IMAGE: CORBIS IMAGES
I always mention how I generally have dry skin, but I’ve also talked about how I constantly suffer from gunk in my pores. Apart from making sure I use the right products, there are days when my skin feels it needs an extra boost to help it by removing impurities. Instead of extracting blackheads, I prefer to use on clay masks, or masks that help to remove dirt from deep within.
Such masks usually have a clay or mud base, but egg whites are also known to work as well. The masks have a creamy texture when applied, but dry to a very stiff layer after. Due to this process, these masks can absorb sebum and impurities from the skin. Think about it this way: A creamy mask enters your pores, and when it dries, it squeezes the skin around it ─ expunging the dirt in the process! On top of that, this “squeezing” action is said to be able to reduce the size of your pores.
I’ve personally managed to remove blackheads and mini pimples after using mud and clay masks ─ so I know for a fact that they work. For areas with more gunk, I prefer to apply a thicker layer, and when it’s fully dry (my face is so stiff and I can’t move it, dry), I wash my face with warm water to open up the pores and clear all out that gunk.
If you’re looking to detoxify your pores the easy way, here are four clay masks I love.
Origins Clear Improvement
Charcoal is known for its ability to absorb toxins (which is why you take charcoal pills when you have a tummy ache!). In the same way, Origins Clear Improvement mask uses active charcoal to draw out pore-clogging toxins stuck in your skin. But the mask does more than that. Using a combination of White China Clay and Yellow Sweet Clover to absorb environmental toxins and decongest your pores, Origins says this mask dissolves and clears the skin of natural and environmental impurities ─ giving you clearer and brighter skin.
I love this mask because it can be applied on damp skin. The brand advises users to open pores with a warm towel before applying a layer on, but if you’re lazy like me: take a hot shower and apply this mask right after. Your pores will be open and this mask will work its magic.
Dermalogica Skin Refining Masque
The simple packaging speaks for itself, Dermalogica’s Skin Refining Masque is said to hydrate your skin while refining your pores. Containing botanical ingredients such as Eijitsu Rose and Lentil Seed Extract, it hopes to downsize your pores while refining the skin’s texture. What I love about this mask is how it contains Chaulmoogra Oil and Magnolia Bark Extract, ingredients that are said to suppress bacteria and soothe inflammation.
Skinfood Egg White Pore Mask
I’ve raved about the budget beauty buy that Skinfood’s egg white pore strip is, likewise, the brand’s Egg White Pore Mask is a great pore unclogging option for the entire face. Egg white is rich in albumin, which the brand says is great for reducing pore size. This creamy mask sinks into your skin with ease, hoping to remove excess oil and sebum from deep within. This is also a very wallet-friendly version, so if you’re strapped for cash ─ Skinfood’s Egg White Pore Mask does its job without burning a hole in your pocket.
Bomb Cosmetics Rhassoul Mud Mask
Don’t be fooled by this mini tub. A relative newcomer in Singapore, Bomb Cosmetics is an independent company that prides itself on hand-making all their products. The silky texture of the mask makes it glide perfectly onto the skin, and the brand uses its expertise in scents to give your skin a treat of vanilla, citrus, and rose accents all at once (don’t worry if you’re sensitive to fragrance, this product only uses natural essential oils). What I love about the mask is how it dries extremely quickly, so it’s great for a quickie detox.
Bomb Cosmetics Rhassoul Mud Mask, $28.30, is available at Shea Orchard Central. For more information, visit www.shea.com.sg and follow the brand on Facebook.
Dermalogica Skin Refining Masque, $83, is available at AsterSpring Centres and selected Dermalogica-authorized skin treatment centres. For more information, follow the brand on Facebook.
Origins Clear Improvement, $50, is available at Origins counters in Isetan Scotts, Metro Paragon, Robinsons Raffles City, Orchard, and JEM, and Tangs VivoCity. For more information, visit www.origins.com.sg and follow the brand on Facebook.
Skinfood Egg White Pore Mask, $21.90 is available at all Skinfood stores. For more information, visit www.skinfood.sg and follow the brand on Facebook.