The most refreshing face masks for men

Applying a face mask is a great way to relax and unwind at the end of a busy week, or to help nourish and pamper your skin after being outside in the great British weather.

But face masks aren't just for women and can be a treat for men too, perfect for Father's Day or to help with skin concerns.

Face masks for men come with a wealth of benefits, with unique ingredients that can help soothe, hydrate, clean and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

We've listed the best face masks for men, as well as key tips and information on how to incorporate face masks into your male skincare routine.

To make sure we provided the best information possible, we reached out to Dr Ross Perry, Medical Director of Cosmedics skin clinics, who provided his expertise around men's skincare.

How can a face mask help men's skin?

Dr Ross Perry said, "Men’s skin is tougher and thicker than female skin because of the hormone testosterone giving it a very different structure. Male skin tends to be oilier and ages differently.

"However, men still suffer from the same skin problems as women such as acne... more so because male skin produces more sebum and as a result, its PH is lower than female skin and is prone to impurities.

"Just like female skin, men can also suffer from eczema, psoriasis and sensitivity, especially because of facial hair and shaving frequently.

"A face mask can be great for men’s skin, particularly if the face gets irritated after shaving. A mask helps to soften facial hair so when the razor glides over the skin there is less irritation because it adds hydration.

"If you suffer from acne breakouts then a targeted mask can also be really beneficial for men. Masks are great for unclogging pores, getting rid of impurities, lessens the appearance of wrinkles, puffiness around the eyes and adds hydration."

15 of the best face masks for men

We've listed some great face masks for men with tried and tested reviews from users and our tester, Matthew from Watford.

This clay face mask helps to remove excess oils and absorbs stubborn dirt from the pores, great for acne-prone skin. Enriched with purifying Charcoal and Kaolin clay, it'll help level up your skincare routine for ten uses. Simply apply and then rinse thoroughly after letting it dry for 10 minutes.

Face mask type: Clay | Skin type recommendation: Oily

Reviewer Ryan wrote on Amazon: "Purchased this as I wanted to be able to have a nice relaxing night by myself once-twice a week to help de-stress and my skin and face feels much better after wearing this face mask. It applies easy and comes off with warm water."

With witch hazel, willow bark and juniper, this mattifying Cornish clay face mask has been specially formulated to minimise excess oil and deeply cleanse the face. Once you've rinsed off after ten minutes, your skin will feel beautifully soft and smooth.

Face mask type: Clay | Skin type recommendation: Oily

Reviewer Jones said: "I write as a man with oily and sensitive skin (African American). The end results of using this mask are terrific! It is a little difficult to get off as it sticks well once hardened, but it is worth it! The end result is skin that is not dry and the oil and dirt is completely washed out. Take a "before" and "after" picture and a clear skin radiance is immediately visible. For best results use Bulldog Toner afterwards."

With pulverised green tea and Bentonite Clay, this face mask will deep-cleanse, soften and revitalise the skin, clearing it of impurities and pore-clogging oils. Made specifically for men's skin, this face mask will help ease common problems such as ingrown hairs and razor burn.

Face mask type: Clay | Skin type recommendation: All skin types

Reviewer Robin said, "I am a man from a generation of men that are perhaps a little reluctant to use cosmetics (that's what this is in my view). It really left my skin feeling great, really clean and fresh. That said, this is good stuff. I have also bought it elsewhere. A good price for an excellent product."

This unisex face mask will leave your skin feeling soft and replenished with the rich Avocado hydrating the skin with creamy moisture. Formulated with Avocado Fruit Extract, Avocado Oil and Evening Primrose Oil this fresh feeling mask is fragrance-free and perfect for giving you healthy-looking skin.

Face mask type: Cream | Skin type recommendation: All skin types including sensitive skin

Pete on Feel Unique wrote, "Great product for a face refresh! I enjoy using this on a Sunday evening to get ready for the week ahead and feel refreshed before starting up on Monday."

Treat your skin to a clarified, smooth and deeply cleansed feeling with this clay-based formulation. It'll help remove residual impurities, decongest the skin and refresh it with replenishing vegetable oils. Cool to the touch and perfect for rejuvenating tired skin, the aroma is floral and earthy with only one or two teaspoons needed to layer the face.

Face mask type: Clay | Skin type recommendation: Normal, oily, combination and blemish-prone skin

A male reviewer on SpaceNK said, "This is one of the best clay masques I have ever used. I believe the masque has Kaolin Clay? I love the glow it gives my skin as well as the clean feeling I get after using it. It goes on sooooo smoothly as it is the most gorgeous 'wet' goopy texture. Then in about five minutes it dries down to a semi-firm cast.

"The natural botanicals within this mask truly cleanse the pores (I would know as I have sebaceous filaments on my nose). I don't regret buying it whatsoever and would repurchase it. The price is also extremely reasonable!"

Give your face the energy boost it needs with this face mask designed to hydrate, restore and rejuvenate men's skin. Packed with Green Tea and anti-ageing Collagen, it'll work to soothe the skin from irritation, hydrate thirsty skin and brighten complexion for a new lease of life.

