Clay masks are popular skincare products that offer a range of benefits for the skin. They are typically formulated with different types of clay combined with other ingredients to target specific skin concerns. This list of the best clay masks, all made in the USA, will help you find the perfect brands for your skincare routine.
The Best Clay Masks, All American Made
Clay masks have been used for centuries as a natural skincare remedy. They are typically made from various types of clay, each with its own unique properties and benefits for the skin. Let's explore the common types and benefits of clays that can be found in the facial masks that are included in this list.
I have included the health and skin benefits of each clay, as well as their specific benefits for acne, to help you choose the best clay mask (or masks) that is suited for your skin type.
Always remember that everyone's skin type is different, so individual results may vary. It's always a good idea to do a patch test before applying a clay mask to your entire face, especially if you have sensitive skin. If you have severe or persistent acne, it's recommended to consult with a dermatologist for personalized advice and treatment options.
Types of Clay Found in Clay Masks and the Skincare Benefits of Each Type
- Bentonite Clay: Bentonite clay is a highly absorbent clay that comes from volcanic ash. It has excellent detoxifying properties, that help to draw out impurities and excess oil from the skin. Bentonite clay is particularly beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin, as it can help unclog pores and reduce the appearance of blemishes.
The largest deposits of bentonite clay in the United States are found in the “Bentonite Triangle” which includes parts of Wyoming, Montana, and South Dakota. It is actually named after Fort Benton, Wyoming where it forms in large amounts. Bentonite clay can also be sourced in Colorado, Texas, and Utah.
Bentonite is a broader term that encompasses a lot of clays, including some of the other clays listed below. - French Green Clay: French green clay, also known as Illite clay, is rich in minerals and has excellent absorbent properties. It can help remove toxins, excess oil, and impurities from the skin, making it suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. French green clay also stimulates blood circulation and provides a toning effect on the skin, helping to improve the appearance of acne scars.
Montmorillonite clay is a type of French Green Clay which is also a bentonite green clay. Monmorllonite clay has the same properties as other bentonite clays and is sourced in the USA from the Mojave Desert and Death Valley. Monmorillonite clay is named after a village in France where it was originally discovered. - Kaolin Clay: Kaolin clay is a gentle and mild clay that is suitable for all skin types. It helps to cleanse and exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and impurities. Kaolin clay is known for its soothing properties, making it beneficial for sensitive and irritated skin. While it may not directly target acne, its gentle nature can help calm and balance the skin, promoting a clearer complexion.
Kaolin Clay can be sourced in the USA in Georgia, South Carolina, and Florida. - Rhassoul Clay: Rhassoul clay, originating from Morocco, is a mineral-rich clay that has been used for centuries in skincare. It has natural exfoliating properties and helps remove dead skin cells, excess oil, and impurities. Rhassoul clay is known to improve skin texture and promote a more balanced complexion, making it beneficial for acne-prone skin.
- Sea Clay: Sea clay, also known as marine clay, oceanic clay, or sea mud, is typically sourced from areas with marine or oceanic deposits. It is harvested from the seabed or coastal regions known for their mineral-rich sediments. The specific locations from which sea clay is sourced can vary depending on the brand or supplier. The Sea Clay found in products in this list includes Dead Sea Clay and Pacific Ocean Clay which is described in more detail below.
Dead Sea: Dead Sea clay, as the name suggests, is sourced from the Dead Sea region. It is highly mineralized, containing a unique blend of minerals such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium. Dead Sea clay helps to detoxify the skin, absorb excess oil, and unclog pores. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for reducing redness and soothing acne-prone skin. The minerals present in Dead Sea clay can improve skin hydration and promote a more youthful appearance.
Pacific Ocean: Sea clay can also be sourced from various parts of the Pacific Ocean, including coastal areas of California.
Don't miss our source list of American made beauty products.
Do Clay Masks Help With Acne?
When it comes to acne, clay masks offer several benefits. First, clay masks help absorb excess oil from the skin, reducing the occurrence of clogged pores and breakouts. They also have a gentle exfoliating effect, removing dead skin cells that can contribute to acne formation. Additionally, clay masks can help reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin, which is particularly beneficial for inflamed acne. By using clay masks regularly, you can help improve the overall clarity and condition of your skin.
Any of the clay masks in this list will make a good addition to your home facial routine. Each of the masks delivers all of the key benefits of a clay mask. If your skin goes through phases like mine, you might find more than one product that suits your skincare needs.
Best Clay Masks for Skin Detox, All American Made
Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay
Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay is 100% natural calcium Bentonite (green) clay sourced from Death Valley, California. The clay is sun dried for up to six months in temperatures up to 134 degrees. No fragrances are added.
Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay deep cleans pores, removing impurities and dirt. The clay can be mixed with apple cider vinegar or water. It can be used on the face or anywhere on the body where there are skin ailments like rashes or bug bites.
Cocokind Sea Kale Clay Mask
Cocokind Sea Kale Clay Mask is a creamy mask that gently exfoliates and soothes, and purifies. The active ingredients include blue sea kale extract, cucumber sea powder, and glacial oceanic clay. These ingredients together create a clay mask that removes excess oils, reduces the appearance of pores, and improves texture.
