Skin feeling - and looking - a little bit meh? Ours, too. We've drank copious amounts of wine (and Bailey's, and gin, and cocktails) and eaten cheese as if it were its own food group. And yes, we will be continuing to do so up until the New Year.
It's all well and good until you catch sight of your skin (dull, a bit congested and in need of some TLC) in the mirror. It's when the voice of every YouTube skincare video rings throughout your ears: "just drink water!". You scoffed then, but with hindsight, you realise that the advice was probably a good idea...
This is where a clay mask comes into its own. Gone are the days when clay masks would be harsh and tightening: these new gen clay masks brighten, purify and even hydrate, all at once. Clay is the superstar ingredient for how it draws out and absorbs excess oil, helping skin look - and feel - considerably brighter and clearer.
That's right: a good clay mask might just be the product to get your skin back on good form. Scroll on down for Grazia's edit of all the best.
Shop Now: The Best Clay Masks to Detox and Purify
SHOP NOW: Best Clay Masks
1 of 7Glossier Mega Greens Galaxy Pack, £18
As the name suggests, this is like a green juice for your skin. Some (especially those who are prone to sensitivity) might experience a tingle, which isn't uncomfortable, but more an indication of the clay getting to work. It has 8 vitamin-rich fruit extracts too, that give some antioxidant protection (adios, dull, polluted skin).
2 of 7Charlotte Tilbury Goddess Skin Clay Mask, £38
Charlotte Tilbury is more of a make-up authority than a skincare one, so we'd understand if you were skeptical on this mask. But it really is great: whilst the clay gets to work absorbing oil and detoxing pores, almond and rosehip oil give the formula a hydrating quality, so skin feels soft and hydrated after use. It doesn't have the 'oomph' detox powers of a mask like Caudalie's, but this one does leave skin feeling conditioned.
3 of 7Paula's Choice Clear Purifying Face Mask, £29
In Paula's Choice we trust. Acne or oily-prone skin will benefit from this mask most. Whilst it has three types of clay to draw out oil from the pore, you'll also find green tea in the formula, which has been shown to soothe skin.
4 of 7Caudalie Instant Detox Mask, £23
Consider Caudalie's clay mask one of the most gentle in our roundup. The pink clay lightens on the face as dries down and absorbs oil, so you can really see it get to work. Despite its hardworking nature, you'll find skin feels comfortable and refreshed after use.
5 of 7Sand and Sky Purifying Pink Clay Mask, £36.75
This clay mask broke the internet when it launched, although in this rare case, the clamour can be justified. It's equal part detoxifying, equal part soothing, with a base of aloe vera and Australian pink clay. The dinky paintbrush also makes light work of application (no clay hands here).
6 of 7Omorovicza Ultramoor Mud Mask, £72
The most luxe mask on our list, the texture here is thick, creamy, and it applies like a dream. The ingredients are worthy of high praise, too: the Hungarian mud is rich in calcium and magnesium for a thorough pore cleanse. Skin feels softer and looks brighter after one use.
7 of 7Plenaire Tripler 3-in-1 Exfoliating Clay, £18
A triple threat. This 3-in-1 mask is unassumingly brilliant: apply a layer to clean skin to let the French clay get to work detoxifying. After 10 minutes, wet the clay and watch it emulsify. Cleanse the face and watch the blackcurrant seed particles gently buff away dead skin cells. The dual exfoliation process means dull, congested skin stands no chance.
READ MORE: 15 Face Masks Worth Investing In For That Mythical Moment Of 'Me' Time
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