Face mask type: Sheet | Skin type recommendation: Normal, oily, combination and ageing skin

Chris on LookFantastic said: "I've tried a lot of face masks most of which are all very similar, a thin papery sheet which is difficult to unfold and apply to you're face. This mask is much thicker, easier to apply and gives a cooling effect while wearing it, so relaxing.

"My skin also was noticeably plumper. It might not be a great solution to combat ageing but it's a great mask to help unwind after a long day. I recently shaved my beard which always annoyed me when wearing masks. These sheet masks aren't great for any of you guys with beards... Feels like a waste as most of the mask doesn't touch your skin."

This purifying mask treatment comes in a fun and refreshing blue colour and has been formulated for powerful skin detoxification to unclog pores and help remove dirt, pollution and excess oil. Use it once or twice a week to leave your skin looking clean, clear and healthy.

Face mask type: Clay | Skin type recommendation: For all skin types including combination, dry, normal, oily and sensitive

Review: "I was intrigued by this bright blue face mask but it preps the skin amazingly well before a shave - just make sure that you rinse it off completely afterwards as blue patches on your face could take some explaining..."

This deep cleansing mask help to minimise pores, protect the skin and improves hydration. Packed with iris extract, zinc salt and vitamin A to cleanse, refresh and reboot the skin, the combination of active ingredients will also help reduce redness and the sebum production responsible for oily skin.

Face mask type: Clay | Skin type recommendation: Combination and oily

Tried and tested by our reviewer, Matthew: "The mask made my skin feel refreshed and smoother after application and I had a shiny nose to prove it! The mask dried really quickly and was easy to remove which made for an easier process. The formula smelled of something like cucumber/ kiwi and clay which I found a bit overwhelming in the pot but thankfully it was subtle on my face."

This clarifying clay mask from Dr Haushcka helps to effectively help minimise blemishes, enlarged pores and deep cleanse the skin. Formulated with Loess clay with nasturtium and witch hazel, the mask actively loosens dirt particles, lifting them from the skin as well as soothing, diminishing the appearance of redness and softening blackheads. Using 100 per cent natural cosmetics, you mix this face mask yourself before application.

Face mask type: Clay | Skin type recommendation: All skin conditions, especially those with blemish-prone or inflammation-prone skin

Tried and tested by our reviewer, Matthew: "This was my first experience using a powdered face mask that you mix yourself, but it was really easy to do following the instructions on the packet. The advised amount was perfect for a full coverage clay mask, though I did find that the mix was a little lumpy, even after a thorough stir. On application, it felt really cold and refreshing on my skin and dried well in the ten-minute window. After removing, my skin felt warmer and noticeably tighter, especially on my neck. It was really refreshing and felt lovely and natural."

This unisex anti-wrinkle multi-use eye mask is great for targeting the look of puffiness and dark circles, helping to brighten, rejuvenate and hydrate the eye area. The bouncy gel texture feels cool and refreshing on the skin and instantly leaves the eye area looking smoother and more youthful. Serum infused with Hyaluronic Acid, this mask will help to reduce the visible effects of tension and strain around the eyes.

Face mask type: Gel | Skin type recommendation: All skin types for around the eye application

Tried and tested by our reviewer, Matthew: "This mask really surprised me because I was expecting it to be more creamy, but it definitely has a more jelly-like texture which was bouncy as described. It was really cooling to apply and I applied it just before bed to wear overnight as a thin layer. I can't say if a good night's sleep or the gel made my eye area look a little fresher in the mornings, but I certainly can't complain."

Since 1990, environmentally-conscious brand Origins has been committed to creating the highest-quality products that are good for your wellbeing and nature. This active bamboo charcoal face mask helps to give you a brighter, smoother look and feel by absorbing environmental toxins, dissolving impurities and drawing out pore-cloggers. It helps to purify the skin by keeping it clean, clear and blemish-free.

Face mask type: Clay | Skin type recommendation: Oily, combination and blemish-prone skin

One reviewer found this to be expensive but effective: "The first time I used it, my skin felt tingly and I thought it might be a little harsh for my sensitive skin. The results were really good, my skin was really clean and pores were smaller. With regular use it can really improve the appearance of skin. My tube lasted about nine months so it's good value for money too."

For eyes that need a hydration boost in a pinch, these eye masks will work wonders in just 20 minutes. Formulated with powerful marine actives and hydrating Hyaluronic Acid, this unique gel treatment provides an instant skin-tightening effect while deeply moisturising the delicate eye area. The appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the eye contours should be visibly reduced, for a younger, smoother and tighter look.

Face mask type: Gel mask | Skin type recommendation: All skin types for around the eye application

Tried and tested by our reviewer, Matthew: "These gel eye masks have become a part of my skincare routine that I look forward to each week. While I can't say if they've made me look younger (I can only hope!) the skin around my eyes feels instantly refreshed, tighter and smoother afterwards. The gel masks are really easy to stick to your face with no sliding and comfortable to wear for the full 20 minutes."

