Skin Obsession Charcoal Mask Breakdown
Facial masks are readily available online, at spas and even at the local corner pharmacy. Many facial masks may tout the same results, but not all can deliver. When buying a facial mask, it's important to know what you're actually getting. This is a breakdown of one of our most popular masks and a personal favorite: the charcoal mask.
Our charcoal mask contains only authentic, high-quality ingredients. It is a cruelty-free product, and carries a very low incidence of allergic reactions or health risks. We recommend this mask for anyone looking to improve skin tone, struggling with oily skin, acne, blemishes or inflammation and to those looking to feed their skin powerful minerals and antioxidants.
Montmorillonite was discovered in France in the late 1800s and has been used as a powerful detoxifying agent ever since. This clay belongs to a group called "smectites", which are known for their absorbent qualities. Smectite clays can absorb oils and bacteria, and contain an assortment of 57 minerals.
Montmorillonite carries virtually no risk for allergies.
Activated charcoal is created by combining carbon with oxygen. It is a very effective and safe treatment for the accidental ingestion of poisons, and works similarly on skin. By drawing out bacteria, chemicals, dirt and other particles, it helps to create clearer skin and combats oil and acne. Activated charcoal has the ability to absorb thousands of times its own weight.
There are no health concerns such as cancer risk, toxicity or allergies associated with this ingredient.
Allantoin is a naturally occurring compound found in plants like comfrey. It's been used traditionally to help heal wounds, protect skin and soothe irritations. Allantoin also stimulates the growth of healthy tissue by promoting cell regeneration. It is safe for any skin type and carries virtually no risk of allergic reactions.
Zinc oxide is created from naturally-occurring zinc when combined with oxygen molecules. It is most often associated with the active ingredient in sunscreen, but it has various other applications. Because it soothes, keeps moisture locked in, prevents bacterial infections, promotes healing and reduces inflammation, it is used to treat diaper rash, rosacea, melasma and acne. Occurrences of allergies to topical zinc oxide are extremely rare.
Ascorbyl Palmitate is a fat-soluble form of vitamin C. It can penetrate skin more quickly and efficiently to deliver powerful antioxidants to prevent oxidant damage. There are no health concerns or allergies associated with this ingredient.
The benefits of algae are many. When consumed, spirulina is a powerful nutrient, high in protein, vital amino acids and complex vitamins. On skin, it offers soothing benefits, encourages skin cell turnover and healing, and prevents acne breakouts. Spirulina maxima is safe and carries no risk for adverse reactions.
The impact oral Dimethylaminoethanol has on mental alertness has been touted within the health community for years. Topically, it causes some degree of skin tightening and buffering, reducing the appearance of sagging and wrinkles.
There is some limited evidence of allergies with this ingredient.
Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) is a native New Zealand shrub related to the myrtle. It is not used to make tea, but can be used to disinfect and treat small cuts, scrapes and irritations. Tea tree oil is used in household acne remedy solutions and is well-known for its cleansing benefits. Melaleuca alternifolia washes away dirt and other particles, dead skin, bacteria and excess oils.
