2025's Top 5 Facial Masks for Brighter, Younger-Looking Skin
Updated 07/16/2025Here's what you need to know when picking a facial mask that actually works.
When our skincare routine needs an extra boost, facial masks have always been a go-to solution. But with all the noise and big claims on the internet, how do you know which facial mask is right for you and your skin?
This facial mask guide summarizes all the information you need to make an informed decision. Plus, we’ll also share our 5 top picks of the best facial masks on the market.
A Quality Facial Mask can:
Exfoliate dead skin and remove impuritiesSupport a firmer, less wrinkled appearance
Help the skin attract and hold in more water
Minimize the look of pores and redness
Promote a bright, smooth, even-toned complexion
Brighten and enhance the skin’s natural radiance
However, not all facial masks are created equal. And unless you know what to look for, you could end up with a mask that doesn't deliver results, or even harms your skin.
The first question to consider is: Which type of mask is right for your needs?
The 3 Main Types of Facial Mask
Clay masks are a great choice for people who want to reduce the look of wrinkles or pores. However, bentonite clay, the most common type, can sometimes dry out skin. Instead, look for clay masks that use kaolin clay, the hydrating clay often found in high-end spa treatments to provide that youthful glow.Peel-off masks are masks that dry on your skin so that you can peel them off. The peel-off aspect is great for exfoliation. But some people find that peel-off masks peel off more than they’d like, stripping their skin’s moisture barrier and causing mild to moderate irritation.
Sheet masks have been trending as a fun, refreshing way to hydrate your skin. However, many experts agree that this unique delivery method doesn’t add any special skin benefits. And, since you only get one use out of each mask, sheet masks give you the least bang for your buck.
Regardless of which type of mask you choose, your results will depend on the mask's ingredients.
Always look for ingredients that are backed by scientific studies because that's the only way to be sure they will deliver the desired benefits.
Science-Backed Ingredients to Look For
Fruit EnzymesEnzymes offer gentle exfoliation, without irritating the skin. So, when the mask is removed, dead cells and other debris are gently removed along with it.
Hyaluronic AcidHyaluronic acid attracts moisture, helping the skin stay hydrated even after the mask has been removed.
Vitamin CDue to its unique antioxidant properties, this key skincare vitamin supports a brighter, smoother look.
Ingredients To Avoid
- Synthetic Dyes & Fragrances
Synthetic dyes and fragrances can irritate your skin, clog pores, and cause acne. They can also strip your skin of important nutrients and oils.
- Parabens
Parabens are synthetic preservatives that can affect hormone levels and potentially cause skin damage when exposed to sunlight.
- Petroleum
Petroleum-based products can't be metabolized and also create an invisible film on the surface that clogs pores and traps dirt and oil under the skin.
3 Must-Haves For a Facial Mask
- Transparent List of Ingredients
Some skincare brands fail to list all of their ingredients, which means you might be using a product with potentially harmful chemicals, such as sulfates, parabens, heavy mineral oils, and petroleum.
- Long-Term Results
While most facial masks offer an instant boost, not all of them work to improve the skin's appearance over time. For lasting results, look for a mask that contains clinically studied ingredients.
- Money-Back Guarantee
Look for a strong, risk-free guarantee that the company stands behind. This shows that it believes in the products it sells
What Not to do When Choosing A Facial Mask:
- Forget The Research
Not all facial masks are the same. Brands use different formulas, and some sneak in additives, so check that they contain the ingredients listed above.
- Prioritize Price Over Quality
We found that the generic brands tended to fall short in potency. Focus on quality ingredients to avoid compromising your skin.
The Results Are In...
We took all of these factors into account, and after reviewing 91 facial masks, we found the best on the market.
Top Picks are updated monthly based on testing and analyses:
Top Pick
Consumers Survey Recommended
- Kaolin Clay
- Fruit Enzymes
- Hyaluronic Acid
- Activated Vitamin C
- Made in the USA with imported ingredients
- Clean formula
- Cruelty-Free
- 60-Day Money-
Back Guarantee
#1: Tru Alchemy Mystic Mask
Tru Alchemy's Mystic Mask earned our #1 spot because it's a clean kaolin clay formula complete with additional, research-backed ingredients we look for.
