# Medicube Zero Pore Blackhead Mud Mask for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/medicube/zero-pore-blackhead-mud-mask/for/combination-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Ireland.

Brand: [Medicube](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/medicube)
Category: [Face masks](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/best/face-masks)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for combination skin; other cleansing masks fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate pore cleansing for your combination skin, as kaolin and bentonite absorb excess sebum, while salicylic acid helps to clear pores and reduce oiliness. Camellia sinensis leaf extract provides antioxidant benefits, complementing the pore-refining action.
- The inclusion of hyaluronic acid and panthenol offers some hydration and soothing effects, which is beneficial for maintaining skin comfort.
- The product is safe for your combination skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/medicube/zero-pore-blackhead-mud-mask/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/medicube/zero-pore-blackhead-mud-mask/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/medicube/zero-pore-blackhead-mud-mask/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/medicube/zero-pore-blackhead-mud-mask/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/medicube/zero-pore-blackhead-mud-mask/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/medicube/zero-pore-blackhead-mud-mask/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/medicube/zero-pore-blackhead-mud-mask/for/mature-skin): Low
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/medicube/zero-pore-blackhead-mud-mask/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/medicube/zero-pore-blackhead-mud-mask/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Charcoal Powder, Kaolin, Bentonite, Centella Asiatica Extract

## What the research says

- Twice daily application of a multitargeted dermocosmetic cream provided comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in reducing inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and total lesions in 150 Caucasian subjects with mild-to-moderate acne over 56 days, while demonstrating superior skin tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/))
- A bentonite-based facial mask with Alcea sulphurea extract combined with oral azithromycin significantly reduced total lesion count and acne severity index while enhancing patient satisfaction in patients with moderate acne compared to placebo plus azithromycin over 8 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41347526/))
- A new topical panthenol-containing emollient significantly improved transepidermal water loss reduction, stratum corneum hydration, and intercellular lipid lamellae length compared with control in healthy subjects without negatively impacting bacterial viability. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/))
- A panthenol-enriched mask significantly decreased erythema and hyperpigmentation, increased sebum and stratum corneum moisture, and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to a saline dressing in 60 subjects undergoing facial laser treatment. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40613435/))
- Quaternized carboxymethyl chitosan/organic montmorillonite nanocomposite demonstrated superior moisture-adsorption and retention compared to hyaluronic acid, good UV-protection ability, negligible dermal irritation, and prominent moisture-retention efficacy on human stratum corneum when formulated into a cosmetic cream. ([Carbohydrate Polymers, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28732847/))
- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen achieved a higher cure rate (39%) than salicylic acid (24%) and a wait-and-see approach (16%) for cutaneous warts at 13 weeks in primary care patients. ([CMAJ, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20837684/))
- A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/))
- Treatment with 2% supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel resulted in a regression and markedly improvement rate of 51.01% compared to 43.10% for Adapaline gel in patients with mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris, showing no significant difference in efficacy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590107/))
- Soap-and-water wash and superactive charcoal paste applied topically at various times after T-2 toxin exposure effectively reduced skin lesion severity in swine compared to untreated controls. ([Fundamental and Applied Toxicology, 1989](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2612785/))
- Vectorization of high molecular weight hyaluronic acid with clay enabled its penetration into deeper skin layers and led to a significant clinical reduction in fine lines in the crow's feet area compared to placebo after 28 days. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38591218/))
- Twice-weekly use of a clay mask over 4 weeks in 75 adults with oily or combination skin improved acne-related outcomes, sebum content, skin evenness, hydration, and reduced dryness and irritation. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38009030/))
- Clay jojoba oil facial masks reduced total skin lesions by a mean of 54% after 6 weeks in 133 participants with acne-prone, lesioned skin and mild acne compared to baseline. ([Forschende Komplementarmedizin, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22585103/))
- A novel water-in-oil emulsion with a lecithin-modified bentonite prevented epidermal degradation and inflammatory protein secretion induced by urban dust and cedar pollen more effectively than a conventional water-in-oil emulsion in a reconstructed human epidermis model. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31995229/))
- Bentonite nanoparticles and honey co-administration improved skin wound healing in BALB/c mice by reducing inflammatory cell infiltration and increasing fibroblastosis, new epithelium thickness, granulation area, and collagen density compared to the untreated control group. ([The International Journal of Lower Extremity Wounds, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35950795/))
- A novel electrospun chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol/montmorillonite clay scaffold proved to be a suitable material for cell proliferation and demonstrated strong antimicrobial and scavenging efficacy for wound healing applications. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38657925/))
- Topical application of 0.05% w/w ECa 233 gel reduced erythema index by 0.03 U and improved early crusting and general wound appearance compared to placebo in thirty individuals undergoing facial laser resurfacing. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32310680/))
- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this clay mask is highly favored by users with oily and combination skin for its rapid 3-minute drying time and immediate cooling effect. It effectively refines skin texture and reduces the appearance of surface oil and pores. Some users with sensitive skin report it can be drying, and it may not fully extract deep blackheads in one application.

