12 Best Makeup Artist-Approved Korean Face Masks For Acne (2024)

Soak the goodness of the anti-acne mask into your skin and stop breaking out.

Reviewed by Shawnda Dorantes, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
Written by Shiboli Chakraborti, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach
Edited by Krati Darak, MBA, Certified Skin Care Coach
Fact-checked by Medha Deb, Integrated MA  • 
All products recommended on StyleCraze are independently selected by our editorial team. If you make a purchase through any of these links, we may receive a commission. Learn more about our product selection process here.

One of the most popular Korean skin care products is the face mask made for acne. So we curated a special list of the best Korean face masks for acne! These masks are made with clinically-verified and skin-enriching ingredients like hyaluronic acid, tea tree oil, and salicylic acid that transform tired and dull skin into hydrated and glowing skin. And they come with many options, from a hydrating mask to deep cleansing clay sheets. These masks fight acne and pimples, unclog pores, and keep your skin clear. So scroll down and grab a mask to keep your skin acne-free!

Top PicksCheck Price
Best GMP-Certified:Merry Youth Natural Ampoule MaskPrice on Amazon
Best For Wrinkles:The Creme Shop Turmeric Face MaskPrice on Amazon
Best Paraben-Free:I Dew Care Yoga Kitten Balancing Heartleaf Clay MaskPrice on Amazon
Best For Pores:Elixir Cosmetics Golden Face MaskPrice on Amazon
Best Clinically Tested:SKIN1004 Zombie PackPrice on Amazon
Best Dermatologically Tested:LAPCOS Tea Tree Sheet MaskPrice on Amazon
Best Budget-Friendly:Lookatme Face MaskPrice on Amazon
Best Cruelty-Free:Masque Bar Pink Clay Peel Off Mask Price on Amazon
Best Value-For-Money:Innisfree's Volcanic Cluster Pore Clearing Clay MaskPrice on Amazon
Best Dermatologist Tested:MISSHA TIME REVOLUTION THE FIRST TREATMENT ESSENCE RxPrice on Amazon

12 Best Korean Face Masks For Acne To Try In 2024

1. Best GMP-Certified:Merry Youth Natural Ampoule Mask

The Merry Youth Natural Ampoule Mask is a three-layered pulp sheet infused with nourishing essences that keep your skin hydrated. It contains snail filtrate, cucumber, aloe, baicalin, collagen, and white pearl that soothe irritated skin and promote skin elasticity. Green tea and red ginseng eliminate redness, unclog pores, and prevent moisture loss.

Skin Type: Acne Prone | Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6.5 x 4.72 x 0.75 inches; 6 Ounces

Pros

  • Contains natural ingredients
  • Gentle formula
  • Hydrating
  • Suitable for both men and women

Cons

  • None
Our Tester's Experience

"This face mask refreshes my skin and gives it a relaxing feel. It is gentle and offers the right amount of hydration to my skin. It makes my skin more elastic and rejuvenates the dull areas. I like that it offers a cooling effect without me having to place it inside the refrigerator for hours."

2. Best For Wrinkles:The Creme Shop Turmeric Face Mask

4.6

This Turmeric Face Mask by The Creme Shop helps soothe your irritated skin, fights acne, and offers anti-aging benefits. The potent formula treats eczema and brightens dull skin. This Korean sheet mask contains collagen and honey – collagen promotes skin elasticity, and honey, a natural antibiotic, which helps in healing the skin. Turmeric protects your skin from sun damage and reduces the appearance of aging and stretch marks.

Shawnda Dorantes, skin care expert, says, “Turmeric contains anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, making it an appealing treatment option for a variety of skin conditions, including eczema and atopic dermatitis.”

This face mask hydrates your skin and offers a youthful, dewy look. It prevents skin discoloration, dark circles, wrinkles, and age spots. This antioxidant-rich product replenishes the essential moisture of your skin and revitalizes tired, dry skin. Click here to check out a detailed personal review of this product to understand a tester’s experience with it. The product has not been tested on animals.

Skin type: All | Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 7 x 4.96 x 1.42 inches; 5.6 Ounces

Pros

  • Anti-aging benefits
  • Helps with spot-treatment
  • Premium ingredients
  • Suitable for eczema-prone skin
  • Can be used as frequently as needed
  • Alcohol-free

Cons

  • None
protip_icon Pro Tip
Apply the sheet mask the night before an event. Sheet masks usually do not produce immediate results. They include essences that function best when applied to the skin overnight.

