Face masks provide a rich layer of moisture directly to the skin. When worn for an extended period, a face mask will help reduce blemishes, tone skin, and erase fine lines and wrinkles – ultimately resulting in a much more youthful and healthy appearance.
While the benefits for your skin are unmatched, face masks also allow you to unwind and mentally reset, especially after a tough day.
Below, we wanted to share with you a few face masks that perform exceptionally well.
But before you make a purchase, consider the following:
Hydrating & Skin-Healing Face Masks Compared
Ranking | Face Mask | Size | Price | All Natural? | Scent | Country of Origin | Award | Rating |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Jaxon Lane Bro Mask | 2 Sheets | $25 | Yes | Unscented | USA | Trending | 96 |
2 | Beast Facial Balancing Mask | 3 oz. | $29 | Yes | Green Tea | USA | For Blackheads | 94 |
3 | Cardon Bamboo Charcoal Sheet Mask + Beard Oil | 4 Sheets | $24 | Yes | Fresh | Korea | For Beards | 93 |
4 | Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay | 16 oz. | $15 | Yes | Unscented | USA | Budget-Friendly | 92 |
5 | Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Minimizing Cleansing Clay Mask | 4.2 oz. | $34 | Yes | Aloe Vera | USA | Shrinks Pore Appearance | 91 |
6 | Wolf Project Hydrating Face Mask Sheet | 5 Sheets | $27 | Yes | Bamboo | Korea | Anti-Aging | 90 |
7 | Buttah Charcoal Detox Mask | 1 oz. | $24 | Yes | Rose | USA | Charcoal Base | 88 |
8 | 111SKIN Sub-Zero De-Puffing Energy Facial Masks | 5 Sheets | $32 | No | Fresh | London | Luxury Pick | 87 |
9 | The Body Shop Tea Tree Skin Clearing Clay Mask | 3.9 oz. | $14 | Yes | Tea Tree | England | For Acne | 86 |
10 | Kiehl’s Turmeric & Cranberry Seed Energizing Radiance Mask | 3.4 oz. | $55 | Yes | Unscented | USA | For Radiant Looking Skin | 85 |
11 | Oars and Alps Oil Attacker Face Mask | 2 oz. | $19 | Yes | Fresh | USA | Mattifies | 84 |
12 | Brickell Purifying Charcoal Face Mask for Men | 4 oz. | $19 | Yes | Unscented | USA | Natural & Organic | 83 |
13 | Malin+Goetz Detox Face Mask | 4 oz. | $48 | Yes | Tea Tree | USA | Fast Acting | 82 |
Best Face Masks of 2023
Here are the face masks we reviewed and rated:
Trending: Jaxon Lane Bro Mask
Founded in 2018 by husband and wife duo Jen and Alex, California-based Jaxon Lane is on a mission to make the very best skincare products for men – and it appears that they are doing just that.
Countless men’s magazines have recognized the award-winning Bro Mask as being head and heels above the competition.
But what makes it so good?
It delivers when it comes to results. The 100% hydrogel Bro Mask leans on proven skincare ingredients, including niacinamide, collagen, hyaluronic acid, peptides, and more. This skincare cocktail will instantly hydrate your skin, erase fine lines and wrinkles, tone, and make it appear and feel healthier.
The design of the mask is equally well thought out. The two-piece sheet mask is easy to apply and works whether you have facial hair or not.
Lastly, to sweeten the deal, the Bro Mask is affordable. At $28 for a four-pack, it delivers unmatched value.
Key Facts
- Compatible Skin Types: All
- Mask Type: Sheet (2-piece)
- Size: 4 Pack
What customers are saying: Some customers have experienced skin irritation and difficulty applying the mask. However, others have seen positive skin improvements and liked the two-piece design, despite the larger size.
