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Which Face Mask is Best for Black Skin?

Written by Elizabeth Kessler • Updated on: 11/02/23

The increased melanin production acts your skin’s natural protection against the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet rays but this does not mean that you would not need the help of skincare products.

Treating your skin problems can be a lot of work. With a plethora of facial products for African American skin in the market, choosing the best face mask for black skin is like finding a needle in a haystack. There is nothing more frustrating than trying out a product that ends up damaging your skin.

On this list are skincare products that are crafted to suit African American skin.

Which Face Mask is Best for Black Skin

12 Best Face Masks for Skin of Colour

1. Natrulo Turmeric Face Mask

Brightening is just one of the many benefits that you can get from this face mask. For centuries, many people around the world have relied on turmeric–a key ingredient of this product–for its healing properties.

When applied to the skin, turmeric can reduce the appearance of scars and inflammation, as well as fight off aging, even out the skin tone, and get rid of dead skin cells.

Meanwhile, the other equally powerful ingredients added to this face mask such as Bentonite clay and milk soften the skin, shrink the pores and draw out toxins such as bacteria and pollutants. This is especially helpful in preventing breakouts. On the other hand, honey powder gives the skin a youthful, radiant glow and helps in healing.

For those looking for an added protection for the African American skin, this turmeric mask has ingredients such as colloidal oats that improve dry, irritated skin. Then there’s aloe leaf to keep your skin hydrated, and cinnamon that helps your skin absorb all the other ingredients.

While this may be a little pricier than similar products, it can help you manage many skin problems. At the same time, it is easy to use.

Simply mix two teaspoons of hot water with one teaspoon of the turmeric powder and then apply the mixture on your face. You may also use other types of liquids, such as milk, yogurt, egg white, honey, or oil. Leave it on until dry and wash it off with warm water.

Pros

  • Brightening and healing effects on skin
  • Made with all-natural ingredients
  • You can see the results in a few months
  • Great for both men and women
  • Targets many skin problems

Cons

  • It leaves a temporary stain even on your skin
  • A little pricy compared to other brands

Although it stains my skin, it fades after a couple of minutes of washing. This is not a big deal if I’m not in a hurry. Overall, I highly recommend this face mask for dark skin as it targets many skin problems.

2. SHILLS Charcoal Mask for Men

One of the most affordable black men’s face care products, this SHILLS charcoal mask for men, might just be your best bet.

The product comes with a plastic applicator so users can apply the mask easily and reach every side of your face. You can even out the layer of the charcoal mask nicely without getting the substance on your hands. Plus, it is easy to peel off the mask once it is dry, especially when you apply a thick layer.

For this particular product, ‘activating’ charcoal is a process that turns the bamboo that is grown in the high mountains into ashes using high temperatures. In creating this mask, the ashes are injected into the product.

Activated charcoal can be used for medical purposes such as poison treatment. At the same time, your gorgeous dark skin can benefit from this potent ingredient found in the peel-off face mask. This impressive skincare product helps you bring out that healthy, rosy skin.

Known for its deep-cleaning, the substance removes blackheads and whiteheads and decreases the appearance of scars. Apart from that, it also helps prevent acne breakouts.

Pros

  • Comes with a plastic applicator
  • An affordable face mask for men
  • Activating charcoal for brightening your skin
  • Instant results that you can see and feel
  • Cleans the skin without making it dry

Cons

  • It takes 20 to 30 minutes to dry

My verdict: if you want to get a lot of bang for the buck, then this peel-off mask for men is something you should consider having as the product does the job perfectly.

3. Kiehl’s Turmeric & Cranberry Seed Face Mask

Next on this list is Khiel’s Turmeric & Cranberry Seed Energizing Radiance Masque. It helps you with your acne problems, and also gives you that ‘glow’ like you just had a facial session.

Fresh and invigorating, African American skin will benefit from this face mask. The cranberry seeds gently exfoliate the skin, while the antioxidant properties found in turmeric brighten the face.

Suitable for all skin types, the turmeric & cranberry seed masque is one of the skincare products for black skin that you can count on made by a company that has been around since 1851.

I am more inclined to trust customer-centric brands with a good track record of providing quality products. For instance, this company’s offer of free samplings allows first-time buyers to explore available options before making a purchase. It also gives me the impression that they are confident in what they make.