3. Best Paraben-Free:I Dew Care Yoga Kitten Balancing Heartleaf Clay Mask

4.5
I Dew Care Wash-off Clay Mask - Yoga Kitten | For Blemish-prone Skin with Kaolin, Heartleaf, and Tea Tree Extract, 2.5 Fl Oz Image: I Dew Care

The I Dew Care YOGA KITTEN Balancing Heartleaf Clay Mask calms and detoxifies your blemish-prone skin. The oil-control formula is infused with heartleaf that brightens your skin. Eucalyptus oil prevents blemishes and improves skin elasticity. Kaolin clay absorbs excess oil and keeps your skin nourished and hydrated. The K-beauty product has not been tested on animals.

Product Dimensions: 2.28 x 2.28 x 2.09 inches | Weight: 3.7 Ounces.

Pros

  • Premium ingredients
  • Blemish-reducing formula
  • Brightening
  • Gluten-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • Silicone-free
  • Vegan

Cons

  • May have a clumpy texture

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 630 rave reviews on Amazon.

4. Best For Pores:Elixir Cosmetics Golden Face Mask

4.2
Elixir Cosmetics Golden Face Mask Image: Elixir

The elixir Golden Face Mask hydrates, even tones, and brightens your skin. It contains collagen that fades fine lines, reduces wrinkles, and promotes skin elasticity. The exfoliating properties help remove dead skin cells to achieve flawless skin. Gold and coenzyme Q10 improve blood circulation and offer healthy, glowing skin. This product helps purify your skin and eliminates acne, blackheads, and redness. To understand the nuances of the product in detail, you can check out this review of a tester’s experience.

Package Dimensions: 4.72 x 0.2 x 3.15 inches| Weight: 4.66 Ounces

Pros

  • Suitable for both men and women
  • Gives a spa-like experience
  • Easy to use
  • Pleasant rose fragrance
  • Ideal for special occasions
  • Safe for all skin types
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • May not be good for sensitive skin

Our Tester's Experience

"This facial mask is easy to apply and does not cause edge-creasing. It hydrates the skin without triggering existing acne. I use it to make my skin feel smoother and soothed. I use it before applying makeup to rejuvenate the skin and prepare it for makeup products."


protip_icon Pro Tip
Do not wash off the essence before going to bed. The nourishing ingredients of the sheet mask take time to work and rejuvenate your skin. So, leaving it on overnight makes the essence work more effectively.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

More than 430 customers have given the product positive reviews on Amazon.

5. Best Clinically Tested: SKIN1004 Zombie Pack

4.3
SKIN1004 Zombie Pack Image: Skin1004

The SKIN1004 Zombie Pack is a face pack that tightens the skin and has an improved formulation. It contains propolis and other plant extracts that provide moisturizing and antimicrobial properties. The pack also has active ingredients such as egg white and aloe vera extract that effectively cleanse, tighten, and refresh the skin, leading to a smoother texture. The albumin extract in the formula provides deep hydration to the skin, resulting in an instant glow and improved skin elasticity. It also helps in reducing signs of aging. This product has been clinically-proven to show visible results with 4 weeks of consistent usage.

Skin Type: Acne Prone | Product Dimensions: 7.25 x 5 x 1.85 inches | Weight: 10.58 Ounces

Pros

  • Paraben- free
  • Mineral oil-free
  • Artificial color-free
  • Alcohol-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Suitable for acne-prone skin
  • Clinically-tested

Cons

  • None
Our Tester's Experience

"This mask helps tighten my skin and make it smoother in appearance. It does not feel heavy on the skin or trigger any sensitive spots. It has a pleasant smell that fades over time. The mask leaves my complexion brighter and rejuvenated."

6. Best Dermatologically Tested: LAPCOS Tea Tree Sheet Mask

4.5
LAPCOS Tea Tree Sheet Mask Image: Lapcos

The LAPCOS Tea Tree Sheet Mask is a hydrating product that effectively eliminates blemishes using tea tree, a natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial substance. This mask is rich in althaea rosea flower extract, which provides a relaxing sensation to the dermis and imparts a radiance to the skin. This mask not only reduces oil production and increases hydration but also helps in the elimination of acne. With regular use, you may see visible results and achieve healthy-looking, clearer skin while enjoying a relaxing experience and intense hydration. The product has not been tested on animals.

Skin Type: Acne Prone | Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 9.2 x 6 x 0.25 inches; 3.99 Ounces

Pros

  • Cruelty-free
  • Alcohol-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Soothes skin
  • Suitable for acne-prone skin

Cons

  • None
Our Tester's Experience

"These sheet masks refresh my skin and offer a relaxing experience. They moisturize my skin without feeling heavy. They come with pleasant fragrances that do not cause headaches. I like how they make my skin feel elastic and firm while improving its tone."