Pros
- Hydrates and nourishes skin
- Erases fine lines and wrinkles
- Tones skin
Cons
- A few more sheets would be nice
For Blackheads: Beast Facial Balancing Mask
Managing blackheads can be a persistent challenge for a lot of men. To manage effectively, you need a carefully formulated mask that targets this problem. If you are looking for a solution to stubborn blackheads, consider this Facial Balancing Mask by Beast.
The nutrient-rich formula of activated charcoal, bakuchiol (similar to retinol), kaolin clay, and more will pull out deep-set dirt, oil, and grime from your face.
What’s more is that this mask, while intended for 10-minute applications, can also be used as an overnight spot treatment product. Additionally, you can use this mask two or three times per week, making it easier to manage your current skin condition.
Lastly, the 3 oz. container the perfect travel companion to keep your skin looking great when not at home.
Learn more about Beast in our brand review.
Key Facts
- Compatible Skin Types: All
- Mask Type: Wash Off
- Size: 3 oz.
What customers are saying: People are loving this facial mask for its pleasant smell, effective pore-cleansing, and leaving skin feeling smooth and refreshed. Some customers think it is pricey but still consider it a great product.
Pros
- Draws out dirt, oil, and grime
- Can be used as an overnight spot treatment
- Easy to use
Cons
- The 3 oz. container might not last as long as some other masks
For Beards: Cardon Bamboo Charcoal Sheet Mask + Beard Oil
Who would have thought that applying cactus to your skin would feel so good? We sure didn’t, that was until we tested out Cardon’s soothing face mask.
Packed with Centella Asiatica, bamboo charcoal, niacinamide (3%), cactus extract, glycerin, and more, expect a slick and smooth finish to the texture of your skin in just 15 minutes. As a result, not only will your skin look healthier and more youthful, but it will also have reduced redness and inflammation.
But what makes Cardon so cool is that they made a mask for men with facial hair. The two-step mask includes beard oil and a specially cut mask to avoid getting in the way of your facial hair. This unique design is fundamentally different from other masks as it doesn’t ignore the skin underneath your beard.
Founded in 2019 and with deep ties to the South Korean skincare industry, Cardon is a brand you should strongly consider working into your skincare regimen.
For Men Who Shave: Cardon also makes a full-face mask for complete coverage.
Key Facts
- Compatible Skin Types: All
- Mask Type: Sheet + Beard Oil
- Size: 4 Pack
What customers are saying: Customers enjoy the facial masks’ ability to make their skin feel smooth and refreshed. They also like the variety, with masks for both clean-shaven and bearded men. The masks are easy to use, hydrating, and are considered a great gift idea.
Pros
- Soothes and reduces inflammation
- Unique design doesn’t ignore the skin under your beard
- Slick and smooth finish
Cons
- Quite pricey for a 4-pack
Budget-Friendly: Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay
If you want a simple, no-nonsense clay mask, the Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay is best-in-class. Relying on just one ingredient, Natural Calcium Bentonite Clay, it gets the job done when it comes to removing dirt and oil nestled deep in your pores.
For value, the Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay is an outlier. The 1 lb. container rings up at only $0.93 per ounce. For comparison, the next closest wash-off mask we reviewed, the tea tree mask by The Body Shop, costs $4.42 per ounce – a net savings of $3.49.
It’s easy to see why this mask has over 60,000 reviews – it’s cheap, works well, and did we mention it’s made in the USA too? What more could you ask for?
Key Facts
- Compatible Skin Types: All
- Mask Type: Wash Off
- Size: 16 oz.
What customers are saying: Customers rave about the effectiveness of this facial mask on sensitive skin, reducing enlarged pores, and improving skin’s overall appearance. However, some found it messy and not suitable for extremely sensitive skin.
Pros
- Works well for any budget
- Simple and effective
- Made in the USA
Cons
- The clay can be drying for some skin types
- Can be messy to use
Shrinks Pore Appearance: Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Minimizing Cleansing Clay Mask
When it comes to men’s skincare, Kiehl’s is always a winner. They make effective and simple products that get the job done.
