Fresh Crème Ancienne Ultimate Nourishing Honey Mask, $140, available at Fresh.
Dry Skin
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With a double dose of moisture in the form of a rgan oil and shea butter, this vitamin-C-packed mask will hydrate skin while leaving your complexion looking brighter and smelling pretty glorious.
Korres, $18.00, available at Sephora
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