7. Best Budget-Friendly: Lookatme Face Mask

The lookATME Face Mask is a pack of 12 sheets designed to treat various skin woes. The Sweet Honey Bear Face Mask contains honey and propolis extract that provide smooth and supple skin. The Vegetable Bunny Mask is enriched with Hordeum vulgare and hydrolyzed collagen that supports the skin barrier. The Acqua Moisture Racoon Mask is made with hyaluronic acid that helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles. The Natural Bamboo Panda Mask is infused with Bamboo Waterlock Complex that hydrates and nourishes the skin. These pore-refining face masks shrink enlarged pores, treat hyperpigmentation and acne scars, and reduce dry, flaky skin.

Skin Type: Acne Prone | Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 4.88 x 1.57 x 1.1 inches; 1.69 Ounces

Pros

  • Moisturizes the skin
  • Budget-friendly
  • Non-sticky
  • Long-lasting

Cons

  • None

8. Best Cruelty-Free:Masque Bar Pink Clay Peel Off Mask 

3.6
Masque Bar Pink Clay Peel Off Mask Image: Masque Bar

The masque Bar Pink Clay Peel-Off Mask helps detoxify and deep cleanse the skin. It is formulated with kaolin and bentonite clays that remove acne, pimples, and blackheads. Anise, peach, and grapefruit extracts transform dull and tired skin into healthy-looking skin. The rich formula soothes, brightens, and moisturizes your skin and diminishes signs of aging.

Skin Type: Acne Prone | Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 4.88 x 1.57 x 1.1 inches; 1.69 Ounces

Pros

  • Exfoliating
  • Detoxifying
  • Contains fruit and natural extracts
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • Does not last long

Our Tester's Experience

"I use this face mask because it is user-friendly and refines my pores. It makes my skin feel fresh and soft. I use it after coming back from work to remove the dirt that accumulates in my skin all day long. It spreads thickly and is easy to peel off as well."


9. Best Value-For-Money: Innisfree’s Volcanic Cluster Pore Clearing Clay Mask

4.5
Innisfree Pore Clearing Clay Mask Image: Innisfree

The Innisfree Volcanic Cluster Pore Clearing Clay Mask is a pore care product that effectively cleanses and exfoliates the skin. This deep-cleansing mask contains walnut shells, AHA, and absorbing jeju super volcanic clusters. These ingredients help improve the appearance of clogged pores, absorb excess oil, and gently exfoliate the skin. This clinically-proven product is also effective in removing pollution particles, helping to even out skin tone and provide bright and clear skin. The mask is also calming and soothing, making it suitable for all skin types.

Skin Type: Normal | Product Dimensions: 3 x 3 x 3 inches | Weight: 1.76 Ounces

Pros

  • Moisturizes the skin
  • Skin-clearing formula
  • Gives even skin tone
  • Budget-friendly
  • Paraben -free
  • Suitable for sensitive skin
  • Soothing
  • Clinically-tested

Cons

  • Leaves behind residue

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

It has received over 871 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.

10. Best Dermatologist Tested:Mask Science Mediheal N.M.F Intensive Hydrating Mask 

4.6
Mediheal N.M.F. Intensive Hydrating Mask Image: Mediheal

The Mask Science Mediheal N.M.F Intensive Hydrating Mask contains humectants, amino acids, sugars, lipids, and minerals that keep the skin hydrated. The Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) nourishes dry skin and locks your skin’s natural moisture. This face mask helps refine and tighten your skin. Hyaluronic acid and binding sugar keep your skin hydrated and offer a soft, supple look. This mask may help minimize skin irritations.

Product Dimensions: 1.69 x 4.17 x 8.23 inches | Weight: 13.12 Ounces.

Pros

  • Naturally-derived ingredients
  • Vegan
  • Non-toxic
  • Alcohol-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Dermatologist-tested

Cons

  • The fragrance may be too strong for some people

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The overwhelming 207 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.

11. Best Easy-To-Use: I’m from Mugwort Mask

4.5
I'm from Mugwort Mask Image: I'm From

The I’m from Mugwort Mask is a wash-off mask that is designed to soothe and calm the skin. It contains mugwort, which is included in the product at a concentration of 2.1%. Mugwort is rich in vitamins and minerals, and it has a relaxing and cooling effect that works quickly to relieve inflammation and redness. The mild gel contains mugwort powder, which helps to regulate the skin’s temperature as soon as it penetrates the skin. This mask is gentle enough to use every day.

Product Dimensions: 2.95 x 2.56 x 2.56 inches | Weight: 9.17 Ounces

Pros

  • Calms skin
  • Non-sticky
  • Moisturizes the skin
  • Long-lasting
  • Suits all skin types
  • Not tested on animals

Cons

  • Expensive

Our Tester's Experience

"This face mask leaves my skin feeling clean and refreshed. Its gel texture spreads easily and does not remain sticky when applied. It offers a soothing feel to my skin without any tingling sensations. It controls excess sebum product in my skin and rinses off easily without triggering skin issues."


