The 12 Best Face Masks for Making Skin Look Virtually Poreless

Pores: Everyone’s got ‘em, and there’s not much you can do about ‘em. Okay, so maybe we are oversimplifying slightly, but that’s the basic gist of it. We all have pores—tiny openings at the skin’s surface. And, contrary to what’s commonly said, there’s nothing you can do to change the *actual* size of your pores. How big they are is a matter of genetics, but what can change how big or small they look is essentially how much gunk is inside of them.

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Our best overall pick is Glamglow SUPERMUD Charcoal Instant Treatment Mask, which contains both exfoliating acids and purifying charcoal to suck gunk out of pores gently, yet effectively. For a more affordable option, consider Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay, a buzzy Amazon-fave that uses clay to zap acne and blemishes in the most natural, powerful way possible. 

Clogged pores appear larger (and, in the case of blackheads, often darker), while ones that are clear are less noticeable. So, cleaning them out is a good place to start if you’re looking for a way to minimize the appearance of prominent pores. (Not to mention that clogged pores can also lead to bacterial build-up and acne.) Enter the beauty of a good pore-clearing mask. While it may not necessarily be a magic eraser, a mask can help to de-gunk pores and make them look smaller in a matter of minutes.

We conducted hours of research on the best face masks for pores, evaluating each formula on key ingredients and targeted benefits. We looked at how well each mask exfoliates skin, reduces oil, and helps shrink the appearance of pores—all without irritating or drying out skin. We took into consideration a variety of skin concerns and types, as well as ease of application.

After considering dozens of formulas, we landed on these fan-favorites, guided by expert recommendations by a board-certified dermatologist. We also tried out a couple top-rated masks for pores, our testers taking note of noticeable results. Finally, each option on this list contains ingredients recommended by a board-certified dermatologist to help control oil production and clear pores of impurities and debris.

Ahead, find our favorite face masks for pores that can help them appear smaller, while clarifying skin.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:
GLAMGLOW SUPERMUD Clearing Treatment Mask at Amazon

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Best Budget:
Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay at Amazon

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Best for Oily Skin:
Kiehl’s Deep Pore Cleansing Mask at Sephora

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Best for Combination Skin:
Volition Beauty Detoxifying Silt Gelée Mask at Dermstore

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Best for Acne-Prone Skin:
Glytone Acne Treatment Mask at Amazon

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Best for Acne-Prone Skin, Runner-Up:
Lancer Skincare Clarifying Detox Mask at Nordstrom

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Best Drugstore:
Simple Pink Clay Face Mask at Giantfoodstores.com

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Best Drugstore, Runner-Up:
Bioré Warming Clay Charcoal Mask at Amazon

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Best Dual-Purpose:
Acne Free Kaolin Clay Detox Mask at Amazon

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Best Sheet Mask:
Dr. Jart+ Purifying Mud Mask at Sephora

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In This Article

Expand

• Our Picks

• Final Verdict

• What to Look For

• How We Researched

• Why Trust Review2Coupon

Best Overall:
GLAMGLOW SUPERMUD Instant Clearing Treatment Mask

4.7

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What We Like

• Completely clean formula

• Luxurious scent and feel 

• Great for all skin types

What We Don’t Like

• Expensive

If you want to treat yourself to a mask that gives off serious spa vibes, this is it. It relies on 100% natural ingredients, including kaolin clay, exfoliating fruit enzymes, and a laundry list of antioxidant-rich botanical and fruit extracts that also help to combat the damaging effects of free radicals caused by exposure to things such as pollution. It’s equal parts detoxifying and hydrating, meaning it’s great for all skin types. And, per the spa part of things, the lusciously creamy texture and (natural) fresh scent can’t be beat.

Benefits: Clears pores, combats free radicals | Active Ingredients: Kaolin clay | Skin Type: All | Size: 1.7 fl. oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Review2Coupon Clean: No

Final Verdict

You may not be able to change the size of the pores, but there are plenty of face masks out there you can use to help them look smaller. The Glamglow SUPERMUD Charcoal Instant Treatment Mask earns our vote for best overall, combining exfoliating acids and purifying charcoal. If f you prefer sheet masks, consider the Dr. Jart+ Pore Remedy Purifying Mud Mask, an effective, single-use option.