Egg White Pore Mask
Egg White Pore Mask
Product Description
Product overview
A pore-refining wash-off mask powered by egg white (albumen) extract, bentonite, and kaolin clays that deeply cleanses pores, absorbs excess sebum, and leaves skin feeling smooth, tight, and refreshed. A K-Beauty cult favorite since 2003.
Egg White (Albumen) Extract
Rich in proteins and amino acids, albumen deeply penetrates pores to remove sebum and tighten skin for a visibly refined look.
Texture & feel
SENSORYEgg White (Albumen) Extract
Rich in proteins and amino acids, albumen deeply penetrates pores to remove sebum and tighten skin for a visibly refined look.
Dual Clay System
Bentonite and kaolin clays work together to absorb excess oil, draw out impurities, and mattify without over-drying the skin.
Hydrating Balance
Glycerin, panthenol, and olive oil prevent the tightness and dryness common with clay masks, keeping skin comfortable post-use.
Soothing Licorice
Dipotassium glycyrrhizate (licorice root derivative) calms inflammation and helps even out skin tone after deep cleansing.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. Contains fragrance and linalool which some practitioners advise avoiding during pregnancy. Consult your doctor.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains multiple triggers including polysorbate 60, caprylic/capric triglyceride, palmitic acid, stearic acid, and olive oil.
Low-to-moderate clogging risk. As a wash-off product with 10–15 min contact time, comedogenic risk is significantly reduced compared to leave-on formulas.
Free from parabens, sulfates (SLS/SLES), silicones, and common allergens. No harsh alcohols (cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, not drying).
Contains albumen (egg white) extract. Do not use if you have an egg allergy. Patch test recommended for sensitive skin.
Includes synthetic fragrance and linalool (an EU allergen). Those with fragrance sensitivities should patch test first.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAlbumen Extract (Egg White) High (2nd listed)Proven
The star ingredient. Albumen is a natural protein from egg whites packed with amino acids, niacin (Vitamin B3), riboflavin (Vitamin B2), selenium, and minerals. It acts as a natural astringent that tightens pores and removes pore-clogging impurities.
- Function: Pore-tightening, deep cleansing, film-forming for a smooth finish
- Nutrients: Contains niacinamide, amino acids, calcium, phosphorus, and potassium
- Mechanism: Forms a protein film on skin that contracts as it dries, temporarily reducing pore appearance
Bentonite Clay 5th listedProven
A highly absorbent natural clay with a negative ionic charge that attracts positively charged toxins, bacteria, and excess oil from deep within pores.
- Absorption: Superior oil-absorbing capacity; draws out sebum, dirt, and impurities from pores
- Research: Studies show antibacterial and detoxifying effects; may help soothe skin conditions like eczema
- Synergy: Works with kaolin for a dual-clay system that balances deep cleansing without excessive drying
Kaolin Clay 8th listedProven
A fine, white, gentle clay that absorbs oil and provides mild exfoliation. Less aggressive than bentonite, making it ideal for sensitive skin types.
- Gentleness: Less absorbent and less drying than bentonite, ideal for combination skin
- Properties: Oil-absorbing, mattifying, and mildly exfoliating with abrasive microparticles
- Comedogenic: Rating 0 — will not clog pores
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) 25th listedProven
A well-studied humectant and skin-calming agent that prevents the dryness and tightness typically associated with clay masks.
- Hydration: Attracts and retains moisture in the skin, counteracting clay-induced dryness
- Healing: Supports skin barrier repair and reduces irritation and redness
- Safety: Extremely well-tolerated by all skin types including sensitive skin
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (Licorice) 27th listedProven
Derived from licorice root, this anti-inflammatory ingredient soothes irritation and has mild skin-brightening properties.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Calms redness and irritation from clay-based deep cleansing
- Brightening: Helps inhibit melanin production for a more even-toned complexion
29 ingredients
Water, Albumen Extract, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Glycerin, Bentonite, Cetearyl Alcohol, Alcohol Denat, Kaolin, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Butylene Glycol, Silica, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Polyvinyl Alcohol, Polysorbate 60, PVP, 1,2-Hexanediol, Potassium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sorbitan Stearate, Panthenol, Disodium EDTA, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Fragrance, Linalool.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse 1–3 times per week after cleansing. Apply on dry skin, leave 10–15 minutes, rinse with lukewarm water, then continue with your toner and skincare routine. Best used in the evening.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with clean, dry skin. Use your regular cleanser and pat your face dry with a towel before applying the mask.