12. Best Anti-Aging: SeoulCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Jelly Mask

3.9
SeoulCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Jelly Mask Image: Seoulceuticals

The SeoulCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Jelly Mask is a natural face mask made from plant-based hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5. It hydrates and smoothens the skin to make it look younger and more radiant. It contains rosehip oil and rice bran, two ingredients known for their ability to soothe the skin while also delivering essential fatty acids that help the skin look and feel fresh and more alive. This face mask also reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles and improves skin’s elasticity providing soft and supple skin.

Product Dimensions: 2 x 2 x 2 inches | Weight: 2 Ounces.

Pros

  • Cruelty-free
  • Vegan
  • Fragrance-free
  • Oil-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Gluten-free
  • Alcohol-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Moisturizes the skin
  • Gentle formula
  • Suitable for all skin types

Cons

  • None
*The prices provided in this article are based on the latest available information. However, they may vary due to changes in pricing by the seller and/or promotional offers.

Face masks for acne are popular K-beauty products because of their formulations. They are ideal for acne-prone skin and offer exceptional results. With so many options, it might be hard to pick the best! Look into the following factors when deciding to purchase the best Korean masks for acne treatment.

What To Consider When Buying Korean Face Masks For Acne

  • Ingredients: Make sure your choice of Korean mask is enriched with skin-friendly ingredients which diminish acne and offer smoother skin. Look for ingredients like niacinamide, salicylic acid, tea tree and rosemary oil, zinc, retinoid, AHA, BHA, and benzoyl peroxide. These ingredients help reduce inflammation, open clogged pores, increase collagen production, enhance cell renewal, reduce dead skin buildup, and combat acne-causing bacteria.
    Avoid masks with a chemical formulation that might irritate your skin. Avoid combinations with paraben, alcohol, SLS, artificial fragrance, phthalate, and gluten.
  • Types Of Masks: Sheet masks for acne are rich in natural ingredients and are mess-free. A clay mask is equally effective; it pulls the extra oil from the skin and brightens it. The peel-off mask for acne-prone skin detoxifies and deep cleanses the skin. Thus, you can pick out the mask for your skin care routine according to your time and convenience.
  • Budget-Friendly: The price of face masks is a vital point you must consider. Always shop within your budget while reviewing Korean masks. Good quality masks are available at all price ranges. Remember, the price of the product doesn’t necessarily reflect the quality.
  • Skin-Friendly Formula: Opt for a gentle formula that exfoliates the skin without irritation and prevents acne breakouts. Choose products which are oil-free, non-comedogenic, non-acnegenic and would not clog pores.

Note: Patch testing is recommended when purchasing new skin care products to check for irritation or inflammation.

Infographic: Korean Face Masks for Acne: Key Natural Ingredients and Their Benefits

The popularity of Korean skin care regimens has skyrocketed recently, and for a good reason. They work! If you are switching to K-face masks for acne care, check out what ingredients you must look for in the infographic below.

Korean Face Masks for Acne: Key Natural Ingredients and Their Benefits (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

Download Infographic in PDF version

The Bottom Line

Korean skincare offers a plethora of nourishing products including the best face masks. These masks help rejuvenate the skin by absorbing excess oil and help with acne-fighting the bacteria from the skin’s surface. The I Dew Care Yoga Kitten Balancing Heartleaf Clay Mask soothes, detoxifies, and brightens skin, while Innisfree’s Volcanic Cluster Pore Clearing Clay Mask moisturizes all skin types. For a fragrance-free option, LAPCOS Tea Tree Sheet Mask is the ideal pick. The best Korean face masks penetrate deep into the skin and hydrate the skin cells to provide you with glowing acne-free skin. These masks are budget-friendly, cruelty-free, and easy to use. However, some products might cause a slight tingling sensation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it okay to use Korean face masks every day?

Yes, in Korea, people use face masks on a daily basis. They keep on switching between hydrating, purifying, and exfoliating face masks depending on their needs. Therefore, if you can make these transitions, you can use different Korean face masks each day.

Should you wash your face after using a Korean face mask?

No, you generally do not wash your face after using a Korean face mask. You just remove the sheet mask and let the leftover serum get absorbed into your skin.

Can a Korean face mask remove pimples?

Yes, a Korean anti-acne face mask can remove pimples and even prevent future breakouts.

How long do you leave your Korean face mask on?

Leave a Korean face mask on your face for around 15 minutes and then remove it.

What happens if you leave a Korean face mask on too long?

Leaving your Korean face mask on your face for too long may be harmful to your skin. It may cause excessive dryness and irritation as it absorbs all the good nutrients back from your face.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

Shiboli Chakraborti, the author of this article, is a certified skin care coach. She is enthusiastic about skin care and has a deep understanding of the skin’s cellular demands. She read numerous product specifications and user feedback to curate this list of the best Korean face masks for acne. The products mentioned in the list fight acne and pimples, unclog pores, and keep your skin clear.

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