Having oily skin year round can be quite a conundrum. We're fortunate that our skin produces sebum to protect itself, but on the other hand, that means we’re saturated in oil. Applying one of the best peel-off face masks for oily skin can balance sebum production whilst protecting us from breakouts and clogged pores. The tricky thing about peel-off masks, though, is finding one that absorbs excess oil and still leaves skin feeling hydrated. I’ve lived through the irony of innocently applying a mask to absorb extra oil and found myself peeling off part of my face along with it. Clearly, not all formulas are created equal, so it’s super important to find one that won’t leave your skin irritated and dehydrated.
Peel-off masks are often a mixture between a gel and a cream that solidifies after you apply it. Once you’ve waited the allotted time (each product is different), you’ll be peeling away impurities, extra oil, and bacteria from your skin. If you have a super oily complexion, you might think a peel-off mask that dries your skin out is a good thing — but remember, the oil produced by our sebum glands is how our skin keeps itself nourished and protected. Often, we produce extra oil when our skin is feeling defensive, and dryness can definitely trigger that. A great peel-off mask should leave your skin feeling hydrated and smooth afterwards.
The good thing is you don’t have to sacrifice your skin by testing out one of the best peel-off masks. The ones below will balance oil production and keep breakouts at bay, while still leaving your complexion moisturized.
1A Soothing Peel-Off Mask With Aloe Vera
Luckyfine Aloe Vera Peel-Off Face Mask, $13, Amazon
You don’t need to make your skin dry AF to control oil; this aloe-based peel-off mask is an excellent way to unclog pores, remove blackheads, and maintain a healthy level of sebum production. Reviewers report it to be a pleasing mild mask that can actually be used a few times a week because of its gentle formula. This is definitely going to be an amazing addition to the routine of anyone who's looking to avoid harsh solutions for mild skin issues. Fans report this aloe mask is great for controlling oil in their T-zone and is wonderful for sensitive skin.
2A Revitalizing Peel-Off Mask With Grapeseed
Queen Helene Original Formula Grape Seed Extract Peel-Off Mask, $6, Amazon
Rich in natural antioxidants, this is a peel-off mask that will totally revitalize oily skin. Its main ingredient, grapeseed, is rich in polyphenols which are powerful antioxidants that help protect the skin and its elasticity. It also contains pomegranate to protect against environmental pollutants, as well as shea butter, which actually works to balance oil production. This is a great weekly mask for folks that typically use toners, astringents, or drying cleansers to control oil build-up. This mask is going to be particularly beneficial for mature skin and combination skin. It’s budget-friendly and super gentle, and Amazon reviewers have found that it helps fight acne without over-drying.
3An Organic Peel-Off Mask With Charcoal
Fiery Youth Original Peel-Off Black Mask, $13, Amazon
A wonderful option for people who are looking to soak up oil naturally, this charcoal peel-off mask helps control sebum production without dehydrating the skin. It’s formulated with bamboo charcoal, which is all the rage when it comes to lifting impurities. With natural absorbent properties, it’s able to rapidly remove extra oil without the harshness of synthetic ingredients. This mask also contains cleansing, soothing chamomile which makes it one of the more gentle charcoal peel-off masks on the market. Plus, it includes a burst of antioxidants from green tea to repair and protect the skin. As an added bonus, it comes with a convenient brush for seamless application.
4A Hydrating Peel-Off Mask With Blue Agave
Pur Minerals Blue Agave Energizing Peel-Off Mask, $26, Amazon
This cruelty-free peel-off mask is an excellent way to combat excess sebum production. It’s made with delicious ingredients that repair irritated skin and control oil, and even stimulates the skin’s metabolism, leaving it feeling hydrated and refreshed. It contains agave nectar, which has anecdotal evidence of relieving acne-prone skin, and is also enriched with ginseng, so don’t be surprised if it feels like heaven when you’re experiencing hormonal breakouts. This mask has a cooling sensation and uplifting scent that's totally revitalizing. Devout customers with acne-prone, sensitive skin are absolutely loving the gentle, refreshing experience it offers.
5A Blemish Fighting Peel-Off Mask With Almond And Cucumber
Himalaya Almond & Cucumber Peel-Off Mask, $7, Amazon
Oily skin often produces breakouts and clogged pores, but luckily, this almond cucumber peel-off mask can help treat the unfortunate side effects of excess oil. It’s formulated with lovely ingredients like pineapple, which has Vitamins B and C to help sooth sagging skin, cucumber, which prevents overproduction of nitric oxides that cause inflammation and oil build-up, almond oil, to keep the skin nourished, and gooseberries, which have pore-tightening properties. All these ingredients equal one hearty peel-off mask that’s super nourishing and won't leave skin dried out.
6A Balancing Peel-Off Mask With Turmeric And Berries
Down To Earth The Mask, $45, Amazon
This balancing peel-off mask is packed with nourishing antioxidants and sebum-controlling ingredients. It’s amazing for oily skin that’s prone to breakouts because it contains turmeric, a lifesaver for my own oily complexion. Turmeric contains a powerful anti-inflammatory called curcumin that reduces painful inflammation, and it also helps erase acne scars and balance oil production. This mask also includes delicious berries like acai, goji, and blackberry to plant antioxidants directly on your face. Loyal Amazon reviewers report it handled oil and dirt like a true warrior, and even those with sensitive complexions love how soft it leaves their skin.
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