Learn how to use charcoal masks and say goodbye to clogged pores, dull skin and every skin condition imaginable as it is also suitable for all skin types.
While charcoal masks may have gone viral for being that one extremely painful black mask to pull off your face, it actually does wonders for your skin. It’s quite simple, if you’ve ever wondered how to use charcoal masks, and with ample benefits as it clears most of your blackheads in one go while detoxing your skin. Did you know that it works for dry and oily skin as well? Well, here’s a low-down on the benefits of using charcoal on your face.
Use of charcoal masks - the basics
A charcoal mask is the latest buzz in the world of beauty. These masks are known for detoxifying your skin and giving it a smoother and brighter appearance. With the rise in pollution levels and other environmental aggressors, pore-clogging has become a major skin concern. The impurities clog your pores which results in a dull complexion. If you learn how to use charcoal masks properly, it can unclog your pores, tighten them and give your skin a thorough cleansing. These masks also control the oil secretion in your skin, making it perfect for skin prone to blackheads and acne.
Benefits of charcoal masks for skincare
Brightens the skin
You have to bear the brunt of pollution, UV rays, dust, dead skin cells and your body’s natural oil secretion which end up accumulating on your face. This makes your face look dull. Charcoal masks come to your rescue as they can easily strip your face of all this grime, hydrate your skin and immediately brighten your face.
Deep cleanses pores
The very act of pulling the hardened mask off your face should clue you in - charcoal masks deep cleanse and purify your pores. Are you on the verge of pinching that one blackhead that’s annoying you for weeks? The mask reaches deep into your pores to clear any built-up dirt, oil or other common pollutants from it to give you glowing skin. This deep purification ensures that your pores stay healthy and tight so that blackheads don’t form in the first place.
Scrubs off dead skin cells
If the charcoal mask can root out stubborn blackheads, it can easily scrub off dead skin cells. If you figure out how to use charcoal masks the correct way, it can also double up as an exfoliator and even reduce your skincare routine time! The mask has a coarse texture that also pulls off dead skin cells and promotes blood circulation for healthy glowing skin.
Mattifies oily skin
The best part of a charcoal mask is that it works for all skin types. Dry skin? It hydrates and moisturises your face. Oily and blemish-prone skin? It gets rid of the excess oil on your face while also controlling the oil production. No more makeup melting off your face during the hot summers as a quick mask can easily mattify oily skin.
Treats acne
At times, acne leaves behind scars that are even more difficult to treat. But this hero ingredient will do the trick for you and get you the clear skin you dream of. Treating acne scars and blemishes just got easier, ladies! Charcoal face masks can rid your skin of acne-causing elements like excess sebum, clogged pores and dead skin buildup. If you know how to use charcoal peel-off masks correctly, it can also minimise the size of active pimples and dry them out while soothing inflammations and fading acne scars.
How does a charcoal mask really work?
Before we get to how to use charcoal-peel off masks, let’s take a look at how it actually works. Activated charcoal contains natural carbons like heated coal and coconut shells. It draws out bacteria, toxins, dirt and oil from the skin. If it’s a peel-off mask, it also works as an excellent exfoliator, ridding the skin of dead cells. The end result is skin that is clean and clear. When used as a powder, charcoal masks can reach deep in your pores and suck out impurities with them. They also come in the form of a sheet mask that you can place on your face.
Charcoal skincare products
Face wash
Apart from using a peel-off mask, there are also other types of charcoal skincare products like a face wash. The Ponds Pure Detox Anti-Pollution Purity Face Wash contains activated charcoal and is clinically proven to even your skin tone while balancing oily skin. Say goodbye to blemishes, acne, pollution as well as wrinkles as it deeply cleanses dull skin. Simply wash your face with it twice a day.
Face mask
Do you want to try a charcoal mask but worried about the pain? Opt for a pain-free experience with Ponds Pure Detox Mineral Clay Activated Charcoal Oil Free Glow Face Mask. It gives you all of the benefits of a peel-off mask minus the pain of ripping it off your face. It also contains manicouagan clay that absorbs impurities and excess oil while detoxing your skin. Just apply it to dry skin and leave it on for 10 minutes. Then rinse it off with water.
Exfoliating scrub
Do you like the process of exfoliating your face with a scrub? Bring back the calming routine with Ponds Pure Detox Face Gel Scrub. The activated charcoal and textured scrub removes dead skin cells, blackheads, sun tan, toxins and excess oil. It also contains vitamin E that strengthens the skin's barrier and vitamin B3 which is an antioxidant. It comes in the form of a soft gel making it perfect for those with sensitive skin. You can exfoliate with it twice a week.
DIY charcoal mask recipe
If you are up for a challenge, you can also make DIY charcoal masks at home by using activated charcoal. Get clear skin with a charcoal and bentonite clay mask. The clay contains potassium needed for glowing skin. Adding tea tree oil reduces blemishes and dark spots.
Mix two tablespoons of activated charcoal powder, four tablespoons of bentonite clay, a tablespoon of water and five drops of tea tree oil in a bowl.
Make sure the consistency is on the thicker side. Apply this mask on your face with a clean brush and let it dry.
Wipe it off with a wet towel and apply moisturiser.
Apply this mask at least once a week to get the desired results.
How to use charcoal mask
Let’s take a look at how to use charcoal peel-off masks and make the most of them.
Before applying a peel-off mask, wash your face with a mild cleanser to get rid of any surface pollutants and sweat.
Apply an even layer of the mask, leaving out your eye area and lips. Make sure to keep the application pressure gentle in order to avoid pulling on your skin.
Wait till the mask completely dries off and then slowly take it off. Do not keep for too long as charcoal masks can dry out your skin if left on for longer than required.
Rinse off the small bits off any charcoal mask thoroughly, make sure to not leave any residue behind.
Always follow up with a moisturiser for a plump and glowing complexion.
FAQs on how to use charcoal masks
Are there any risks with using a charcoal mask?
Generally, charcoal masks are considered pretty safe to use. But we recommend doing a patch test before using it, to make sure you are not allergic to it. Also, overdoing charcoal masks have been known to result in some skin dryness, redness, and sensitivity. So, make sure to follow the instructions for using a charcoal mask precisely.
Is charcoal mask good for dry skin?
Most charcoal masks help in hydrating the skin. If you have extremely dry skin, make sure to DIY your charcoal mask by adding hydrating ingredients like vitamin E oil in the mixture. This will ensure that your mask is not overly drying your face.
Does a charcoal mask remove facial hair?
Yes, peel-off charcoal masks are capable of sticking to fine hair on your face and removing it from the roots. However, it is not recommended to use peel-off charcoal masks for hair removal alone.
It not only helps detoxify your skin but also gives it a brighter and smoother appearance. So pamper your skin by learning how to use charcoal masks as this will rejuvenate your skin leaving you with a radiant glow.
Written by Lopa K on Sep 20, 2022