These non-bleached sheet masks from Bulldog are made from bamboo and have been designed to instantly energise, brighten and revitalise tired skin. Containing rice, algae and maize, the pack contains eight compressed masks and 100ml of sheet mask “essence” liquid which you soak the masks in for instant hydration and eco-friendly production. Specially designed for men’s skin, there’s even a perforation to remove the bottom of the mask for beard wearers.

Face mask type: Sheet | Skin type recommendation: All skin types

Video review by Robin James for his Man For Himself series:

Richly infused with peptides, Grown Alchemist’s sleep masque will help to reverse signs of ageing by firming and increasing your skin's elasticity. Packed with nourishing and cooling actives, you apply this formula at night and let it do the hard work as you sleep. This mask makes the perfect treat for sensitive skin and is recommended for anti-ageing benefits.

Face mask type: Cream | Skin type recommendation: All skin types with a focus on sensitive and ageing skin

One reviewer on Adore Beauty said: "I love this but I use it as a night moisturiser rather than a masque. I don’t want to layer this on thick like a masque and get my pillow dirty (and also waste it as it’s very expensive). It’s a great rich hydrating night cream. I wake up looking great the next day."

From the L'Oreal Paris Hydra Energetic range, discover this recharging orange tissue mask for men to energise the skin. It is designed to hydrate and fight excess oil on the skin and with fast action from five minutes, your skin will be left feeling recharged with moisture. The tissue mask comes in an XL size making it ideal for men's skin and faces.

Face mask type: Sheet | Skin type recommendation: All skin types, especially oily or tired-looking skin

Reviewer Johnny found it especially useful when facing the elements: "I don't usually use face masks however I decided to give this one a go as the Mrs insisted I try them. The mask is very soothing and definitely leaves you feeling fresh and moisturised."

Face masks for men FAQs

Most men don't think to consider a face mask as part of their routine and so knowing when to apply one and how they can be used around skincare and shaving can be a bit confusing.

Dr Ross Perry shares his advice answering these frequently asked questions.

How do I find the best face mask for me?

While it's easy to judge a book by its cover, Dr Ross recommends choosing your face mask based on your skin type.

"Fancy packaging and expensive face masks don’t always mean they’re the best to use. Of course, it’s all dependent on your skin type as to the product you choose with many leading brands and high street options available."

We would also recommend reading reviews from other users, especially those that mention having a similar skin condition or type to you. While everyone's skin is different, this should help give you an indication of how it may treat your skin.

How often can men use a face mask?

"The general rule of thumb is to use a mask 1-2 times per week dependent on the skin type," says Dr Ross. "Start with cleansing to rid the skin of any excess dirt and build-up on the top layer of the skin before putting a face mask on.

"Because cream masks are best for hydrating dry and sensitive skin, some can be used daily but anything with exfoliating, or anti-ageing ingredients shouldn’t really be used more than a couple of times a week so as not to strip the skin of its natural oils which can make the skin more sensitive in the long run."

We think the best time to enjoy a face mask is mid-week and at the end of the week - this spaces the usage out nicely and gives you the perfect excuse for a pamper at the end of a busy week or for a mid-week pick-me-up.

Where should a man incorporate a face mask into their skincare routine?

"It’s best to use a gentle cleanser first to get rid of the top layer of dirt and build-up from the day. Pat the skin dry rather than rubbing it which can cause irritation," advises Dr Ross.

"Pop on a mask. Follow the instructions before gently removing the mask with a face cloth and warm water, or peeling off. Follow this by using plenty of moisturiser."

Can a face mask be used after shaving?

"Yes you can use a face mask after shaving but it’s best to leave the skin for at least an hour to lessen sensitivity. The benefits of applying a mask on freshly shaven skin are far more than unshaven skin because you’ve already prepped the skin to a certain extent by using a blade that also exfoliates the skin. Freshly shaved skin will allow the mask to really penetrate and get maximum benefits."

Are certain ingredients best for certain skin conditions and types?

Dr Ross says, "Cream masks are great for most skin types and tend to be the most popular choice for men as they do the job of hydrating the skin, unclogging deeper pores and lessening breakouts whilst reducing under-eye puffiness.

"Clay masks are great for oily and acne-prone skin which is often dull in appearance. A Clay mask dries on the skin and exfoliates at the same time, but should only really be used once or twice a week. Ingredients often found in a clay mask include Charcoal powder to help detox, Kaolin White Clay to exfoliate the skin, Bentonite which helps to even skin tone and probiotics which help to reduce acne.

"A peel-off mask can be quite tricky for men with sensitive skin due to shaving as they can pull the skin when removing. However, they are a good choice for those wanting to remove dead skin cells and want a more even complexion whilst aiding hydration. The mask goes on wet before drying very quickly. A peel-off mask is a good choice for those with dull, uneven and flaky skin. Expect to find ingredients such as Vitamins for brightening, antioxidants to help fight the signs of ageing, charcoal to detox and aloe to aid sensitivity.

"Sheet masks are gaining popularity, especially with male celebrities. It’s essentially a face-shaped fabric containing serum that is packed full of great ingredients for the skin. They can be used daily and are great for reducing puffiness and hydration. They can be used for any skin type. ingredients generally include fruit enzymes to brighten, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and caffeine."

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