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10 Best Face Masks for Sensitive Skin in 2022 (Dermatologist-Reviewed)

Nowadays, using face masks has become an important step in the skincare routine of many people. However, you cannot choose a face mask randomly, especially if you have sensitive skin. In comparison to other skin types, sensitive skin can be irritated much more easily if it gets in touch with toxins or ingredients that can trigger allergic reactions. Therefore, choosing a face mask for sensitive skin is relatively difficult since you have to pay attention to the mask's ingredients as well as its effects.


Understanding that difficulty, we browsed through multiple reviews on Amazon and compiled a list of the 10 best face masks as well as a buying guide at the end reviewed by a board certified dermatologist to help you find a suitable face mask for your sensitive skin!

Last updated 09/26/2023
Dr. Lauren Levy
Expert
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

Dr. Levy is a board certified dermatologist practicing in NYC and Westport, Connecticut. She has expertise in treating inflammatory skin conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis. She has an interest in skincare and takes a personalized approach to all of her patients.

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Table of Contents

How to Choose Face Masks for Sensitive Skin

For sensitive skin, even one irritant can cause unwanted effects such as itchiness, redness, or acne. Therefore, when choosing a product you should consider the ingredients carefully. 


To help you find which product would be the best for your sensitive skin, we compiled a buying guide with tips on ingredients you should seek out or avoid! 

1

Avoid Ingredients That Can Cause Reactions in Sensitive Skin

In cosmetic products, some chemicals and preservatives can lead to redness, itchiness, and severe irritations for all types of skin. Sensitive skin is especially prone to these reactions. As a result, you should avoid those irritants to protect the health of your skin. 

Alcohol and Astringents Can Dry Your Skin

Alcohol and Astringents Can Dry Your Skin

Alcohol, or alcohol denat, can be harsh for those with sensitive skin. It can penetrate quickly into the layers of your skin, causing irritation, itchiness, or acne. If you happen to choose a mask with alcohol, consider using it only once in a while for a deep and purifying cleanse.


Astringents such as witch hazel, citric acid and salicylic acid are meant to tighten the skin, shrink pores, and clear acne. These are less likely to cause irritation than alcohol and are good for oily skin. Look for formulas that balance astringents with ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid to avoid overly drying your sensitive skin.

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

If you have rosacea, avoid any masks that are alcohol-based. Alcohol can burn the skin and cause redness and flushing. Alcohol is also known to strip the skin barrier, which is important to keep intact if you have eczema or rosacea.

Synthetic Fragrances and Essential Oils Can Cause Irritation

Synthetic Fragrances and Essential Oils Can Cause Irritation

When there is "fragrance" in a product's list of ingredients, a little caution may be wise. Even if the fragrance in your face mask comes from natural extracts, it can still cause redness, itchiness, and even hives.


This is especially true for those with sensitive skin. Therefore, you should consult with the brand to find out what it is and make sure it is safe for your skin. 


Natural essential oils such as lavender, tea tree, and citrus provide scents and can offer skin conditioning and antibacterial properties too. But essential oils can also be harsh, even on skin that's not sensitive to other chemicals. It may be best to avoid products with a large variety, or a large amount, of essential oils.

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

Fragrances are one of the most common allergens to cause contact dermatitis. The skin becomes red, scaly, and itchy after use. The rash usually persists for several days and recurs with repeat use of the allergen. If you have a history of eczema or atopic dermatitis, you are more likely to develop contact allergies to topical ingredients, so take caution with masks with fragrance.

Be Careful of Preservatives if You Have a Known Allergy

Be Careful of Preservatives if You Have a Known Allergy

Parabens, such as methylparabens and propylparabens, are frequently found in cosmetic products. They act as artificial preservatives to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and to increase the shelf life of products.


Another ingredient commonly used as a preservative is the solvent phenoxyethanol. Many manufacturers have actually switched to using this chemical because so many consumers want to avoid parabens! In studies, a very small number of people experienced rashes or other irritation from phenoxyethanol.


Most people have no negative reactions from parabens or phenoxyethanol, but if you've determined they don't sit well with your skin, avoid them.

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

Parabens are safe to use on most skin types. Unless you have a known allergy to them, there is no need to avoid skincare products with parabens. There are paraben-free product lines, so choose those if you want, but do not fret if your beloved mask has parabens as they are usually not harmful to the skin unless you have a known allergy.

