Review: Origin's Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask

Formulated with active charcoal, this mask promises, by virtue of that same active charcoal, to vacuum out pores to de-clog them.  White China absorbs environmental toxins, and lecithin dissolves impurities.

The mask itself is a dark grey color with a smooth consistency that takes on on a gel like cream.  Formulated without parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, synthetic dyes, petrochemicals, phthalates, GMOs, and triclosan, this product is good for all skin types and is one of Origins' top sellers.

To use this product, place a warm towel onto your face.  This assists with opening the pores in order to allow the mask to vacuum out dirt and toxins most effectively.  Apply the mask to your face and rinse off after 10 minutes.  

My face felt very clean after I rinsed the mask off my face.  I took particular notice of the fact that the area around my nose felt much smoother, which is indicative that my pores were de-clogged.  However, I had small bumps on my chin that did not go away, and a closer inspection of my nose showed that blackheads were still present.  In terms of hydration, my skin felt a bit on the tight side.  I have normal to combination skin so the fact that my skin was left a bit tight from the mask indicates that this product is a bit drying.  Josie Maran's argan oil instantly fixed this.

The product is affordable at $24 for 3.4 fl oz. 

Truth be told, I've been looking for a more affordable alternative but equally as effective to GlamGlow's Super Mud.  If you recall in this POST, I was absolutely in love with Super Mud after but one use.  At about $70 for 1.2 oz, however, my wallet is advising me to seek a mistress.  I cannot help but remember how effective GlamGlow's charcoal mask was even after a night's sleep - my skin continued to feel smooth and soft like a baby's bum the morning after.  This is in contrast with Origins' mask.  Moreover, GlamGlow's charcoal mask did not leave my skin as dry and tight as Origin's charcoal mask.  Quite frankly, it is also downright mesmerizing, in a weird way, to see the dots of the Pore Matrix revealed on your face from GlamGlow's mask.  

Maybe with continued use, Origin's mask will de-clog all of my pores.  I'd caution those with dry skin to use this as it does have a drying effect on the skin.  I can't say that I'm impressed with this product, though.  Despite its hefty price tag, I'd still fork out the cash for GlamGlow's Super Mud.