The winner is…

Origins Clear Improvement Mask was on my Sephora Family and Friends Wishlist in Novemember of 2011, and I ended up purchasing it.  I’ve been using it once per week as suggested.  I love it!  Since I loved it so much, I’ve even given my sister and husband a facial using it.

“Activated charcoal acts like a magnet to draw out deep-dwelling pore-cloggers. White China clay absorbs environmental toxins, and lecithin dissolves impurities. Without all that stuff down there, skin breathes a sigh of relief. Best for all skin types. “– Sephora

Clear Improvement™ Active Charcoal Mask To Clear Pores

What it is:
A mask with activated charcoal to draw out deep-dwelling pore-cloggers.

What it is formulated to do:
When environmental toxins, dirt, and debris get under your skin, its waste-filtering system gets jammed, pores get clogged, and skin looks cloudy. Nature’s complexion clean-up crew gets to the bottom of skin’s overcast condition and clears the way for it to act its best.

 
What it is formulated WITHOUT:
– Parabens
– Sulfates
– Synthetic Fragrances
– Synthetic Dyes
– Petrochemicals
– Phthalates
– GMOs
– Triclosan

My Thoughts:

This was my first charcoal mask.  I’ve wanted to try this one in particular due to the rave reviews, and the benefits of using it.  I have trouble with breakouts on my forehead.  I’m also oily in my t-zone.  This was the perfect product for me.  Normally, I  like to start using new products on a Sunday, so I waited until then to use it.  I used it once per week as suggested since November, and I couldn’t be happier. 

The recommended usage is to open your pores with a warm towel, then apply the product.  I tried it this way at first, then I decided to use my Clarisonic first to cleanse my face & open my pores, then apply the mask.  I noticed better results by doing it my way.  My skin felt a lot smoother and looked brighter.  I didn’t notice a difference in the size of my pores, as I don’t have large pores anyway.  Also, my skin felt refreshed, and I didn’t experience any dryness.

Once the mask is on, you can feel it tightening and a tiny bit of tingling.   I did not feel a burning sensation as others have mentioned.  The tightening inhibits your ability to talk, eat etc.  Usually, with a mask that dries like this, I’d experience a powdery fall-out, but, with this one I did not. After the ten-15 minute waiting period, I either used a warm rag to wipe it off or hopped into the shower to get it off as I showered.

You would think that since the product contained charcoal, it would feel grimy and gritty, it did not.  The consistency of the product reminded me of a thicker version of Elmer’s glue but without the stickiness ixed with pudding.  I’ve read about the product staining people’s clothing or wash rags, I had no experience with this.  If you are really worried about getting messy while using this, I suggest using an old foundation brush to apply it.

Would I recommend?

I would definitely recommend this product if you’re looking for something to detoxify your and brighten your skin, help with acne and oil.  It’s worth the price ($22/3.4 oz), and it will definitely last you a while. I’ve had mine for three months, and the tube is practically full.  I would suggest using only a nickel sized amount to cover your face. 

Since I had a good experience with this, I decided to try Belle Butters Neutralizing Butter for Oily Skin, which has charcoal.  You can peep my preliminary review here.

Where to buy
 

Origins Active Charcoal Mask

Have you tried any charcoal products or this product? How did you like it?

Disclosure:  I purchased this item with my own money.  This is my honest opinion/review.