The best part of this masque is that you won’t have to worry about stains, unlike other beauty products with turmeric as one of their main ingredients. It has a subtle scent that does not linger after washing off.

It is recommended to use this face mask thrice a week. Just apply the product on a cleansed face and leave it on for 10 minutes. Then you can rinse it with warm water and massage your face in a circular motion to exfoliate. Do not forget to dry your face with a clean towel afterward.

Pros

  • No stain on your face after use
  • An instant glow after rinsing off the masque
  • Made by a trusted brand that offers generous samplings
  • Easy to apply

Cons

  • Not very budget-friendly
  • Take time to wash off

You may have to spend a little bit more, but this brightening masque will definitely brighten your day with the results.

4. Shea Moisture Clarifying Mud Mask

The African black soap is widely known for plenty of skincare benefits. Combined with Tea Tree Oil and Tamarind extracts, Shea Moisture Clarifying Mud Mask is good for your skin. In addition to that, the makers adhere to ethical guidelines such as no animal testing and investing their proceeds in women globally.

Authentic African Black Soaps are free of chemicals. It is used primarily to purify the skin, manage oil production, prevent breakouts, reduce scars, and make your beautiful black skin glow. The other ingredient found in this mud mask is Shea Butter, which keeps the skin moisturized and oil-free.

I also appreciate the brand’s transparency towards its customers, which adds to its credibility. They take a proactive approach in informing their customers by advising them to check the packaging for an accurate list of ingredients of products. On their website, customers can leave feedback or ask questions and the company makes sure to respond.

The direction on how to use this is pretty straightforward. Using your fingertips, spread a thin layer of mud, avoiding the eye area. Wait for 10 minutes and wipe it off with a damp face cloth. This beauty regimen can be done weekly or as needed. You can feel your skin smoother than it was as soon as you remove the mud mask.

Pros

  • Affordable ethically-made skincare product
  • Easy to apply
  • Free of harmful chemicals
  • Suitable for men and women and all skin types

Cons

  • Subtle earthy, clay smell

For smoother, oil-free skin, this mud face mask makes a great black face mask skin care product.

5. JJ Natural Turmeric Clay Mask

Apart from getting rid of acne, this clay face mask is also effective in reducing scars, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation which are common problems that people of color experience. This skincare product is in a small jar packed with natural ingredients. In truth, it is rich in Vitamin A and E, Omega-3 fatty acids, Zinc, antioxidants, and minerals.

I have discussed the benefits of turmeric, aloe vera, and bentonite clay in the other African American skin care products on this list, so let’s jump right into the rest of the ingredients in this clay mask.

Also known as kaolinite, kaolin clay is one of the most gentle clays used in skincare products. With a great ability to detoxify, it helps you get rid of impurities without drying or turning your skin red.

Then there’s sweet almond oil that is typically used to treat sun-damaged skin and acne. Last but not least, coconut oil is commonly used as a massage oil or a moisturizer for the skin.

Before using this face mask, be sure to cleanse your face first. You only need to apply a thin layer of the mask around your face and avoid the mouth and eye area. After leaving it on for 10 to 15 minutes, remove the mask with lukewarm water.

This face mask is suitable for normal, dry, oily, and even sensitive skin. For best results, apply this face mask for at least two to three times a week. With regular use, you can achieve your ideal skin in a matter of weeks.

Pros

  • No need to mix with other ingredients
  • Made with organic ingredients
  • Get rid of impurities without drying your skin
  • Suitable for all types of skin
  • Addresses many skin problems

Cons

  • You might have to splurge a bit

Without a doubt, caring for your glorious dark skin has never been easier with this turmeric face mask!

6. AsaVea Black Mask

Powerful yet gentle on the skin is what this black peel-off mask is all about. It is composed of activated charcoal, an ingredient that is popular among beauty experts. Considering its price and quality, this may be one of your options to find the best face mask for African American skin.

I like this product because it is suitable for both men and women, as well as for any skin type. Apart from the black mask tube, it includes a silicone brush that comes in handy for those who don’t want to get the substance on your hands.

One of the advantages of having a dark skin is that the laugh lines and wrinkles come out later in life. But if you ever need to smooth out those fine lines, this innovative peel-off black mask does a great job!

Furthermore, this product clears out all the blackheads. Deeply cleansing the skin, it also draws out toxins and unclogs the pores while its antioxidants protect the skin to maintain its clean and beautiful complexion.