- Liked: Cooling sensation (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Fast drying time (often mentioned)
- Liked: Smoother skin texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Drying and tightness (often mentioned)
- Liked: Oil control (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Pore tightening (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Incomplete extraction (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Mild irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Removal difficulty (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Strong scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this cleansing mask during your PM routine once a week to control oil. Start slowly 3 times a week and increase if your skin feels comfortable.
- Apply the cleansing mask after the cleansing step and before using your hydrating toner. This ensures it works effectively on your skin.
- Spread an even layer over your face using gentle motions. Avoid any harsh rubbing to keep your skin calm.
- Apply the mask to clean and slightly damp skin for the best results. This helps the product target oily shine efficiently.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area during application. Do a simple patch test before your very first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6089f210022bdd96805c3bf12c9a44a3.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does medicube Zero Pore Blackhead Mud Mask work for combination skin?

This mask works moderately well for your combination skin by soaking up extra oil and clearing pores, though other products fit it better. A cleansing mask for this skin needs strong exfoliating and oil-controlling ingredients paired with soothing hydration to keep the skin balanced and comfortable.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41347526/)

### Which ingredients make this mud mask a good fit for combination skin?

Salicylic acid, charcoal powder, kaolin, and bentonite make this mud mask a good fit because they absorb extra oil and clear out pores, while panthenol and hyaluronic acid help keep your skin comfortable and hydrated. A cleansing mask for combination skin needs strong oil-control ingredients paired with soothing and hydrating components to balance both oily and dry areas safely.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40613435/)

### What does Salicylic Acid do for combination skin?

Salicylic acid helps clear clogged pores and balance oily areas while remaining gentle enough for dry spots on combination skin. It reduces breakouts and oiliness effectively with a low likelihood of irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

### What does Charcoal Powder do for combination skin?

Activated charcoal products lack clinical evidence to support claims that they can treat skin conditions or provide exfoliative benefits for combination skin. Skincare for this skin type needs ingredients that gently balance oil and hydration without causing irritation.
Sources: [Clinics in Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32513407/)

### Where does this mud mask go in a skincare routine for combination skin?

This cleansing mask goes in your weekly routine after a makeup remover, cleanser, and enzyme powder, and before a hydrating toner and treatment. Combination skin needs products with clays to soak up extra oil and salicylic acid to clear pores, alongside soothing ingredients like panthenol to keep skin comfortable.

### Can I use this mud mask with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this mask in your weekly routine, but avoid applying it on the same nights you use retinol to prevent irritation. Instead, use the mask on a separate evening, and make sure to follow with a good moisturizer to keep your skin calm and hydrated.

### How often should I use this mud mask?

You can use this cleansing mask once a week as part of your weekly routine. Combination skin needs a product that balances oil absorption with soothing hydration and gentle pore-clearing ingredients.

### Can this mud mask clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for combination skin?

This mud mask is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on your combination skin, as it contains clays and salicylic acid that help clear out oil and debris. However, because reviewers frequently report a drying and tight feeling, this type of product needs extra hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and soothing agents like panthenol to keep the skin comfortable.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41347526/)

### Is this mud mask fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €56.86 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [La Mer The Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-mer/the-tonic/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €115.30 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €16.50 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ie: €17.56 (https://www.amazon.ie/dp/B0D1G7XF9X?tag=lovi-care-web-product02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 3 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Kaolin, Bentonite, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Charcoal Powder, Salicylic Acid, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Witch Hazel Extract, Allantoin, Panthenol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Hyaluronic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/medicube/zero-pore-blackhead-mud-mask/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/medicube/zero-pore-blackhead-mud-mask/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/medicube/zero-pore-blackhead-mud-mask/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/medicube/zero-pore-blackhead-mud-mask/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/medicube/zero-pore-blackhead-mud-mask/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/medicube/zero-pore-blackhead-mud-mask/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/medicube/zero-pore-blackhead-mud-mask/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/medicube/zero-pore-blackhead-mud-mask/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medicube/zero-pore-blackhead-mud-mask/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/medicube/zero-pore-blackhead-mud-mask/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/medicube/zero-pore-blackhead-mud-mask/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/medicube/zero-pore-blackhead-mud-mask/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medicube/zero-pore-blackhead-mud-mask/for/combination-skin