Mystic Mask contains exfoliating enzymes from raspberry, lemon, orange, and cucumber. Tru Alchemy also uses an activated form of vitamin C that delivers higher potency than most generic versions.
In addition, the formula contains multi-molecular hyaluronic acid, which has been shown to penetrate deeper into the skin. There's also niacinamide, antioxidants, and amino acids — which all support bright, firm-looking skin.
Mystic Mask is free of artificial fragrances and dyes, parabens, sulfates, petroleum, and other harsh chemicals.
Finally, Tru Alchemy offers a 60-Day Money Back Guarantee. We feel that 60 days gives customers enough time to decide if the product is right for them.
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LIMITED OFFER DISCOUNT FROM TRU ALCHEMY
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#2: Youth To The People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Mask
Youth To The People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Mask ranks 2nd in our list of best facial masks.
We were pleased to see that this wash-off mask also contains science-backed ingredients we look for: vitamin C, fruit enzymes, and hyaluronic acid.
However, some customers complained that they didn’t like the texture of this mask. Perhaps that's because Youth To The People used a thin water base instead of a clay base.
If you're worried about the texture issue, the good news is that Youth To The People offers a money-back guarantee. The bad news is they only give customers 30 days to get their money back. So, if you choose this mask, make sure you try it right away.
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#3: Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial™
Drunk Elephant's T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial™ came in 3rd because it features both hydrating hyaluronic acid and exfoliating fruit enzymes.
However, note that these research-backed ingredients are pretty far down on the ingredient label. This indicates that the formula may only contain small amounts of these ingredients.
T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial™ also contains chemical exfoliants such as salicylic acid. These potent chemicals are able to exfoliate deeper than enzymes. The problem is that they are more likely to irritate and strip the skin. That said, Drunk Elephant scores some points for admitting these side effects on their website.
Like Youth To The People, Drunk Elephant only offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. However, their website states that they may reject some refund requests, so this guarantee is not entirely risk-free.
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#4: TULA Skincare Claydate Detoxing & Toning Face Mask Stick
TULA Skincare's Claydate Detoxing & Toning Face Mask Stick earned a place on our list because it has lots of positive customer reviews.
Although the retractable stick applicator is not very hygienic, it does offer a convenient, mess-free experience.
We also like that this facial mask contains kaolin clay and probiotic bacteria to help skin stay balanced.
Unfortunately, it uses vinegar and witch hazel to exfoliate. The issue is that witch hazel contains tannins, which are known irritants. Vinegar is not ideal for sensitive skin either, especially when it's combined with other irritants.
That said, we were impressed to see that TULA Skincare is currently offering a 60-day guarantee, which gives customers plenty of time to make up their mind.
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#5: Tata Harper Resurfacing Mask
Tata Harper’s Resurfacing Mask contains none of the research-backed ingredients we look for. But its clean, naturally derived formula earned it a place on our list of best facial masks.
The formula is free from synthetic colors and fragrances.
And it is full of naturally derived plant extracts like beets and alfalfa. However, most of these vegetable extracts have not been clinically studied on the skin. So, there’s nothing to definitively suggest they would have an effect when used topically.
On the plus side, we did notice this formula contains kaolin clay, probiotics, and antioxidants.
Tata Harper offers a 30-day return policy. But we were disappointed to see they only allow returns if your jar is still at least half full. We believe this restrictive return policy doesn’t allow customers to give the mask a fair trial.
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P.S. While Tru Alchemy has the best facial mask we've found, we would still love to hear about any others you've tried. If you have had a great experience of your own, please send me an email to Beverly@ConsumersSurvey.org with the details.
Sincerely,
Beverly Gratson,
Senior Health Editor
What We Do
ConsumersSurvey uses a unique three-step approach to reviewing the most popular products in the online marketplace
1. Research First we conduct in-house research with a highly qualified editorial team comprised of individuals who specialize in various fields.
2. SurveyWe survey our readers who have tried the product over time in order to learn from their experiences.
3. OpinionWe monitor public opinion in the world’s most popular marketplaces, from Amazon and eBay, to Bizrate and Pricegrabber.
As a consumer herself, Beverly is extremely dedicated to gathering and collecting reports and information and always on the lookout for highly-rated supplements. She's especially passionate about educating consumers in making wise decisions when it comes to purchasing health products.