2

Aloe Vera and Glycerin Are Soothing and Non-irritating

Aloe Vera and Glycerin Are Soothing and Non-irritating

For sensitive skin, ingredients including glycerin, hyaluronic acid, chamomile, and aloe vera can deeply moisturizing your skin without causing inflammation. 


Camellia seed oil and colloidal oatmeal are also great ingredients that can hydrate your skin effectively. If you want to find an exfoliating face mask that feels comfortable on your skin without causing inflammation, look for those that contain charcoal


Some people prefer ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) that provide the great exfoliating effect. However, AHAs such as glycolic acid can cause purging if they're used too much. You may experience breaking out, redness, and even itchiness. 

3

Determine the Type of Mask You Want to Use

There are various types of face masks that you can choose from based on your desired effects and preferences. 

Clay or Mud Masks Deeply Cleanse the Face

Clay or Mud Masks Deeply Cleanse the Face

If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, clay or mud masks can help you exfoliate dead cells, reduce impurities, and prevent acne. They contain purely natural ingredients and don't use a lot of preservatives. This makes them safe and especially suitable for sensitive skin. 

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

Clay masks are a great add-on treatment for acne. These masks can help clean out pores, reduce blackheads and whiteheads, and leave the skin feeling refreshed. 


They should not be done every night, but rather a few times a week to prevent over-drying the skin. Clay masks are also safe in pregnancy and can be used as an acne treatment during this time when many other acne treatments are contraindicated.

Sheet Masks for Better Nutrient Absorption

Sheet Masks for Better Nutrient Absorption

Sheet masks are infused with serums and nourishing ingredients. They are designed to fit your face perfectly and to help nutrients penetrate your skin layers fast and effectively. Sheet masks are also convenient to use. They don't cause a mess, and you can simply dispose of them after use. 

Thermal Masks Detoxify Your Skin

Thermal Masks Detoxify Your Skin

Thermal masks can gently heat up your skin tissue, accelerating the regeneration of skin cells and removing impurities. Most of the time, the main ingredient of a thermal mask is thermal spring water that contains nourishing minerals and vitamins. 


You can enjoy a relaxing, spa-like feeling while using a thermal mask! Your skin will look brighter and much more vibrant as a result, too. 

Exfoliating Masks Resurface the Skin’s Top Layer

Exfoliating Masks Resurface the Skin’s Top Layer

If you want to remove dead cells and make your skin appear more youthful, you should consider exfoliating or peel-off masks. Those masks are strong enough to remove dirt, blackheads, and toxins deep within your skin. 


However, they may be harsh for sensitive skin, so you should look for ingredients such as aloe vera that can provide a soothing effect to balance it out. 

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

Exfoliating masks should not be done daily but rather a few times a week for best results. When you use an exfoliating mask, your skin will absorb your other skincare products better (like retinoids or retinols or vitamin C), which can make them more effective. Make sure you use daily SPF when exfoliating, as your skin will be photosensitive and more likely to burn.

Cream and Gel Masks for Strong Anti-Aging Effect

Cream and Gel Masks for Strong Anti-Aging Effect

If you're looking for face masks that have a great anti-aging effect, cream or gel masks may be an option for you. They are packed with moisturizers and oils to make your skin more vibrant. They help balance the moisture and pH levels in the skin layers as well. 


If your skin is easily irritated or inflamed, gel masks can be helpful since they can cool down your skin and prevent redness. 

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

10 Best Face Masks for Sensitive Skin Ranking

Here are the best Face Masks for Sensitive Skin, ranked according to 10 Best Face Masks for Sensitive Skin (as of 11-04-2022). The products are ranked independently by mybest.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Mother Made