If you are worried about dullness and dark spots, this ultra-purifying mask also evens the skin tone. You can test it by applying the product to targeted areas such as the T-zone or blackheads and open pores.

To use this face mask, start by cleansing your face. Place a warm towel on your face for 3 to 5 minutes to open up the pores. Then spread an opaque layer of the black mask evenly on your face. Make sure to avoid your hairline, eyes, eyebrows, and mouth.

Once the mask is dry, peel it off and wash the residue with water. Note that while it can take up to 20 minutes to dry, you can wait a little longer if needed. Apply your favorite moisturizer afterward.

Pros

  • Affordable for a product with great benefits
  • Smoothes out laugh lines and wrinkles
  • Evens skin tone
  • Comes with a silicone brush
  • Great for all skin types
  • Money-back guarantee

Cons

  • Learning curve in figuring out the right thickness for first-time users

Add this black mask to your skincare routine if you want an effective product that can remove blackheads, unclog your pores, and soften your skin. With their money-back guarantee, you can try this product out risk-free!

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7. Pearlessence Clay Face Mask

Turmeric and honey have many health benefits, so it is not surprising to find them in many skincare products that are suitable for African American skin. What makes the Pearlessence Clay Face Mask different is that it has Cedrus clay that helps exfoliate your skin. Made in the US, this beauty product is cruelty-free, and it does not cost an arm and a leg for a small jar.

This is definitely not like one of those sheet masks on Amazon. Many happy customers rave about this antioxidant-rich face mask. It is known for revitalizing the skin and removing the acne, dark spots, and blackheads, which is why I include this product.

Like most clay face masks, this one only takes 10 to 20 minutes to dry, which makes applying it relatively easy, and you don’t have to mix it with another ingredient. Besides, peeling it off reveals a youthful glow. So if you are looking for a product to help brighten your dull, tired skin, I’m sure that you can never go wrong with this one!

Pros

  • Budget-friendly spa-like treatment for the skin
  • No additional ingredients needed
  • Made with natural ingredients known for their health benefits
  • Helps manage different skin problems

Cons

  • Subtle earthy scent may not be everyone’s cup of tea

If you feel like giving your skin a treat at home, applying this affordable clay face mask is like having a facial in a spa. You can be assured that this product will keep your dark skin healthy and blemish-free.

8. Eve Hansen Exfoliating Turmeric Bentonite Clay Mask

If you are looking for a vegan-friendly product to nourish your skin, you might be hooked on this kind of clay mask made of all organic and non-toxic ingredients. Effective in brightening and cleansing, the clay mask is a good skincare product for African American skin.

As the name suggests, the key ingredients of this clay mask are turmeric, bentonite clay, and cranberry seeds. Besides preventing breakouts, the clay mask also improves the elasticity of your skin and reduces dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles to keep you youthful and beautiful inside out.

Cruelty-free, not just toward animals, I’m giving this brand extra points for donating 1% of the profit to green charities in an effort to build a more sustainable environment. It’s gentle not just toward your face and animals, but also toward mother nature.

When it comes to using this face mask, it is pretty simple. Just make sure your face is clean and dry before applying it. Wait until the mask is dry, which usually only takes about 10 to 15 minutes then wash it off with warm water. I highly suggest washing off the cranberry seeds with a cotton pad as it is easier this way. Then finally, apply your choice of moisturizer afterward.

A few more things that I like about this skincare product: it does not tighten when it’s dry, and if you’re not happy with the results, you can get your money back! As for the price, I’d say that this one is reasonable considering the quality of the product.

Pros

  • Soothes skin conditions
  • Gentle on the skin
  • Vegan-friendly turmeric clay mask
  • Money-back guarantee

Cons

  • Tingling sensation when used for the first time

Despite the mild burning sensation, the clay mask nourishes your skin, and if you are looking for a vegan-friendly product, then this is highly recommended!

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9. Skin Food Black Sugar Mask Wash Off

Organic black sugar granules are exfoliators that also nourish the skin. Filled with vitamins and minerals, this hydrating face mask is trusted by many customers for over a decade. Hailing from South Korean, this product has plenty of benefits, especially for black skin.

