Everyone has stubborn pores and blackheads on their noses that never seem to go away. The T-Zone of the face is the most oily part of the face. The days when I feel it getting “oily” I get really annoyed. The latest product I discovered was the Charcoal Facial Mask I bought from Richmond Daiso for $2.
First off- Daiso is a Japanese is a dollar/convenient store that sells everything from clothes to slippers, snacks to cups, iPhone cases to skincare and more. Most items are $2, and some bigger things cost a bit more. Daiso is a one stop shop if you need anything quickly. I never thought about buying skin care products for $2, but I read some reviews on the Charcoal Facial Mask and decided to give it a try. Hey, if it was bad I could chuck it in the garbage without regrets.
The highlight of the Charcoal Facial Mask, other than its price, is its ingredient,charcoal. Charcoal is known for its purifying properties. The Daiso mask is used primarily for removing pores and blackheads. Also, it is made in Korea.
I have used Biore pore strips before, but I find them expensive ($8-$10/box at drugstores.)
I have read that pore strips actually make it worse for your skin, since you are pulling the top layer of your skin off which damages the capillaries. In addition, your pores could worsen by consistent pulling of the skin. You should not be using them on a daily basis because it can produce long term problems. The Charcoal Mask is somewhat similar because it involves “pulling” and I use it 1-2 times per week- 2 weeks.
I definitely found the Charcoal mask to be effective. My observations:
- minimizes the look of pores
- makes my skin looks softer and feels less oily
- clean feeling
How I use it:
- Squeeze out a reasonable amount of charcoal mask liquid and evenly apply it on your nose (or other areas of your face, but I primarily use it on my nose.)
- After applying, let the mask rest on your skin for 10-15 minutes until it is dried. Don’t move your face muscles too much or you will crack the mask while drying.
- After it is dried, slowly peel it by starting on the outer corners of the mask and peeling in towards the centre of your face.
(NOTE: The mask will hurt slightly while peeling. Be very gentle and slow. You do not want to damage your skin.)
- Use toner/softener after mask is removed.
I have normal/dry skin, so my skin hasn’t reacted to the mask (yet). I am not sure how it affects sensitive skin, so please do a small test patch before spreading it over your face.
Ingredients: Alcohol and methylparabens form part of the ingredients list. As I mention, do not use this product regularly. On the back of the tube it says ” Do not use more than twice per week.”
The Charcoal Mask Pack solves blackhead problems short term– your pores will be oily and surface again later.
Warning: People sell this product on ebay for $6-$15 dollar- they are ripping you off!
Rating: 3.5/5
Have you tried this inexpensive mask before? Or do you use some other method to get rid of nasty pores? Let me about your skincare routine!