I would never have guessed that charcoal would be such a big skin care ingredient but there it is is always the least expected item that proves to be the winner! Now, this is not the first charcoal facemask with we’ve reviewed and it probably won’t be the last.

This mask is by the brand Exuviance, whose products are clinically proven to reduce lines and wrinkles, increase firmness, smooth texture and even skin tone with a patented bionic blend of highly evolved Polyhydroxy and Alpha Hydroxy acids. They’re dermatologist developed.

This silky smooth charcoal grey mask contains 23% active charcoal, clay and Neoglucosamine. Like some other charcoal masks, this brand has used Japanese Binchotan charcoal which is a type of activated charcoal known for its ability to remove impurities.

The other key ingredient is French clay, which is known for its very high mineral content and let’s not forget the Neoglucosamine which is known for its ability to exfoliate and help minimize the appearance of pores. Neoglucosamine is a non-acid amino-sugar exfoliator.

One of the major benefits of using a charcoal mask is to clean up the pores and these ingredients work synergistically to remove anything that is blocking your pores as well as any bacteria or toxins are sitting on your skin, leaving you silky smooth with shrunken pores.

This Exuviance mask is probably better suited to combination or oily skin types and if you have a dryer or normal skin, you may want to use a moisturising mask afterwards.

The brand says

“This silky mud masque instantly decongests pores and detoxifies skin while absorbing excess oil and debris, so skin looks and feels thoroughly clean, smooth, detoxified, and refined.”

What’s to love:

  • This is a fast acting mask all you have to do is apply a thin layer. You can apply it with a brush or with your fingertips, but I usually paint on with a brush because it’s less messy. Then you let it dry – simple!
  • The next thing is that this mask leaves your skin silky smooth and feeling really clean. Any open pores or enlarged pores appear to be shrunken, which is fabulous and makes this an ideal mask after a long day and just before heading out for an evening event.
  • What I been doing after using this mask is applying a sheet mask to give me the super hydration and glow.

It is important to follow the instructions on this mask as due to its colour it will stain any light coloured washcloth or towels that you have so do be careful.

Buy the Exuviance Mud Treatment Mask for £36 from Face the Future

(*PR gift/sample)