Finding the best face mask for your skin type can be majorly transformative. The perfect partner to your evening Netflix binge, there's nothing as relaxing as popping on a face mask, but with so many options - hydrating, brightening, deep-cleansing, plumping, blemish-busting - it can be overwhelming knowing where to start. To make things easier on your skin and your bank account, we've rounded up the face masks that we swear by for clear, glowing skin. From high-tech gels to detoxifying clays, rest assured there's a face mask for every skin type.
How we choose our top face masks
Whether they promise hydration, plumpness, oil-control or radiance, these are the masks that deliver the goods for each skin concern. What's more, your reviews play an important part too - when a face mask racks up all those five star reviews, we pay attention.
Meso-Mask
Best for: Mature skin
Inspired by mesotherapy - the non-surgical method of firming and rejuvenating skin - this isn’t your average brightening face mask. Featuring the brand’s cutting-edge anti-ageing complex, moisture-grabbing ingredients draw water into the skin, while Niacinamide dials up the glow. Apply a thick layer for 15-30 minutes, not forgetting the delicate skin on your neck - after first use expect a plumped-up complexion with reduced fine lines.
The hype: "Wow, this mask really does what it says. First use and my skin is glowing and feels plumper. I’m so pleased, I think I’m going without makeup today because I don't need it.” - Customer review
Nordic Hydra [LAHDE] Oxygen Recovery 72h Hydra Gel Mask
Best for: Dry and dehydrated skin
Granting 72 hours of hydration for thirsty cells, this cooling gel mask is like a tall drink of water. Like all Lumene treatments, it’s loaded with Pure Arctic Spring Water and organic Nordic Birch Sap to leave skin soft and plump in minutes. This one can be used in two ways; as a 10 minute rinse-off mask, or as an intensive overnight treatment, applying a thin layer to skin before bedtime. Whichever way you choose, it’ll leave skin insanely refreshed.
The hype: "My face feels so fresh after using this mask. It has a cooling effect and it does tingle a little, but for me it’s a sign of the mask working. The result is a smooth, moisturised, fresh face." - Customer review
Manuka Honey Mask
Best for: Dry, sensitive and blemish-prone skin Honey has a long history of healing - a traditional remedy of the New Zealand Maori people, Manuka Honey has natural antibacterial, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Smooth a generous layer over skin for 15 minutes to intensely hydrate, calm redness and decongest clogged pores. Thanks to the blend of Vanilla and Mandarin, this one brings the facial-worthy vibes to your bathroom - breathe in and bliss out. The hype: "I have fallen in love with the smell of this mask. It handles problem spots arising without drying out the skin, leaving it feeling hydrated!" - Carrie, customer review
Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Mask
Best for: Minimising pores
With its purifying ingredients list, this mask is a genuine miracle-worker - either as an all-over treatment or on specific problem areas. Infused with a rich array of nutrients straight from the South American forest, the Amazonian White Clay works wonders to draw out pore-clogging toxins from the skin. Along with soothing Oatmeal and Aloe Vera, expect soft, super-balanced skin with visibly smaller pores.
The hype: "You probably know what wonders a clay mask can do for acne-prone and combination skin, and this mask is truly no exception. Its powerful Amazonian white clay formula clears clogged pores, reduces surface oil production and visibly minimises the appearance of pores." - Allure
Peptide4 Plumping Pillow Facial
Best for: Thirsty skin
For a generous helping of hydration, it’s all about ELEMIS’ Peptide4 mask. If you’re battling a dry, dull or tight skin texture, then this rejuvenating mask should be your new nightly go-to. Drenching the skin in moisture, its heroic formula is clinically proven to plump and fight telltale signs of tired skin. Suitable for nightly use, leave on while you sleep and rinse off in the AM to reveal ultra-hydrated, radiant skin.
The hype: "Such a lovely texture and leaves my skin looking and feeling soft and dewy, great product!" - Evanthia, customer review
Activated Charcoal Face Mask
Best for: Price
Great for banishing blackheads on a budget, this Charcoal-infused face mask is a detox in a jar. Hero ingredient activated Charcoal is an impurity magnet, drawing out dirt and grime from the skin’s surface and maximising that ultra-cleansed, purified feeling. If that wasn’t enough, you’ve got Kaolin in the mix to soothe and soften, along with Bentonite to help absorb excess oil. After just 20 minutes, your skin’s left feeling refreshed and rebalanced - and all for less than a tenner.
The hype: "The texture is great, it dries quickly and really minimises my pores and makes my skin feel so soft. I'll never buy a different face mask again, especially as this one is amazing value for money!" - Beth, customer review