Maybe you might have seen this seemingly strange masking trend on Instagram a while back, or stumble upon them during your online shopping sprees. It could be the unique bubbling foam that makes for a good selfie, or that this unconventional mask technique actually does benefit our skin. Whatever the case may be, bubble masks might just be here to stay for the foreseeable future.
The Science Behind Bubble Masking
This new phenomena in facial masking originated from South Korea a few years ago and has subsequently taken the world by storm. Bubble masks are similar to the conventional facial masks in that they provide skin-beneficial effects. The only difference is that a bubble mask utilizes oxygenation to create that neat bubbling trick. Dissolved oxygen gas is pumped into the mask at high pressure so that the mask is intensely saturated with this life-giving substance. Once the mask is applied onto the skin, this trapped oxygen gas then effervescences into a fluffy, cloud-like layer which contains thousands of airy bubbles.
Marketing Gimmick or Not?
While the bubbly mask might seem too cool to not buy, some skeptics might assume this product is just another marketing gimmick that doesn’t actually benefit your skin. Before you cast all your doubts on this intriguing product, let’s review what goes into it. As mentioned earlier, the bubble mask is chock full of oxygen gas, a substance that has numerous skin benefits. Firstly, sufficient oxygen supply to the skin promotes collagen production which is a key component for plumping up the skin to fight off early signs of aging such as fine lines, dullness, dryness, and the loss of skin elasticity. In addition, oxygen effectively fights off acne-causing bacteria given that this bacteria strain thrives in an oxygen-less environment. Moreover, oxygen also helps to speed up the healing process for wounds which makes it a vital weapon in combating scarring and hyperpigmentation issues that are leftover from previous acne breakouts.
Of course, the effectiveness of a bubble mask still isn’t comparable to that of an oxygen facial treatment done by a professional facialist. The conditions used to create both facial types are vastly different. But while the bubble mask might not be able to fully replicate the effects of an oxygen facial treatment, it’s bubbling action coupled with other skin-nourishing ingredients in the mask means that your skin will still benefit from using a bubble mask. As such, bubble masks are more than just a marketing gimmick to entice you to splurge more on this month’s beauty buys.
With that said, we have reviewed the 15 best bubble masks that are worth a try, even if it is just to update your Instagram with a cool selfie post.
Reviews of the 15 Top Bubble Masks
e.l.f. Cosmetics Hydrating Bubble Mask
This hydrating bubble mask is the answer to those with dry and sensitive skin. The smooth and refreshing gel mask fizzes into a thick layer of foamy bubbles that might feel a little ticklish on your face. The bubbles clean out your pores effectively. In fact, you can see how much dirt and gunk comes out when you wipe off the mask with a clean cotton pad. However, do note that you will need to apply the mask on damp skin in order for the bubbling effect to take place.
Elizavecca Milky Piggy Carbonated Bubble Clay Mask
This adorable Korean mask is a cult favorite among users for its powerful blackhead-removing effect. The clay-based nature of this mask makes it highly effective in removing dirt and absorbing excess oil from your skin. You will be happy to know that this mask is packed with skin-nourishing ingredients such as Green Tea, Pomegranate Extract, and Collagen to give you glowing skin. Users raved about the reduction and disappearance of their blackheads after a couple of uses with this miraculous product. Side note: be prepared to look like a Bubble Monster as this mask will coat every inch of your face in a thick, grey foam.
Elizabeth Mott One Bad Motha’Foamer Carbonated Bubble Clay Mask
This bubble mask might sound cheeky, but it definitely delivers what it promises. Infused with pore-cleansing natural clay and activated charcoal, this mask is the detox that your face is looking for. The carbonated bubbles also make for a tingling effect to show that the mask is hard at work. The end result is a soft, smooth, and radiant complexion. An added benefit is its substantial amount which will last you for quite a while, making it a value-for-money purchase.
bliss Triple Oxygen Instant Foaming Mask with CPR Technology
This bubble mask is best suited for those with acne problems. Formulated with an ingenious CPR Technology and Vitamin C, it brightens up scars while preventing acne-causing bacteria from taking root in your pores. Its quick foaming action cleans out dirt and makeup residue for a purified complexion. The pleasant-looking pink gel effervescences into tiny bubbles upon contact with water. These bubbles fizz out completely within a span of five minutes so that you can wash off the mask with ease. Use this if you want to restore your skin back to its original, healthy state.
Imagine Dermatology Bubbling Charcoal Clay Mask
If you are on the lookout for a charcoal mask to help with those pesky blackheads and excess sebum, this one is up your alley. Once pumped out from the bottle, the creamy mask transforms into a dense foam that feels like a luxurious bubble bath on your face. The bubbles penetrate deeply into the pores to work its cleansing magic. The mask is also infused with natural botanical extracts and minerals to hydrate and soften your skin for a healthier-looking complexion. Contenders of the product have seen a positive improvement in their skin condition after consistent usage. This is perfect for those with oily or combination skin.