You can rest assured that the black sugar was grown without pesticides and other harmful chemicals. Also, this black sugar mask rejuvenates and moisturizes by scrubbing away dead skin cells. Mix this with water or toner and massage it gently into your skin. The sugar would melt depending on your body temperature and the choice of liquid you use with it.

Like many face masks, you can leave this on for 10 to 20 minutes then rinse it with warm water. Its citrus scent is so nice to smell while having the sugar mask on your face. You will see the results in an instant: a baby-smooth healthy skin.

The reason why I add this on the list is that apart from its great quality, this Asian brand of a skincare product is the most affordable among the face masks I reviewed. You only need a small amount of the sugar mask (about the size of a quarter) to cover the whole face so one jar can last long. To maintain that soft, bright skin, it is recommended to include this in your beauty regimen weekly.

Pros

  • Good value
  • You only need a small amount to cover the face
  • Made with organic ingredients
  • Nice citrus scent

Cons

  • Feels gritty when applied

This skincare product can help prevent acne breakouts and remove blemishes at a price that’s easy on your wallet. One jar can last long as you only need a small amount of the product at a time.

10. Majestic Pure Dead Sea Mud Mask

Ideal for both men and women, this detox mask can help you fight off acne, blackheads, and whiteheads. At the same time, it works well for oily, dry, and sensitive skin. Crafted by a family-owned company in San Diego, California, this mud mask is becoming popular across the globe.

If you are looking for an all-in-one skincare product cut out for African American skin, then you might want to get one of these. The mud mask is versatile and free from harmful chemicals, hence suitable for both the face and the body. Made with real dead sea mud, the mask is enriched with high-quality salt and minerals as well as aloe vera and jojoba oil that enables deep cleansing.

Notably, applying is super easy. There is no need to mix the mud mask with other ingredients like water. It dries up for 20-25 minutes or longer. To be safe, test the product for any allergic reaction. Pregnant women are advised to consult the doctor before using the product.

However, the texture feels like a gel rather than dead sea mud, so it might feel weird when applying it on your face. But I am delighted to see that the brand works hard to make sure their customers get a positive experience.

Pros

  • All-in-one product made with organic ingredients
  • A 24/7 email and ticket support
  • Suitable for both men and women
  • Great for oily, dry, and sensitive skin

Cons

  • May not be suitable for pregnant women

Affordable yet effective, that is why this mud mask grew a fanbase across the world. So if you have not tried this one, I recommend that you do.

What to Look for When Buying Face Masks for Black Skin

Buying Face Masks for Black Skin

Reading customer reviews on different websites may give you an idea about the product, but always remember that your skin type is different. What worked for one person’s skin may not work on yours.

The general rule of thumb is to identify your skin problems before buying anything. Moreover, you also have to consider other factors such as allergies and other skin conditions that you may already have so you don’t end up irritating your face. Meanwhile, some products may not be suitable for expectant moms. It’s best to do your homework first before purchasing.

I’ve gathered these tips from my research to help you make a more informed decision.

  • For oily skin
    Some keywords to look for in the packaging would be “clarifying,” or “detoxifying” which you have most likely seen on my reviews. As for the ingredients, look for ingredients that absorb the oil from your pores, such as clay or charcoal.

  • For dry skin
    Moisturizing and hydrating ingredients are usually found in plant oils. Shea butter, for example, is also good for keeping your skin soft and smooth.

  • For sensitive skin
    Anti-inflammatory ingredients like aloe are your best friend as they are both calming and soothing.

  • For fine lines and anti-aging
    In the packaging, see if the face mask has antioxidants as well as vitamins C and E.
  • For Acne breakouts
    Clay and charcoal can take care of the excess oil, while the oatmeal and aloe vera helps in breakouts, so keep an eye out for these ingredients when looking for a face mask.

Other Important Factors to Consider

What is a face mask for black skin

What is a face mask for black skin?

Madame Rowley invented the face mask in England during the 18th century. Initially, the first facial masks ever made were intended for those who wanted to ‘bleach, purify, and preserve the complexion.’

Today, this skincare product comes in different forms and shapes. Moreover, face masks that are suitable for African American skin have also been made available. Those with dark skin may encounter skin problems such as hyperpigmentation, discoloration, and dark spots. Meanwhile, some may have oily, dry, or sensitive skin.

Experts agree that face masks are a great addition to your skincare routine to achieve a glowing, silky smooth face.

How does it work?

