# ZO Skin Health Complexion Clearing Masque for acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for acne-prone skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-clearing-masque/for/acne-prone-skin

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

Brand: [ZO Skin Health](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/zo-skin-health)
Category: [Face masks](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/face-masks)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with acne-prone skin: breakouts, blackheads, and post-acne marks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for acne-prone skin; other cleansing masks fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate suitability for your combination skin, as sulfur and kaolin work to decongest pores and absorb excess oil, which can help with blemishes and breakouts. Glycerin provides some hydration, but may not be sufficient for drier areas of combination skin.
- The formula is safe for your acne-prone skin, with no harsh or prohibited ingredients that could cause irritation.
- The product's primary function is pore cleansing, which aligns with your goal of addressing acne and breakouts.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-clearing-masque/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-clearing-masque/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-clearing-masque/for/combination-skin): Low
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-clearing-masque/for/sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-clearing-masque/for/acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-clearing-masque/for/dark-spots): Low
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-clearing-masque/for/mature-skin): Caution
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-clearing-masque/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-clearing-masque/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Sulfur, Kaolin, Bentonite, Glycerin, Caprylyl Glycol

## What the research says

- 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/))
- 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 preservative system containing 1,2-hexanediol and caprylyl glycol showed no delayed Type IV dermal sensitivity reactions in 200 subjects when tested as a 15% mixture in carbomer gel and in a cosmetic formulation. ([Cutaneous and Ocular Toxicology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19514921/))
- Topical sulfur alone or in combination demonstrates efficacy and rare mild adverse events in treating various dermatological disorders. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15303787/))
- Azelaic acid was probably less effective than benzoyl peroxide in acne treatment response, while showing little or no difference compared to tretinoin, and adverse events were mild and transient across evaluated topical treatments. ([Journal of Evidence-based Medicine, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33034949/))
- Topical application of precipitated sulphur 2-8% petrolatum achieved a 95% clinical and ectoparasitological cure rate in 40 ambulatory scabies patients without relevant adverse effects. ([Revista de Investigacion Clinica; Organo Del Hospital de Enfermedades de la Nutricion, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15776866/))
- Topical 10% benzoyl peroxide and 2%-5% sulfur cream achieved "good" to "excellent" results with no undesirable side effects in 113 consecutive patients with acne. ([Canadian Medical Association Journal, 1966](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/4223133/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))

## Why other cleansing masks fit acne-prone skin better

- A 30% supramolecular salicylic acid peel improved the global acne grading score and skin barrier indicators, decreased cutaneous microbiome richness and evenness along with Staphylococcus proportion, reduced inflammatory cytokines, and increased caveolin-1 expression in 28 patients with moderate-to-severe acne vulgaris. ([Dermatology and Therapy, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36350527/))
- 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 45% mandelic acid peel showed nearly equal overall efficacy as 30% salicylic acid peel in patients with mild-to-moderate facial acne vulgaris, but with fewer adverse effects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31553119/))

## What reviewers say

Based on limited data, this product is highly effective for acne-prone and oily skin, with users frequently noting its ability to clear breakouts and act as a spot treatment. It is also praised for absorbing excess oil and pores without over-drying the skin. A moderate number of users mention a strong, lingering sulfur smell, and a low number report potential for dryness with overuse or issues with the scent lingering on towels.

- Liked: Clears acne breakouts (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Effective spot treatment (often mentioned)
- Liked: Doesn't over-dry (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Reduces oil/pores (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong sulfur smell (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Lingers on towels (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Potential for dryness (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this cleansing mask during your PM weekly routine. Start 1x/week and increase if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply this cleansing mask after using your pre-cleanser and cleanser , and before your hydrating toner.
- Spread an even layer of the cleansing mask over your face , avoiding any rubbing to protect your skin.
- Apply the cleansing mask to clean and dry skin to help clear up your blemishes effectively.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6089f210022bdd96805c3bf12c9a44a3.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does ZO Complexion Clearing Masque work for acne-prone skin?

ZO Skin Health Complexion Clearing Masque works moderately well for your acne-prone skin, as sulfur and kaolin help clear pores and absorb excess oil for breakouts. This mask needs high-quality acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid and zinc oxide, along with balanced hydrating agents, to better treat blemishes while caring for both oily and dry areas.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41347526/)

### Which ingredients make this mask a good fit for acne-prone skin?

Sulfur, kaolin, and bentonite make this mask a good fit for acne-prone skin by clearing out pores and soaking up extra oil. To work even better for this skin type, a product of this kind needs powerful blemish-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid, zinc oxide, or niacinamide, alongside hydrating agents to keep dry areas balanced.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41347526/)

### What does Sulfur do for acne-prone skin?

Sulfur helps clear up acne-prone skin by reducing blemishes and calming irritation, with uncommon side effects mostly limited to mild skin dryness. It is a well-established choice for breakouts because it treats spots effectively while keeping your skin calm and smooth.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15303787/), [Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 1988](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2450900/)

### What does Kaolin Clay do for acne-prone skin?

Kaolin clay helps absorb excess oil and calms redness in acne-prone skin with a strong safety profile. Using a clay mask twice a week may improve acne and skin evenness while keeping dryness under control.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38009030/), [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39438324/)

### Where does this mask go in a skincare routine for acne-prone skin?

This mask goes in your weekly routine after a makeup remover, cleanser, and enzyme powder, and before a hydrating toner, treatment, and moisturizer. Products of this type for acne-prone skin need ingredients like sulfur and kaolin to clear pores and absorb excess oil, along with enough hydration to keep drier areas comfortable.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41347526/)

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

You can use this mask in your weekly routine, keeping it on separate days or times from your retinol to avoid irritation. Because sulfur and kaolin help absorb excess oil and clear pores, this type of product works best when paired with extra hydration and soothing ingredients to keep your skin balanced.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41347526/), [Cutaneous and Ocular Toxicology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19514921/)

### How often should I use this mask?

Use this cleansing mask once a week as part of your weekly routine, as it helps clear pores and absorb excess oil without harsh irritation. Products of this type for acne-prone skin need ingredients like sulfur and kaolin to clear breakouts while keeping skin balanced.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41347526/)

### Can this mask clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for acne-prone skin?

This mask is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts because its ingredients focus on clearing out pores and soaking up extra oil. To work best for acne-prone skin, a product of this type needs ingredients like sulfur and kaolin to clear blemishes alongside soothing hydrators to keep dry areas comfortable.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41347526/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (benzyl alcohol).

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [Goldfaden MD Facial Detox Clarify + Clear Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/goldfaden-md/facial-detox-mask/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $68.00 at Amazon
- [Revision Skincare Black Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/revision-skincare/black-mask/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — $79.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.97 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.50 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in United States has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Bentonite, Benzyl Alcohol, Caprylyl Glycol, Chlorphenesin, Ethylene Brassylate, Glycerin, Kaolin, Phenoxyethanol, Propylene Glycol, Silica, Sulfur, Talc, Tetrasodium Edta, Ultramarines
## 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/zo-skin-health/complexion-clearing-masque/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-clearing-masque/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-clearing-masque/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-clearing-masque/for/acne-prone-skin
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- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-clearing-masque/for/acne-prone-skin
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- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-clearing-masque/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-clearing-masque/for/acne-prone-skin