Apply an Even Layer
Scoop a moderate amount and spread evenly across your entire face. Avoid the eye and lip areas. Focus extra on the T-zone and areas with visible pores.
Wait 10–15 Minutes
Let the mask dry and work its magic. You will feel a gentle tightening sensation as the egg white and clays draw out impurities. The creamy texture transitions to a powdery finish.
Rinse Thoroughly
Wash off with lukewarm water, massaging gently in circular motions. Ensure all residue is removed. Follow with your toner, serum, and moisturizer.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have enlarged or visible pores you want to minimize
- Your skin is oily and you need sebum control
- You want a gentler alternative to harsh clay masks
- You want an affordable K-Beauty pore treatment
- You enjoy wash-off masks with a tightening effect
- You want blackhead prevention and smoother texture
Consider alternatives if:
- You have an egg allergy (contains albumen extract)
- You have fungal acne / malassezia folliculitis
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin
- You are highly sensitive to fragrance or linalool
- You need a completely fragrance-free product
- You want a chemical exfoliant (AHA/BHA) instead of physical
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESAbsorbs excess sebum beautifully with dual clays. Leaves skin matte and smooth without over-stripping. Ideal 2–3 times per week.
Great for targeting the T-zone while glycerin and panthenol keep drier areas comfortable. Use 1–2 times per week.
Works well as a weekly deep-cleansing treatment to maintain clear, refined pores. Not essential for daily use.
Clay can be drying for already-dry skin. Use sparingly (once per week max) and follow with a rich moisturizer immediately after.
Contains fragrance and linalool which may irritate sensitive skin. Patch test first. Some users with sensitive skin report good results.
Helps control sebum and clear pores. Low comedogenic rating (2/5). Not fungal acne safe, but effective for bacterial acne prevention.
Results timeline
6+ WEEKSInstant Pore Tightening & Smooth Skin
Immediately after rinsing, skin feels noticeably smoother, softer, and pores appear temporarily smaller. Excess oil is absorbed and skin has a matte, fresh glow.
85% noticed instant smoothnessReduced Oiliness & Fewer Blackheads
With consistent use (2–3 times per week), overall oiliness decreases, blackheads become less visible, and skin texture starts improving noticeably.
70% reported less oil and fewer blackheadsVisibly Smaller Pores & Clearer Skin
Regular use leads to sustained pore minimization, smoother texture, and a brighter complexion. Many users report that pores appear significantly smaller.
65% saw sustained pore improvementLong-Term Skin Refinement
Continued use maintains results. Best paired with a complete pore-care routine including gentle cleansing and regular exfoliation for lasting benefits.
60% considered it a permanent stapleRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Instantly smooths and tightens pores after first use
- Very affordable for a K-Beauty clay mask (~$11)
- Creamy texture that is easy to apply and not overly drying
- Absorbs excess oil effectively without stripping skin
- Pleasant, clean scent (not egg-like at all)
- A little goes a long way — one tub lasts months
- Paraben-free, sulfate-free, silicone-free formula
- Reduces blackhead appearance with regular use
Criticized
- Not fungal acne safe (contains multiple FA triggers)
- Contains fragrance and linalool — not for fragrance-sensitive skin
- Pore-tightening effect is mostly temporary, not permanent
- Can be slightly difficult to rinse off completely
- Not ideal for very dry skin — may feel tight after use
- Contains alcohol denat which may concern some users
- Not suitable for egg allergy sufferers
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESUses kaolin clay + red bean extract instead of egg white + bentonite. Fragrance-free, vegan-friendly, and gentler on sensitive skin. Slightly less tightening effect but equally good at sebum control. 140ml vs 125g.