If you need to manage oversized pores, particularly on the nose area, you should consider giving this cleansing mask a try. This wash-off clay-based mask only requires a short ten-minute application. After a single-use, expect your pores and blackheads to be noticeably smaller.
The formula is packed full of naturally derived ingredients including kaolin clay, aloe vera, bentonite clay, oat kernel flour, corn starch, and more.
While the studies don’t appear to be independently verified, Kiehl’s has stated that this mask will reduce the visibility of pores and blackheads by an impressive 37.3%. Additionally, a two-hour instrumental test found that this mask helped reduce oil production by 46% – perfect if you have naturally oily skin.
Key Facts
- Compatible Skin Types: Normal, Oily
- Mask Type: Wash Off
- Size: 4.2 oz.
What customers are saying: This facial mask receives high praise for its effectiveness in cleansing pores, improving skin texture, and reducing the appearance of pores, with many noting its value for money and freshness. Some mentioned a smaller size being too expensive.
Pros
- Kiehl’s is a trusted brand
- Pore minimizing
- Reduces oil production
Cons
- Can be drying for some skin types
- Slightly more expensive than some other options
Anti-Aging: Wolf Project Hydrating Face Mask Sheet
If you’re in your 30s or later and are looking to fight fine lines and wrinkles, then you should put the Wolf Project Hydrating Face Mask Sheet at the top of your consideration list.
This anti-aging-focused face mask is full of ingredients that work on hydrating your dry skin for instant youthful-looking results. The 15 minute application time is a quick and easy way to look your very best before a date, job interview, or big meeting.
Wolf Project can achieve such effective results thanks to the reliance on hyaluronic acid, a substance that can hold 1,000 times its weight in water.
You should know that if you have facial hair, you’ll need to fold the mask up or simply cut it with some shears so it doesn’t get in the way.
Lastly, for a sheet mask, the value is unmatched. When opting for a single purchase rather than a subscription, each sheet costs only $5 each, perfect if you are on a restricted budget.
Key Facts
- Compatible Skin Types: All, Dry Skin
- Mask Type: Sheet
- Size: 5 Pack
What customers are saying: Customers mention that the facial masks are moisturizing, non-greasy, and comfortable to wear, but some dislike the smell. Many have noticed improvements and a glowing complexion after using the masks, however, one customer had difficulty with cancelling their subscription.
Pros
- Hydrates dry skin
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Very budget friendly
Cons
- Can be difficult to apply if you have facial hair
- Some may find the scent overpowering
Charcoal Base: Buttah Charcoal Detox Mask
Whether you have an uneven complexion or are looking to remove impurities from your skin, then you should consider a mask with a charcoal powder and clay base. Charcoal and clay work hard together to provide a gentle exfoliation and deep cleanse to the skin that will leave you feeling like you just walked out of a luxury spa.
But the treatment doesn’t end with the cleansing agents. Buttah smartly added a rich blend of natural ingredients that will restore moisture and lessen fine lines. In the mask, you’ll find several natural ingredients, including argan oil, shea butter, avocado oil, and aloe vera, to just name a few.
Designed for all skin types and melanin skin tones, it can work for anyone.
Key Facts
- Compatible Skin Types: All Types
- Mask Type: Wash Off
- Size: 1 oz.
What customers are saying: Some customers feel the facial mask is too small and overpriced, while others love its effectiveness and smooth results despite its size.
Pros
- Gently exfoliates and deeply cleanses skin
- Restores moisture
- Suitable for all skin types and melanin skin tones
Cons
- Activated charcoal can be a bit messy
Luxury Pick: 111SKIN Sub-Zero De-Puffing Energy Facial Masks
For the men in the C-Suite who demand quality and performance from their grooming products, then consider the face masks by 111SKIN.
Designed for the guys that play hard but work even harder, the 111SKIN face masks can decrease puffiness and dullness, so you look you’re very best for those oh-so-long boardroom meetings.