Freeman Apple Cider Vinegar 4-in-1 Foaming Clay Mask and Scrub
The Saem Gem Miracle Black Pearl O2 Bubble Mask
Infused with skin-brightening Black Pearl extract, this oxygenated mask helps to purify and shrink enlarged pores to perfect a flawless complexion. The pearly-grey gel transforms into a foam when applied on your face which then fizzes so that you know the mask is extracting all the impurities from your skin. With the addition of AHA, BHA, and Papaya Extract, this mask gently exfoliates and removes dead skin cells to reveal a glowing and youthful complexion. Because it is formulated without parabens, mineral oil, or artificial fragrances, this mask is suitable for sensitive skin types.
philosophy The Microdelivery Detoxifying Oxygen Peel
This brand has also come up with its own version of a bubble mask in the form of an innovative two-step peel. Step 1 detoxifies your skin by using Activated Charcoal to draw out dirt and impurities from your pores. Step 2 then completes the re-ox process by using bubbling oxygen to stimulate blood circulation and collagen production for radiant, healthy skin. This two-step mask treatment is easy to use and has yielded great results for most users. Fans of this product saw a reduction in their whiteheads and blackheads, smoother skin texture, and lesser acne flare-ups. Given the gentle nature of the gel which causes minimal tingling on the skin, this bubble mask is suitable for acne-prone and sensitive skin types.
M-61 PowerBlast
Otherwise known as the 1-minute pore-refining mask, this holy grail item is the answer to all your skincare prayers. Containing Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid to penetrate the pores deeply, this mask gently exfoliates and clarifies your skin for a more radiant and smoother complexion. It’s perfect for eliminating stubborn closed comedones. The addition of Vitamin K speeds up the wound healing process by reducing redness and scarring that are caused by zits and cysts. To keep your skin calm and happy, this mask also has soothing ingredients like Bilberry Extract, Chamomile, and Lavender. Keep this secret weapon in your vanity on days when you feel like your skin can use an extra boost.
Caolion Premium Blackhead O2 Bubble Pore Pack
Suitable for all skin types, this mask is infused with 100% Natural Sparkling Water and Charcoal Powder to whisk away accumulated dirt and oil from your skin. It foams up super fast so that the micro oxygen bubbles reach deep into your pores for a complete cleansing. This mask actually acts as a scrub too due to the added Natural Oat Grains. The small beads provided enhance its exfoliation effect so that your skin is well-cleansed. Oat is also great at replenishing your skin’s natural moisture levels to keep it hydrated and supple. Users loved how the mask revitalizes their skin with a soft and glowing texture.
Clinique Pep-Start Double Bubble Purifying Mask
A fast-acting gel mask that bubbles up instantly upon contact with your skin. The bubbly foam lifts up pore-clogging dirt, residue, and sebum to cleanse your skin thoroughly. After using it, your skin feels purified and refreshed. This mask is formulated without parabens, fragrance, and oil. It has also been allergy and dermatologist tested which means it is unlikely to cause skin irritation. Sensitive skin users even commented on how well their skin tolerated this gentle mask and did not experience any burning or extreme dryness after usage.
Peter Thomas Roth Brightening Bubbling Mask
This luxurious mask is well worth its extravagant price tag. Designed specially for boosting your skin’s radiance, this mask is formulated with a potent blend of skin brighteners: SYMWHITE™, GIGAWHITE™, Glucosamine, and Potent Tyrosinase inhibitors which work in tandem with the natural botanical brighteners like Bearberry, Mulberry, Licorice, and Vitamin C. This extraordinarily potent blend evens out skin tone and UV-induced pigmentation for enhanced clarity and smoothness. It also promotes anti-aging with the added FIFLOW® which provides increased oxygen supply to your skin in order to stimulate collagen production so that fine lines and wrinkles are diminished. To round it all up, the mask is further fortified with the moisture-intense Mango Extract and Vitamin E which keeps your skin hydrated. Do note that a small amount of the mask goes a long way so one bottle of this will last you for some time.
MS.Dear Carbonated Bubble Clay Mask
If you are on a shoestring budget, this affordable yet high-performing mask will maximize your dollar. The fast-acting mask bubbles up into a grey layer of dense foam that cleanses your pores to get rid of pore-clogging impurities and oil grit for an smoother skin texture. This mask also contains Activated Charcoal to stimulate collagen production in order to plump up your skin cells and fight off early signs of aging. As such, it is ideal for dull and mature skin types. In fact, a reviewer, in particular, mentioned that the religious use of this mask twice a week has greatly diminished the fine lines on her forehead.
Laboratoires Filorga Scrub & Mask Exfoliating Bubble Mask
This innovative mask has a dual effect on your skin as it doubles up as a skin-renewal scrub too. To reap the full benefits of it, massage a small amount of the mask on your skin. Doing so will unleash the full exfoliating power of its Perlite Spheres while the Proteolitic Enzyme sloughs off dry skin flakes and dead cells to reveal a smoother and more radiant skin tone. Next, leave on the scrub for a few minutes as the mask transforms into thousands of micro bubbles that provide ample oxygen for your cells. The result is a clarified and youthful-looking complexion which allows other skincare products to penetrate more easily.
As we can see, there is a wide array of bubble masks that target every skin concern you can possibly think of - acne, oiliness, dryness, dullness, and mature skin. It’s time to find the right bubble mask for your skin so that you can join in on the bubbly fun.
Wrap Up
Whether it is a beauty fad or not, bubble masks do live up to their name of improving your skin complexion with the special oxygenation process. Coupled with the addition of other skin-rejuvenating ingredients, you will indeed see positive results with a bubble mask, akin to that of a conventional facial mask. To help you enjoy bubble masking, make sure that you are lying down so that the bubbles don’t slide down and irritate your eyes, nose or mouth.