Depending on the type of mask you choose, you can either directly apply the product on your face after cleansing or mix it with another liquid before using it. Regardless of the brand you bought, you need to read the instructions first before using it carefully.

Even the frequency of use of each type of face mask varies. Some products would need to be applied at least twice or thrice in a week, while others only need to be used once.

It is important to note that there is no such thing as ‘overnight success’ with face masks. You may instantly feel rejuvenated after peeling or washing off your face mask, or feel that your skin has tightened and softened. For best results, regular use is recommended.

Who is this for?

Face masks are made for both men and women with skin problems. You do not necessarily need a face mask if you already have healthy, glowing skin, but you will have days when your skin may look dull or tired, so using one is not a bad idea.

For those of you wondering if face masks are safe for children, I suggest that you read the package first as some ingredients may be harmful to their skin.

What are the different types of face masks for African-American Women?

As you probably know by now, different types of face masks could help you in your skincare routine. Here are some of the most common face masks that are available in the market:

  • Clay mask
  • Sheet mask
  • Cream mask
  • Gel mask
  • Exfoliating mask

Why do you need face masks for African American skin?

Black skin has better protection against the damaging effects of the UV rays, but no one is invincible, so you still need to take care of your skin. Once you hit puberty, oily skin and breakouts could be a problem. You regularly go out to work, study, or run errands, exposing your skin to various elements. Even stress can cause skin problems.

Many factors contribute to skin problems, but there are also ways to manage or resolve them. With face masks, you can keep your skin healthy and glowing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who makes the best face mask for black skin?

More and more brands are now coming up with new types of face masks around the world, but the ones I listed above are definitely my personal favorites. Known for their quality, Natrulo, Shea Moisture, Kiehl’s, SHILLS, JJ Beauty Creations, AsaVea, Pearlessence, Eva Hansen, SKINFOOD, and Majestic Pure make face masks–and even essence face masks–that have become my go-to skincare products.

Remember that we all have different skin types, so it is wise to do some research before buying and do some patch testing before applying the entire mask on your face.

How can African Americans get flawless skin?

A good skincare routine involves nourishing yourself inside and out. No matter how many products you buy, if you don’t eat healthy food or drink plenty of water, you might not be able to achieve that flawless skin. There are plenty of articles and blogs out there where you can learn about how your skin can benefit from fruits and vegetables, but for this article, we’ll focus on your skincare products.

For starters, if you have makeup on, be sure to remove them with a makeup remover. However, with or without makeup, you still need to clear those pores from all the dirt accumulated throughout the day with a facial cleanser. You may also have your routine, such as applying toner and moisturizer after the cleanser.

When it comes to face masks, each brand or type has different instructions. Some would suggest using the face mask at least twice or thrice a week, while others only recommend using it only once a week. Whatever the case may be, you should identify what skin problems you want to address and see which face masks would suit you.

Are black masks good for skin?

The short answer: Absolutely!

Generally, face masks are great for the skin as it can help manage, if not resolve, our skin problems. Let me remind you that before buying a face mask, identify your skin problems first, and carefully read the ingredients on the label.

How to use a face mask?

If this is your first time to try a face mask, the first step would be to read the instructions thoroughly as each face mask is used differently.

Generally, you have to wash your face before applying the mask. Then depending on which face mask you bought, you may need to mix it with water or other liquid (again, read the instructions!) before applying while some face masks are ready to use.

You would need to leave the face mask on for between 10 to 30 minutes and wash it off with warm water.

Where to buy?

Face masks are not hard to find, as these skincare products are popular around the world. You can find them in major retail stores and online stores. In my review, you will find that many of them offer great after-sales services like a money-back guarantee or a 24/7 support via email, while some give away free samples when you purchase, so keep an eye out for these things.

Conclusion

Your skin is not just the largest organ that covers your body, and it is also part of your identity. While it protects the rest of your organs from germs, pollution, the sun, and so much more, you have to take a proactive approach in taking care of it.

There are plenty of ways in which you can keep your skin healthy. Among the beauty products available in the market, face masks are extremely helpful in clearing out the dirt in your pores, managing your breakouts, evening skin tones, removing dead skin cells, getting rid of blackheads and whiteheads, fighting off aging, and giving you that youthful glow.

Don’t be afraid to explore products so you can find the best face mask for black skin that is suitable for you.

Best Face Masks for Black Skin

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