new
Expert Session
Inside the Formula: Refining Mask
August 09, 2025
Photos by: Shelby Goldstein
Why is refinement important for healthy-looking skin?
To “refine” the skin means improving its overall appearance by removing dead skin cells, unclogging pores, and helping stimulate collagen production. This ultimately reveals smoother, more radiant, and healthier-looking skin. Also, our skin is a living organ, which is constantly shedding and creating new layers. Organisms moving throughout the layers make up our barrier function, which needs to be cared for by cleansing, moisturizing, and using targeted treatments like Refining Mask.
How is this mask different from a traditional clay mask?
Our Refining Mask is a completely new technology when it comes to skin refinement. This product is very sensorial, from the beautiful blue hue, to the aromatherapy Blue Tansy fragrance, to the bouncy whipped texture, to the result of skin feeling smoother and looking brighter. While the concentrated mask creates a sensorial experience, it’s also hard at work gently removing dead skin cells, helping to unclog and reduce pores, and leaving skin feeling hydrated for a more youthful look. Typically, clay masks are also associated with refinement, but have a completely different performance on the skin. Clay masks are heavier in texture and viscosity, which can be potentially drying and cause irritation.
What typically causes enlarged pores—and can their appearance actually be reduced?
There are a number of factors that can lead to enlarged pores, including genetics, excess oil production, aging, loss of elasticity, sun damage, acne, and clogged pores. The best way to address enlarged pores is based on the root cause—for example, excess oil production should be managed with consistently cleansing and targeted treatments. Our new Refining Mask does a great job of helping detox the skin and visibly reducing the appearance of pores with its Mineral-Rich Deep-Sea Water.
How often should I use Refining Mask? And how should I adjust if I have sensitive skin?
We recommend using Refining Mask once a week. However, if you have very oily skin or enlarged pores and want more noticeable results, you can use it up to twice a week. For sensitive skin, try leaving the mask on for five minutes instead of ten to start. The formula is gentle enough for sensitive skin types, but it’s always a good idea to patch test first to see how your skin responds.
What’s the difference between this formula and Oak’s Restorative Mask? How can I use both in a weekly routine?
Refining Mask is all about leaving your skin feeling clean, light, and refreshed—with a visibly refined texture and minimized pores. It’s the perfect prep step before layering on a moisturizer. On the other hand, Restorative Mask is all about leaving skin incredibly hydrated and soft, with no need to apply anything on top.
What’s unique about Mineral-Rich Deep-Sea Water as an active ingredient?
Minerals are naturally occurring elements that support essential cellular function, protection, and repair. The Mineral-Rich Deep-Sea Water in Refining Mask helps to detoxify the skin by drawing out impurities, visibly reducing the size and number of pores, and delivering lightweight hydration. The result is skin that feels replenished and refreshed. It’s the same concept as visiting a natural hot spring—depending on which minerals you soak in, your skin receives different restorative benefits from exposure.
What does Blue Tansy contribute to the formula—beyond just its beautiful blue color?
Blue Tansy is an antioxidant, so it helps to prevent and slow cell damage, calm inflammation, and soothe the skin. Anyone experiencing a skin flare up or redness may benefit from this calming and balancing ingredient.
What about Ceramides and B-Vitamin Complex? What role do they play?
Ceramides and the B-Vitamin Complex in this formula work together to support the skin barrier and promote a healthy, even complexion. The B-Vitamin Complex—consisting of B12, B3 (Niacinamide), and B5 (Panthenol)—helps to soothe sensitive skin while supporting collagen production and natural moisture balance. Ceramides, which are naturally present in the skin, are lipids (or fats) that help hold skin cells together. They’re key for improving dryness, reinforcing the skin barrier, and protecting against environmental stressors.