Gentle Smoothing Oatmeal Scrub & Mask

Mother Made Gentle Smoothing Oatmeal Scrub & Mask 1

$25.95

Mid

Best for Intense Moisture Treatment Without Irritation

2

Dr. Brandt

Ginseng Green Tea Purifying Clay Mask

Dr. Brandt Ginseng Green Tea Purifying Clay Mask 1

$52.00

High Mid

Best Overnight Mask for Rosacea Symptoms

3

Aveeno

Avene Soothing Moisture Mask

Aveeno Avene Soothing Moisture Mask  1

$7.32

Low

Best for Soothing Inflammation and Controlling Oil

4

MINTBiology

Rejuvenating Mask

MINTBiology Rejuvenating Mask 1

$15.99

Low Mid

Best to Brighten Your Complexion and Support Aging Skin

5

Ole Henriksen

Black Mask

Ole Henriksen Black Mask  1

$41.00

High Mid

Best for Occasional Deep Pore Cleanses and Acne Treatment

6

Vichy Laboratories

Aqualia Thermal

Vichy Laboratories Aqualia Thermal 1

$28.00

Mid

Best Overnight Hydration for Dry Skin

7

Aria Starr Beauty

Dead Sea Mud Mask

Aria Starr Beauty Dead Sea Mud Mask 1

$14.95

Low Mid

Best Mask for Oily and Sensitive Skin

8

Viva Naturals

Charcoal Sheet Mask

Viva Naturals Charcoal Sheet Mask 1

$18.66

Mid

Best Sheet Mask Set to Try 4 Different Effects

9

e・ra Organics

Revive + Microdermabrasion Manuka Honey Walnut Scrub & Mask

e・ra Organics Revive + Microdermabrasion Manuka Honey Walnut Scrub & Mask 1

$15.45

Low Mid

Best Mask That Scrubs Away Dead Skin

10

Farmacy

Aqua Boost Hydrating Gel Face Mask

Farmacy Aqua Boost Hydrating Gel Face Mask 1

$56.00

High Mid

Best Warming Mask to Hydrate, Address Eczema, and Nourish Skin

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Mother MadeGentle Smoothing Oatmeal Scrub & Mask

Gentle Smoothing Oatmeal Scrub & Mask 1
Source:amazon.com
Gentle Smoothing Oatmeal Scrub & Mask 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$25.95
Mid
Reference price
$25.95
Mid

Best for Intense Moisture Treatment Without Irritation

Pros:

  • 10,000 parts per million snail mucin secretion
  • Packed with other skin-loving ingredients like allantoin, vitamin E, collagen, adenosine, gotu kola and ceramide NP
  • Soothers and humectants like aloe, natto extract, and chamomile

Cons:

  • The idea of snail slime might make some squeamish
  • Quite sticky, according to reviewers

These masks have a lot of great humectants and emollients, like aloe, ceramide, and hyaluronic acid, but the main attraction is snail excretion. This provides intense care for dry or normal skin, and the manufacturer claims no snails are stressed during collection.


It is quite sticky, and reviewers mention they have to rub the excess in. Some recommend waiting for a good hour after taking it off while it absorbs even more. They say it is extremely hydrating, and leaves their skin soft and supple.

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No.2

Dr. BrandtGinseng Green Tea Purifying Clay Mask

Ginseng Green Tea Purifying Clay Mask 1
Source:sephora.com
Reference price
$52.00
High Mid
Reference price
$52.00
High Mid

Best Overnight Mask for Rosacea Symptoms

Pros:

  • Probiotics such as yogurt powder and lactococcus ferment aim to balance your skin's microbiome
  • Boswellia extract can smooth and reduce roughness
  • Rooibos is said to calm redness

Cons:

  • Lavender oil is a possible source of irritation

This mask is designed to reduce redness overnight. It also has hydrating properties from glycerin and honey, and even offers probiotics to support your skin microflora. 


Reviewers with rosacea say it had immediate effects in reducing redness and small bumps. Some wish it was more moisturizing, but others like that it's lightweight.

No.3

AveenoAvene Soothing Moisture Mask

Reference price
$7.32
Low

Best for Soothing Inflammation and Controlling Oil

Pros:

  • Colloidal oatmeal protects and soothes skin
  • Pumpkin seed oil may reduce acne and redness
  • Feverfew is an antioxidant that works to protect from UV damage

Cons:

  • If you have very dry skin, you may want something more moisturizing

This mask contains clays, but its star ingredient is colloidal oatmeal, which is known to calm skin. Pumpkin and feverfew can address redness, and the oil-absorbing clays are balanced by the emollients glycerin and squalane.


Some reviewers said it was hard to rinse off, but the majority are fans of how it soothes irritated skin or rosacea flare-ups. They say it controls oil, lightly exfoliates, and feels cooling.

