Have facial skin that is too oily and prone to breakouts? Charcoal masks are the answer to all your worries! Although further research needs to be done on the benefits of activated charcoal masks for the skin, actually charcoal masks are able to lift blackheads and fine hair on the face effectively. After the mask you choose passes the allergy test, immediately apply it to the facial skin and leave it on until the mask dries. After drying, gently peel off the mask, rinse your face thoroughly, and apply moisturizer to keep your facial skin healthy.
Step
Part 1 of 2: Getting Ready
Step 1. Choose a good quality charcoal mask
Buy charcoal masks only at reputable supermarkets or beauty shops! Also look for masks that contain activated charcoal, conditioning elements such as aloe vera, and essential oils that are good for skin health.
Want to make your own charcoal mask? Make sure you don't add superglue! Superglue contains components that help the mask to harden and potentially damage the skin layer when the mask is peeled off
Step 2. Do an allergy test
Both homemade and store-bought masks must go through an allergy test before being applied to your skin. In other words, you need to make sure that the mask won't irritate or irritate your skin afterwards. To do this, try applying a small amount of the mask to your cheeks or inner wrist area. Leave the mask on for 10 minutes and observe for any signs of irritation.
Some signs of an allergy or irritation are red, swollen, or itchy skin
Step 3. Tie your hair if necessary
If you're worried that your hair will get in the way and stick to the mask, try tying it up.
Step 4. Clean and exfoliate your face before applying the mask
Use your favorite facial cleanser to clean dirt and excess oil that sticks to your facial skin. To open the pores of the skin, also use an exfoliating product (scrub) that contains fine grains and rinse thoroughly before applying the mask.
Part 2 of 2: Applying the Charcoal Mask
Step 1. Apply the mask evenly on your face
Pour an appropriate amount of mask into a small bowl. After that, dip a clean brush into the mask and immediately apply it to your face. The mask can be applied to all parts of the face or only to areas with acne. If you want, you can also apply the mask only on the T area (between the nose and forehead) that has acne or blackheads.
- If you want, you can also use a thin and wide cross-section brush that is specifically intended for applying the mask to the face. If you don't have one, you can also use clean fingertips to apply the mask.
- Be careful when applying the mask on areas with acne or blemishes to prevent irritation.
Step 2. Avoid the eye and lip area
Since the skin around the eyes and lips is very sensitive, make sure you don't apply a charcoal mask to those areas. Use a mask in front of a mirror so you can clearly see the areas affected by the mask.
Step 3. Let sit for 7 to 10 minutes
Leave the mask on until the texture is completely dry and your facial skin feels stiff. If the mask starts to feel uncomfortable or painful, rinse it off before the recommended time.
Step 4. Peel off the mask from the face
Start peeling off the mask from the bottom layer (near the chin) and work your way up slowly. If the mask is only applied in the T area, peel off the mask that is in the nose area and pull it up towards the forehead.
Step 5. Clean your face and apply moisturizer
Chances are, there will be residual mask left on the facial skin afterwards. Therefore, make sure you clean your face with a skin-friendly face wash, and rinse with cold water. After that, use a moisturizer that doesn't have the potential to clog your pores and dry your face naturally.
Step 6. Use a charcoal mask twice a week or less
To prevent the risk of irritation, make sure you only use a charcoal mask when your skin is blemished or has acne. Because charcoal masks contain components to exfoliate the outermost layer of skin and fine hairs that adhere to the face, at least reapply the mask 2 weeks or more after the last use.