Designed by the well-respected Dr. Y Alexandrides MD (learn more), and made in the skincare capital of the world, South Korea, the masks contain a rich blend of proven ingredients that deliver the “highest levels of efficacy.”
The sheet masks make for an easy-on, easy-off application – perfect when you are running short on time.
Key Facts
- Compatible Skin Types: All Types
- Mask Type: Sheet
- Size: 5 Pack
What customers are saying: The facial mask is effective at tightening and brightening the skin but can be challenging to apply due to its slippery two-part design. Some customers faced issues with the mask staying in place, while others enjoyed the cooling and refreshing effect it provided.
Pros
- Decreases puffiness and dullness
- Made by a well-respected doctor
- Easy to apply and remove
Cons
- On the pricier side
For Acne: The Body Shop Tea Tree Skin Clearing Clay Mask
Pros
Natural antioxidant properties
Clears complexion
Leaves skin with a matte finish
Cons
Not suitable for dry or sensitive skin types
As we recently found when reviewing their award-winning shaving cream, The Body Shop makes products that your skin will be sure to love.
If you have naturally oily skin or are looking to resolve blemishes, then the natural antioxidant properties found in this tea tree clay mask will help. In addition, after applying the mask for only 10 to 15 minutes, you’ll lift all the dirt, oil, and other pollutants from the surface of your skin.
The final result will be a matte finish to your skin paired with a clear complexion.
Key Facts
- Compatible Skin Types: Oily & Blemished Skin
- Mask Type: Wash Off
- Size: 3.9 oz
What customers are saying: Many enjoy the long-lasting and effective results of this facial mask, particularly for acne-prone skin, while some experience irritation on sensitive skin or dissatisfaction with the product’s consistency.
Pros
- Natural antioxidant properties
- Clears complexion
- Leaves skin with a matte finish
Cons
- Not suitable for dry or sensitive skin types
For Radiant Looking Skin: Kiehl’s Turmeric & Cranberry Seed Energizing Radiance Mask
Whether it’s due to continuous late nights working or going out with friends, lack of sleep and increased stress can leave your skin looking dull and tired.
To reverse that beaten-down look, applying the Kiehl’s Turmeric & Cranberry Seed mask can give your skin an instantly smoother and brighter appearance. To achieve this, the cranberry works hard to smooth your skin, while the turmeric removes toxins to renew and brighten the appearance.
Sure, you may still feel a bit tired on the inside, but after applying this mask for only 10 minutes and giving your mind a short break from the daily rigors, you’ll look and feel instantly better.
Lastly, the container is travel-friendly – making it a perfect addition to your toiletry bag for those transcontinental flights.
Key Facts
- Compatible Skin Types: All Types, Sensitive Skin
- Mask Type: Wash Off
- Size: 3.4 oz
What customers are saying: Some customers experienced issues with the product being dried out or used, while others found the face mask to effectively brighten and improve their appearance.
Pros
- Gives skin an instantly smoother and brighter appearance
- Removes toxins
- Travel-friendly packaging
Cons
- Not suitable for men with dry skin
Mattifies: Oars and Alps Oil Attacker Face Mask
Founded in 2015, Oars and Alps make well-performing and effective skincare products for men. If you are looking to manage oily skin, then consider this oil attacking face mask.
Relying on a rich blend of three different clays, including kaolin, bentonite, and glacial oceanic sea silt, oil resting deep in your pores will be easily lifted – resulting in a matte finish to the skin. The mask will also help to tone complexion and remove blemishes.
Key Facts
- Compatible Skin Types: All Types
- Mask Type: Wash Off
- Size: 2 oz.
What customers are saying: Customers find the facial mask effective for guys with oily skin, leaving it feeling clean, smooth, and refreshed. They also mention the delightful blueberry scent and the product being easy to use.