No.4

MINTBiologyRejuvenating Mask

Rejuvenating Mask 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$15.99
Low Mid
Reference price
$15.99
Low Mid

Best to Brighten Your Complexion and Support Aging Skin

Pros:

  • Astaxanthin is an antioxidant that may have anti-aging effects
  • Ginseng fights wrinkles and reduces inflammation
  • Aloe, collagen, niacinamide, and other soothing humectants and moisturizers
  • Ingredients for brightening and pigmentation reduction include ginseng and fermented extracts like Phellinus linteus

Cons:

  • One-size-fits-all may not work for all face shapes

This mask has several ingredients that work to smooth wrinkles and improve elasticity, such as ginseng and astaxanthin. It also can reduce melanin and hyperpigmentation. Powerful moisturizing is another expected result. It even contains soothers like aloe and oatmeal!


Reviewers say their skin feels hydrated and glowing after using this mask! However, the product does have astringents and fragrance. And some people said that they had to use the product regularly to see the effects. 

No.5

Ole HenriksenBlack Mask

Black Mask  1
Source:sephora.com
Reference price
$41.00
High Mid
Reference price
$41.00
High Mid

Best for Occasional Deep Pore Cleanses and Acne Treatment

Pros:

  • Clears pores, makes them look smaller, and addresses acne
  • Cooling and refreshing
  • Lactic acid (AHA) is a mild chemical exfoliant unlikely to cause burning
  • Oil-absorbing kaolin and bentonite are balanced with glycerin and fatty alcohols for moisture

Cons:

  • BHA (salicylic acid) may be too harsh for frequent use

This mask can help sensitive, acne-prone skin, with the exfoliants lactic and salicylic acid. Salicylic acid can work wonders for acne, but since it also can be harsh, we recommend using this sparingly until you know how your skin responds.


Reviewers with sensitive skin mostly have positive results, saying they use it a few times a week without experiencing any redness, itching, or tight feeling. They love how it improves their acne and shrinks pores, and how it feels nice and cool.

No.6

Vichy LaboratoriesAqualia Thermal

Reference price
$28.00
Mid

Best Overnight Hydration for Dry Skin

Pros:

  • Overnight use allows ingredients to penetrate deeply and repair skin
  • Packed with emollients and occlusives to benefit dry skin
  • Caffeine and ginkgo biloba provide antioxidants

Cons:

  • Shea butter may make it a bit heavy for oily skin
  • A few potential irritants; although it has been tested on sensitive skin users

Formulated with natural origin hyaluronic acid, this product can rejuvenate your skin, leaving it feeling softer after just one night. The consistency is a cross between cream and gel, unlike other cream masks. 


Some reviewers commented that it's more gel-like in consistency than they expected. It also has a strong aroma, but most users said they loved that!

No.7

Aria Starr BeautyDead Sea Mud Mask

Dead Sea Mud Mask 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$14.95
Low Mid

Best Mask for Oily and Sensitive Skin

Pros:

  • Starches and kaolin absorb excess oil
  • Balanced formula, with lightweight aloe and heavier oils, make it excellent for moisturizing and hydrating
  • Dead Sea mud is filled with minerals that may benefit the skin
Cons:
  • Hickory bark extract seems to be an astringent, which may irritate

Mud masks can be great for oily and acne-prone skin, but it can be hard to find one that's suitable for sensitive skin as well. This aloe vera, shea butter, and jojoba oil formula will hydrate your skin and lock in that moisture while eliminating blackheads and minimizing the appearance of pores.


Reviewers love the scent but some point out that the jar they got says it has lavender oil. We checked the manufacturer's site and it doesn't list it as an ingredient. Most reviewers said it worked well to refresh and take away excess oily sebum on their skin.

No.8

Viva NaturalsCharcoal Sheet Mask

Charcoal Sheet Mask 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$18.66
Mid
Reference price
$18.66
Mid

Best Sheet Mask Set to Try 4 Different Effects

Pros:

  • Four types of masks with different scents
  • Sheet masks are easy to apply
  • Charcoal fiber infused with moisturizers, humectants, and skin-nourishing ingredients

Cons:

  • Sheet masks come in one size, and may not fit tightly on every part of your face

These are enriched with collagen, black tea, spinach, and hyaluronic acid to soften and rejuvenate your complexion. All four types have the same base, but each has a distinct essential oil extract. There's lavender oil for soothing, ylang ylang for glowing, sweet orange for brightening, and rose for revitalizing. 