FarmHouse Fresh® Splendid Dirt®
FarmHouse Fresh® Splendid Dirt® mask is a nutrient filled mask formulated to targeted to deep clean pores, temporarily shrink their size, and even skin tones. It is ideal for acne and blemish prone skin, oily skin and large pores. The active ingredients are pumpkin puree, yogurt, and Bentonite clays.
Splendid Dirt® is nut free, gluten free, paraben free, sulfate free, and cruelty free.
J & L Naturals Face Masks
J & L Naturals Face Masks are formulated to target specific skin concerns. They are all packed with nourishing butters, clays, and exfoliants. There are 5 J & L Naturals face masks to choose from. Balance (kaolin clay, green clay, Rhassoul clay) is for oily & combination skin. Calm (kaolin clay, Bentonite clay, Dead Sea clay) is for sensitive & acne prone skin. Hydrate (kaolin clay, Bentonite clay, Dead Sea clay) is for normal to dry skin. Timeless (Kaolin clay, Bentonite clay, Rhassoul clay, Green clay) is for mature skin, Shine (Bentonite clay, kaolin clay) is for dull skin. The Face Mask powder is mixed with water before application.
All J & L Naturals Face Masks are made in the USA, are vegan, cruelty free, and paraben free.
Leahlani Mermaid Mask
Leahlani Mermaid Mask is made in small batches from local Hawaiian ingredients like Hawaiian spirulina, Hawaiian raw honey and premium chlorella. The clay ingredients include illite clay and kaolin clay. Leahlani Mermaid Mask is to used to combat breakouts, purify pores boost circulation and strengthen skin.
Malibu Mud® Daily Detox Mineral Mud Mask
Malibu Mud® Daily Detox Mineral Mud Mask is designed to cleanse, detox, and rejuvinate for a smooth and even skin tone. Active ingredients include kaolin and bentonite clays, Dead Sea mud, aloe juice, and lavender oil.
Maibu Mud® can be used as an overnight mask, a 5 minute mask, or a spot treatment on blemishes or rough skin. It is made in Southern California in small batches from natural and organic ingredients and is vegan, cruelty free, non-GMO, gluten free and paraben free.
PUR Dirty Girl Detoxifying Face Mudd Masque with Pascalite Clay
PUR Dirty Girl Detoxifying Face Mudd Masque with Pascalite Clay* wipes out acne-causing bacteria and shrinks pimples. The gentle formula exfoliates dead skin and helps draw out pore-clogging impurities for a healthier-looking complexion.
*Pascalite clay is calcium Bentonite clay.
Tammy Fender Purifying Luculent Masque
The Tammy Fender Purifying Luculent Masque is a luxury clay mask and it is the most expensive product on our list. Tammy Fender skin care products natural, plant based, holistic luxury. The Purifying Luculent Masque is made in small batches. The illite clay base lifts away dead surface cells and deep cleans and softens the skin. Natural herbal ingredients, like Fo-ti and Great Burdock, detoxify and restore the complexion.
Tata Harper Purifying Mask
The Tata Harper Purifying Mask is an an award winning detox mask. It is made with high performance natural and organic ingredients, including white clay. The Purifying Mask is best for blocked pores, blackheads, and oily skin as it deep cleans pores to remove oil and leaves a healthy glow. Tata Harper skin care products are made in small batches in Vermont.
Waxelene Mud Masks
Waxelene offers three types of clay masks. The Clarifying Mud Mask contains Bentonite clay and Montmorilonite (French green clay). This mask is formulated to remove toxin and oil build up. The Beautifying Mud Mask contains Bentonite clay and Moroccan Lava clay (Rhassoul clay). Other active ingredients include vitamins A & E, and Turmeric- all which revitalize skin cells. The Detoxifying Mud Mask contains Bentonite clay, and Kaolinite (Dead Sea clay), as well as charcoal powder and vitamin that work together to deep clean pores and leave skin glowing. All of Waxelene's clay masks are in powder form and will need to be mixed with water. They are all cruelty free, organic, and hypoallergenic.
Waxelene's Detoxyfing Mud Mask and Beautifying Mud Mask are both favorites of mine. I have sensitive skin that has large pores and is prone to breakouts. They both leave my face soft and glowing. I even use the Detoxifying Mud Mask on skin irritations like bug bites for itch relief. - Tracey
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Moody Sisters Dead Sea Mud Mask is one I learned about right here when you featured their line. I really like that it is cruelty free. So many great ones to choose from.
Family-owned, vegan, highest quality ingredients
https://oseamalibu.com/collections/masks
What would you suggest for blackheads acne?
I had a sample of the Mario Badescu a while back & really liked it. I’ve always loved trying face masks.
I use a clay mask but not one from this list. I may check one of these out.
That Bliss mask is my current fave.
My daughter would love these!
My daughter and I use Mario Badescu products. I do like them very much and I am glad they are made in the USA also.
Claay masks are always nice! I have never used any of these brandss but have used a clay mask before and they really do make your skin feel better and softer, I like how these are made in America!