Pros
- Rich blend of three different clays
- Removes blemishes
- Leaves skin with a matte finish
Cons
- Can be drying for some skin types
Natural & Organic: Brickell Purifying Charcoal Face Mask for Men
Brickell hits all the right notes when it comes to making natural and organic skincare products for men. Leaning on a rich blend of activated charcoal, aloe vera, kaolin clay, kelp powder, grapeseed oil, and more, you can expect unblemished and healthy-looking results.
Specially designed to tone skin, fight free radicals, and provide a firm and youthful appearance; this mask by Brickell is versatile and used by men of all ages.
Application is easy and requires only 15 minutes once or two times a week. Consider pairing this with their award-winning face wash and exfoliator.
Key Facts
- Compatible Skin Types: All
- Mask Type: Wash Off
- Size: 4 oz
What customers are saying: Many customers praise this facial mask for its effectiveness in improving skin tone, reducing pores, and leaving skin feeling smooth and revitalized. However, some found it to be too harsh for sensitive skin, and others were disappointed with the small size of the jar.
Pros
- Provides a firm and youthful appearance
- Tones skin
- Fights free radicals
Cons
- Kind of pricey given the size
Fast Acting: Malin+Goetz Detox Face Mask
If you have blemishes and fine lines, we think you’ll love the results when using the Malin+Goetz Detox Face Mask. In as little as 5 minutes, this foamy gel mask is perfect if you don’t want to spend a whole lot of time on your skincare routine.
Packed full of vitamins and hydration-rich ingredients, you will see a noticeable improvement in how your skin looks and feels.
Another cool thing about this mask is that it can also be used as a shaving cream substitute, saving you time and money.
Key Facts
- Compatible Skin Types: All Types
- Mask Type: Wash Off
- Size: 4 oz.
What customers are saying: Customers report that this facial mask leaves their skin feeling revitalized, and they love the bubbling sensation. However, some mentioned the price being an issue and others experienced irritation on sensitive skin.
Pros
- Fast-acting – results in as little as 5 minutes
- Packed full of vitamins and hydration-rich ingredients
- Can also be used as a shaving cream substitute
Cons
- Can be hard to find in stores
4 Quick Tips for Buying a Face Mask
Here are a few features to be mindful of when making your decision:
1. Mask Type
You can apply face masks in one of the following ways:
- Sheet: This is a thin cloth sheet that has been soaked in several hydration and skin healing ingredients. Sheets are single-use and convenient, especially while traveling. However, while sheets have micro-perforations, they may not fit precisely on your face nor cover all the area of your skin. In addition, an adjustment may be difficult once applied.
- Wash Off: These can come in various forms, with the most common being clay, charcoal, mud, creams, and more. They take longer to apply and can be messy if you haven’t adequately planned ahead of time. Price varies significantly from one brand to another.
Question: Do you have a beard?
If you have a thick stubble or beard, then you’ll either need to go with a wash-off mask or a sheet that has been specially designed for facial hair growth.
2. Skin Type
Face masks vary in their skin compatibility. For example, some are for dry skin only, while others are for all skin types. Consider only masks that compliment your skin. Not doing so may lead to clogged pores or poor results.
Should you have sensitive skin, fragrant-free face masks should be used as they will be less likely to irritate. Always patch test if possible before applying to your face.
3. Application Duration
Some masks should be worn for 15 minutes, where others are for overnight application. Take a moment to think about your lifestyle, habits, and ultimately, when you plan on wearing the mask to ensure that it will seamlessly work into your grooming routine.
4. Active Ingredients
Masks vary in their composition. However, most companies rely on the following as a base ingredient: kaolin clay, cactus, bentonite clay, aloe vera, avocado, and more. You’ll find that many of these ingredients are designed to soothe and moisturize the skin while also unclogging pores, removing dead skin, and more. As you research, don’t get hung up on getting that one ingredient. Remember, your skin is unique to you, and thus how the face mask performs will vary.