6 Super Satisfying Peel-Off Charcoal Masks for Clearer, Glowing Skin
Peel off masks and activated charcoal go together like two peas in a pod. While the popular, deep cleansing skincare ingredient detoxifies the skin by helping to unclog pores, remove impurities, and tame breakouts, peel-off masks add an extra element of exfoliation by physically removing some blackheads and dead skin cells. Together, they create an intensive treatment to try whenever your skin is in need of a hard reset.
Though peel-off masks are super satisfying, they work best when they’re used sparingly—ideally in rotation with nourishing and soothing (aka less abrasive) masks. Keep in mind that despite these masks being total pros at removing dead skin cells and blackheads, too much use can end up removing beneficial hairs and oils on the face, leading to irritation. Like all things skincare, it's all about finding the right balance for you!
To get you started in your search for the best peel-off charcoal mask, we've highlighted seven of our favorite go-to masks below.
Goodbye blackheads! This deep, black mask combines mineral-rich charcoal powder with sebum-regulating green tea extract, a top ingredient to help control excess oil production in the skin. It's also formulated with PUREHEALS' Tannin Pore Complex, a proprietary blend of extracts designed to help tighten pores and tone the skin.
"I was surprised at how easy this mask peeled off," writes one Ipster. "My face felt like it had been deep cleaned. It removed the few tiny blackheads I had. I will definitely use this up!"
A K-beauty favorite, this mask is made without harmful parabens, sulfates, or phthalates. Instead, it uses detoxifying charcoal powder and natural extracts like lavender, peppermint, rosemary, and anise to polish the skin. In this formula, you'll also find glycerin, which helps to hydrate the skin and ward off dry patches and irritation.
This face mask blends toxin-absorbing charcoal with witch hazel, aloe vera, and a selection of botanical extracts. Witch hazel is an excellent anti-inflammatory ingredient for acne-prone people who also happen to have sensitive skin. It's a gentle, yet effective, astringent that can tame breakouts and may even help future blemishes from forming. Worried about irritation? Aloe works to keep skin soothed and well hydrated.
Pro tip: If you have sensitive skin and want to give peel-off masks a go, try applying the product only to the areas that need attention rather than to the entire face. You can also do a small patch test before applying it to larger areas.
If you're ready to go all-in on the charcoal mask experience, try this luxe two-step set. First, you'll apply an even layer of the charcoal paste to targeted areas (like your t-zone). Next, grab the lace compression mask and press it onto the skin, layering it over the paste. The lace mask will fuse to the paste, allowing for easy removal.
While the lace compression mask certainly serves a key function, it's also undeniably fun. If you're looking for a selfie-worthy charcoal mask, this is certainly a top contender.
This peel-off black mask is totally focused on eliminating blackheads and reducing the appearance of pores. The charcoal powder in this mask clears out gunk, grime, and hard-to-remove debris, while good old H2O hydrates and refines.
Because this fragrance-free formula is made from 90 percent natural ingredients, it makes for another great choice for sensitive skin types. In addition to utilizing activated charcoal's purifying powers, this facial mask also features rosewater, a key ingredient to help maintain the skin's pH balance and control excess sebum (oil) production.
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