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9 Peel-Off Face Masks That Are Kind To Skin
From pore cleansers to deep hydrators.
When a slew of dubiously produced, skin-savaging peel-off masks crept onto the Insta-circuit a couple of years ago, we were horrified and intrigued in equal measure. Surely those liquid-tar masks can't actually be good for our skin?
Turns out, no they were not. But don't let those rogue skin-ravagers turn you away from peel-off masks entirely, because there are some efficacious formulas out there which will clear pores of excess oil and grime while leaving your skin barrier firmly intact.
If deep-cleansing is your game, opt for one containing a high level of clay or charcoal. They'll act like a sponge, soaking up anything your skin doesn't need (and leave the oils it does intact). For brightening, discover innovative mix-it-yourself algae masks, which infuse skin with serious moisture and leave behind a dewy sheen.
Here, see the ELLE verdict on the best peel-off face masks to bag in time for that Sunday-night facial.
Pixi T-Zone Peel-Off Mask – £18
Pixi's sensibly priced peel off mask is a stellar pore-purifier. Smooth it over your T-zone or any other oily areas, and let the unique green superfood blend (including avocado, cucumber, aloe, and green tea) decongest neglected skin.
Shiseido Waso Peel Off Mask – £31
Shiseido's cute new skincare line brings you this red shiso-infused peel off mask. It removes pollutants, clears pores, and sloughs off dead skin cells for an instantly brighter complexion.
Dr. Dennis Gross Hyaluronic Marine Modelling Mask – £49
Clay and charcoal-based masks are not always wise to use before a big event, as they draw toxins and blemishes to the surface of the skin. Dr. Dennis Gross' salon-standard mask, however, is a perfect pre-party pick.
Blend the activating powder with the algae and hyaluronic complex to form a rubbery liquid: as it sets on the skin, it pushes the moisture-grabbing ingredients deep into thirsty cells. Trust us: your make-up will apply more smoothly than ever.
Ok K! SOS Detoxifying Peel-Off Clay Mask – £8
This kaolin clay-based mask is a great choice for anyone with congested pores and pesky blackheads. The witch hazel inside is an added irritation-calming bonus, while the pretty lavender hue means you're less likely to scare your flatmate.
Rodial Snake Mask – £68
This one packs a real punch in the skin-boosting stakes. a base of kaolin clay absorbs excess oil and grime, while liquorice extract brightens dark spots, and the brand's famous 'snake' peptide temporarily freezes fine lines and wrinkles.
Elizabeth Arden Prevage City Smart Double Action Peel Off Mask - £60
If you're a city dweller looking to pollution-proof your skin, this is a great product to start with. Not only does it lift deep-seated grime when peeled away, but it's packed with antioxidants that act like armour on the skin, so free radicals bounce right off. Pricey, but worth it.
Glamglow Gravitmud Firming Treatment – £44
Probably the jazziest peel-off mask around, this morphs into a selfie-worthy metallic sheen on contact with skin. But it's the after effects that has everyone raving about it: hyaluronic acid plumps away fine lines while red algae and liquorice extract firm and tone.
DR. JART+ Shake & Shot Rubber Hydro Mask – £8
We know, we know – this K-beauty creation sits firmly on the wrong side of kitsch. But put the terrifying packaging to the back of your mind, because the mega-hydrating mix-at-home mask inside is truly brilliant. Soothing vitamin B5 is combined with moisturising baobab plant extract to bring dry, dull skin back from the brink.
Omorovicza Deep Cleansing Mask - £62
A cocktail of skin-nourishing ingredients – think glycerin to soften and vitamin E to moisturise – makes this face mask a brilliant addition to any routine.
Paint it on with a clean, flat foundation brush to avoid transmitting any bacteria from your fingers into the product, and peel it off after ten minutes. Don't forget to rinse your face with lukewarm water to get rid of any residue.
Roberta Schroeder is the Senior Ecommerce Editor at Harper's Bazaar, ELLE and Esquire, overseeing shopping strategy and content across fashion, beauty, and travel. Roberta has reported on everything from market-leading skincare brands to the world’s most iconic fashion pieces, while also regularly updating a range of shopping guides, including LED masks, heritage cashmere brands and niche new dress brands to know.
Roberta has more than 15 years' experience in the luxury sector, spanning editorial consultancy, trend forecasting and journalism. Over the years, she has worked for global brands including Farfetch, Chanel, and Vogue.
When not testing beauty products, trialling trends and curating content that spotlights the very best in fashion and beauty, Roberta can usually be found trawling resale sites and vintage stores for a long-coveted designer find. Follow Roberta on Instagram at @roberta__schroeder
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