Fragrance-free, 3-minute quick application. Uses mung bean instead of egg white. Gentler but less intense pore-tightening. Better for sensitive and fungal acne-prone skin. 120ml size.
Uses chemical exfoliation (BHA) instead of clay absorption. Better for active acne and deeper pore cleaning. Stronger formula with charcoal — not for sensitive skin. 50ml tube is smaller. Not pregnancy safe.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Can be refrigerated for a cooling effect during application.
Tub with screw-top lid and inner plastic seal. Some batches may come in a squeeze tube. Hygienic, easy-to-use design.
Yes — 125g is well under the 100ml/3.4oz carry-on limit for most airlines. Compact and leak-proof packaging.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. The formula does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — the main ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. However, it does contain synthetic fragrance and linalool, which some healthcare professionals advise minimizing during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use.
No, this mask is not fungal acne safe. It contains multiple ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including polysorbate 60, caprylic/capric triglyceride, palmitic acid, stearic acid, olea europaea (olive) fruit oil, and sorbitan stearate. If you have fungal acne, consider the beplain Mung Bean Pore Clay Mask as a fragrance-free, simpler alternative.
Yes, but not simultaneously. Since this is a wash-off mask, it is generally safe to use in the same routine as retinol, vitamin C, or AHA/BHA — just apply actives after rinsing the mask off and applying toner. Avoid using the mask immediately after a strong chemical peel or on days when you use potent retinoids, as the clay can increase skin sensitivity. Space treatments apart for best results.
This mask is best suited for oily and combination skin types. The dual clay system (bentonite + kaolin) excels at absorbing excess sebum and tightening pores. Normal skin can also benefit from weekly use. Dry and sensitive skin types should use sparingly (once per week max) and always follow with a hydrating moisturizer. Patch test if you have fragrance sensitivity.
Most users see immediate results after the first use — smoother skin, temporarily tighter pores, and reduced oiliness. For sustained pore refinement and reduced blackheads, consistent use for 2–4 weeks (2–3 times per week) is needed. Keep in mind that pore-tightening effects from this mask are primarily temporary and cosmetic; long-term results require ongoing use.
Apply after cleansing, on clean dry skin. It is a treatment step that replaces your regular mask slot (Step 2 in the routine). After rinsing off with lukewarm water, continue with your toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). Best used in the evening, 1–3 times per week depending on your skin type.
The overall comedogenic rating is 2/5 (low-to-moderate). It contains some potentially comedogenic ingredients like olive oil and cetearyl alcohol, but because this is a wash-off product with only 10–15 minutes of skin contact, the actual clogging risk is very low. The clay ingredients actively unclog pores rather than block them. Users with acne-prone skin generally report improved (not worsened) skin.
The PAO (Period After Opening) is 12 months. The 125g tub typically lasts 2–4 months with regular use (2–3 times per week), as a little product goes a long way. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If the texture, color, or smell changes, discard and replace.
Verdict: The SKINFOOD Egg White Pore Mask is an excellent value K-Beauty pore treatment that delivers visible, immediate results. The egg white and dual-clay formula genuinely tightens pores, absorbs oil, and smooths skin texture — all at a very affordable $11 price point. It earns high marks for efficacy and value, with slight deductions for containing fragrance, not being fungal acne safe, and offering primarily temporary (not permanent) pore reduction. If you have oily or combination skin and visible pores, this is one of the best budget-friendly options available.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Titanium Dioxide
Uv Absorber, Sunscreen Agent, Opacifying, Cosmetic Colorant, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Bentonite
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Absorbent, Bulking Agent, Opacifying, Suspending Agent -Nonsurfactant
|
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