However, the masks are very saturated, so you may feel like the serum could drip into your eyes. Some reviewers also commented that the face mask is a bit thin, so you should be careful not to tear it apart. 

No.9

e・ra OrganicsRevive + Microdermabrasion Manuka Honey Walnut Scrub & Mask

Revive + Microdermabrasion Manuka Honey Walnut Scrub & Mask 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$15.45
Low Mid

Best Mask That Scrubs Away Dead Skin

Pros:

  • Use as a scrub for exfoliation, or leave for 10 minutes as a mask
  • Honey and aloe leave skin soft and hydrated
  • Orange peel oil is high in AHAs to exfoliate and prevent dry skin

Cons:

  • Orange peel oil may cause irritation, but it depends on the amount used

Gentle microdermabrasion treatment can help remove stubborn blackheads and smooth wrinkles on sensitive skin. You can use this as a scrub or leave it on as a mask for deep conditioning.


Some reviewers said that they thought it was better as a mask than exfoliant scrub, but others love it for both. As a mask, they say it leaves their skin feeling moister and looking brighter.

No.10

FarmacyAqua Boost Hydrating Gel Face Mask

Aqua Boost Hydrating Gel Face Mask 1
Source:sephora.com
Reference price
$56.00
High Mid
Reference price
$56.00
High Mid

Best Warming Mask to Hydrate, Address Eczema, and Nourish Skin

Pros:

  • Becomes warm when applied to skin
  • Honey and glycerin pull in moisture
  • Echinacea can hydrate, reduce acne and wrinkles, and calm eczema
  • Few, if any, potential irritants
Cons:
  • Some reviewers found the warmth from the mask was too much for them

This warming mask contains a blend of honey, propolis, and royal jelly. It also offers echinacea, which has been shown to help with the symptoms of eczema.


The warming sensation likely comes from the ginger in the formula, and some reviewers with sensitive skin found it uncomfortable. However, those who liked the feeling said it left their skin soft, hydrated, and dewy.

What Does Sensitive Skin Look Like?

What Does Sensitive Skin Look Like?

Many people confuse sensitive skin with irritated skin, but they are quite different. Sensitive skin reacts to cosmetics, daily toxins, and pollutants from the surrounding environment. Commonly seen unwanted effects include redness, peeling, or dryness.


On the other hand, people with irritated skin don’t just experience redness. Irritated skin can be painful and is often related to other severe skin problems. If you're ever unsure, it might be a good idea to see a dermatologist.


If you experience redness after washing your face or after exposing your skin to sunlight for a while, then you probably have sensitive skin. Redness and itchiness indicate that the protective layer of your skin has been damaged. Therefore, your skin tends to react when affected by external factors. 

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

Sensitive skin burns or feels dry and chapped after using certain products. It may get red and flaky or may be burning and hot. Sensitive skin cannot tolerate drying products like those with strong fragrance or alcohol. 


Some people use the term "sensitive skin" when they have rosacea because the skin becomes red and flushed easily. Others use this term if they have allergies to many topical products, like fragrances. 


Most people know if they have sensitive skin because of prior experiences with skincare products that have irritated the skin. Experienced dermatologists and estheticians can tell by looking at your skin if you are more sensitive or prone to reactions.

Looking for Ways to Pamper Your Sensitive Skin?

Having sensitive skin doesn't mean skincare has to be difficult. We've checked out a bunch of products and hand-picked ones that are likely to fit your skin's needs without causing irritation.

Amazon's Best Selling Face Masks

Amazon has lots of choices for face masks, although they're not all suited to sensitive skin. They're still worth checking out if you're undecided.

Buying Guide Reviewed by Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Lauren Levy

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

This expert reviewed the contents of the buying guide for accuracy and provided factual corrections when necessary. They did not participate in the product selection process, nor are they affiliated with any of our choices unless explicitly stated so.

Top 5 Face Masks for Sensitive Skin

No. 1: Mother MadeGentle Smoothing Oatmeal Scrub & Mask

No. 2: Dr. BrandtGinseng Green Tea Purifying Clay Mask

No. 3: AveenoAvene Soothing Moisture Mask

No. 4: MINTBiologyRejuvenating Mask

No. 5: Ole HenriksenBlack Mask

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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