Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

(Corrected Nov. 2019 in response to Dazza, who pointed out - correctly - that the ingredients in this mask are split between two sections of the label. ) Let me stipulate up front that we use a lot of Cetaphil products in our house (as well as Cerave, which is quite similar). Second, this is an excellent mask. It will leave most people's skin tightened and freshened. A very light, absorbent moisturizer immediately following will help keep it that way. Bentonite clays (there are a few different types) are often used in premium clay masks. They are super absorbent and form a jelly-like texture when hydrated. A lot of the purported health benefits of clay masks are attributed to Bentonite because of its ability to attract and absorb certain charged ions from the skin ("toxins"). Bentonite typically makes up a small portion of the clay mixture in a mask because its texture when hydrated doesn't lend itself to staying on your face. Other clays like Kaolin provide the clingy texture needed. The combination of bentonite and finely ground additional clays yields a luxurious texture quite unlike coarser mud clays. All good, but what about the Cetaphil mask? Unfortunately, Bentonite is a somewhat imprecise term. Some regard any sedimentary clay with 70% or more smectites as Bentonite. Others regard only montmorillonite clays derived from volcanic ash as true Bentonite. So there may be some marketing art going on here with the mask. It would be better if the mineral were specified. In addition to Kaolin and Bentonite, the label lists Aluminum Magnesium Silicate. Also known as Veegum, Aluminum Magnesium Silicate, like Bentonite, is a smectite clay with similar hydration properties - but without "true" Bentonite's other properties. Veegum is used in the cosmetics industry primarily as a thickener. My mask of choice? Finely-ground Bentonite and Kaolin dry clays (I have roughly 5 pounds of each in my master bath), mixed with water and a bit of lemon juice. The Cetaphil mask texture and effects are about the same (which is good). The Cetaphil substitutes different acids for brightening. And it keeps ... mine has to be mixed as needed, as it doesn't keep well. Now, is the Cetaphil as good as my own Bentonite mask? Well, that depends on what you value. Cost? Mine wins overwhelmingly. Consistency, batch-to-batch? Cetaphil, hands-down. Convenience? Cetaphil. Purity? Hmmm, there may be a longer discussion there. I do like the simplicity of mine, though, and there are no additives of any type. And the health benefits of "true" Bentonite may be referenced in scientific terms but in reality are more marketing (or even religious). Bottom line: The Cetaphil Pro Dermacontrol mask is very, very good, with results comparable to a hand-mixed mask made with premium clays and other fresh ingredients. It's an excellent choice in commercial clay masks.