What to Look for in an Exfoliating Mask

Choosing the right exfoliating mask can help you achieve smoother, brighter skin without irritation.

1. Exfoliation Type

Citrus catapult arrow

Exfoliating masks use either physical (scrubs) or chemical (AHAs, BHAs, enzymes) exfoliants. Chemical exfoliants are often gentler and more effective for most skin types, while physical exfoliants provide immediate smoothing but can be abrasive.

2. Skin Type Compatibility

Citrus catapult arrow

Select a mask formulated for your specific skin type. Sensitive or dry skin may benefit from gentle enzyme-based masks, while oily or acne-prone skin can tolerate stronger acids like salicylic acid.

3. Active Ingredients

Citrus catapult arrow

Look for proven ingredients such as glycolic acid, lactic acid, fruit enzymes, or charcoal. These ingredients help remove dead skin cells and unclog pores for a clearer complexion.

4. Hydration and Soothing Benefits

Citrus catapult arrow

A good exfoliating mask should also include hydrating and calming ingredients—like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, or chamomile—to prevent over-drying and soothe the skin after exfoliation.

  1. 1
    Exfoliating Mask

    Joanna Vargas

    98 REVIEWS
    This purifying mask with kaolin clay, volcanic ash, and exfoliants reveals a visibly brighter complexion using natural and botanical extracts.
  2. 2
    Clarifying Mask

    Tata Harper

    509 REVIEWS
    Restore clarity to blemish-prone skin with this complexion-perfecting mask full of AHA superfruits and exfoliating quartz sand crystals.
  3. 3
    Glacial Clay Detox Mask
    237 REVIEWS
    A detoxifying, mineral-rich Glacial Clay mask that works to clarify congested skin.
  4. 4
    Clarifying Clay Masque

    SkinCeuticals

    203 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Non-drying face mask that combines kaolin and bentonite - the highest quality of natural earth clays. 
  5. 5
    Power Pore Refining Mask
    39 REVIEWS
    Exclusive
    Detoxifies and helps refine pores with salicylic acid and niacinamide 
  6. 6
    Turmeric and Cranberry Seed Energizing Radiance Masque
    222 REVIEWS
    An energizing radiance mask that helps visibly brighten dull, fatigued skin
  7. 7
    Lava Scrub Mask

    Blue Lagoon Skincare

    4 REVIEWS
    This energizing facial, sourced from the volcanic area surrounding Blue Lagoon in Iceland, leaves skin feeling fortified, smooth, and revived.
  8. 8
    Hibiscus Smoothing Mask

    Chantecaille

    4 REVIEWS
    A gentle yet effective re-texturing mask infused with extracts of papaya and fresh grapefruit as well as flower acids derived from revitalizing hibiscus.

What to Look for in an Exfoliating Mask

Choosing the right exfoliating mask can help you achieve smoother, brighter skin without irritation.

1. Exfoliation Type

Citrus catapult arrow

Exfoliating masks use either physical (scrubs) or chemical (AHAs, BHAs, enzymes) exfoliants. Chemical exfoliants are often gentler and more effective for most skin types, while physical exfoliants provide immediate smoothing but can be abrasive.

2. Skin Type Compatibility

Citrus catapult arrow

Select a mask formulated for your specific skin type. Sensitive or dry skin may benefit from gentle enzyme-based masks, while oily or acne-prone skin can tolerate stronger acids like salicylic acid.

3. Active Ingredients

Citrus catapult arrow

Look for proven ingredients such as glycolic acid, lactic acid, fruit enzymes, or charcoal. These ingredients help remove dead skin cells and unclog pores for a clearer complexion.

4. Hydration and Soothing Benefits

Citrus catapult arrow

A good exfoliating mask should also include hydrating and calming ingredients—like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, or chamomile—to prevent over-drying and soothe the skin after exfoliation.