Booking an appointment with a facialist on a weekly basis can be heavy on the pocket. But sometimes a daily cleanse is just not enough to get that glow and soft skin. From time to time, our skin needs deep cleansing to remove the impurities stuck deep within the layers. For a spa-like facial at home, using charcoal mask has gained popularity over the past couple of years. A charcoal face mask or charcoal peel-off mask is typically used for deep cleansing and detoxifying the skin. Activated charcoal face mask is a fine powder that is made from substances such as coconut shells, wood or coal through a process of activation. Charcoal mask leaves the skin feeling rejuvenated and revitalised.
The Benefits of Charcoal Masks: The Basics
A charcoal mask benefits include drawing out dirt, oil and other impurities from the pores and tightens and firms the skin giving a more refined complexion. It also soaks up excess oil and creates a balance in the skin. After a charcoal mask deep cleanse, skincare products like serums and moisturisers can be absorbed better and deeper into the skin and be more effective. Below we will tell you which is one of the best charcoal face mask in India, how to use charcoal mask and its various benefits on different skin types.
The Benefits of Charcoal Masks for Different Skin Types
1. Benefits of Charcoal Masks for Oily Skin

Oily skin tends to produce an excess amount of sebum contributing to a greasy and shiny appearance. Charcoal face mask helps regulate oil production by absorbing and removing excess oil from the skin’s surface. Its oil-absorbing properties can help mattify the skin. Enlarged pores are also common in oily skin type. Charcoal masks help minimise the appearance of the pores by unclogging and removing trapped impurities. By eliminating congested skin cells, the mask can help improve the overall texture of the skin.
Say goodbye to oil and hello to a matte glow, with Pond’s Pure Detox Mineral Clay Face Mask. The key ingredients in this mask that your skin will love are activated charcoal and Manicouagan clay. The activated charcoal helps detoxify the skin and Manicouagan clay has four times oil absorption power. Together, it will leave the skin glowing and matte. Apply the clay mask onto clean and dry skin. Leave it in on for 10 minutes and let it dry. Rinse the face with water as usual. It is recommended to use this mask once a week for that effortless, salon-like glow at home.
2. Benefits of Charcoal Masks for Acne-Prone Skin

Acne can be caused due to hormonal changes, especially in younger boys and girls. Having an acne-prone skin can be really painful at times. The prime drivers of acne are excess oils, clogged pores and impurities. Charcoal mask’s deep cleansing, detoxifying and absorption properties reduce the build-up of sebum, preventing in the formation of acne-causing bacteria. Charcoal also has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can combat acne-causing bacteria and help calm and soothe the skin.
3. Benefits of Charcoal Masks for Combination Skin

A combination skin type is characterised by having both oily and dry areas on the face. It is mainly oily in the T-zone which includes forehead, nose and chin while the cheeks are maybe normal or dry. Charcoal masks can also be applied on targeted areas such as the T-zone in a combination skin type to remove excess oil for a more balanced complexion. Since they effectively remove excess oil without drying out the skin, this makes them suitable for combination skin.
4. Benefits of Charcoal Masks for Dry Skin

Charcoal masks contain gentle exfoliating ingredients that help remove dead skin cells, thus, improving the texture of the dry skin, making it smoother and softer. They also help retain moisture in the skin by providing deep hydration to dry areas. By exfoliating the skin, it helps the moisturiser do a better job by penetrating deeper into the skin. By removing dead skin cells, charcoal helps brighten the dull skin and brings backs its shine and brilliance.
5. Benefits of Charcoal Masks for Sensitive Skin
Some debate that charcoal masks can irritate and further dry out the skin. On the contrary, the gentle detoxification process can be beneficial for sensitive skin by removing toxins and pollutants that cause irritation. Some charcoal masks also contain soothing ingredients like aloe vera and green tea extract that help soothe and calm sensitive skin. Charcoal masks formulated for sensitive skin are usually non-drying. They clean the skin without stripping away the essential moisture and balances the hydration levels.
How to Choose and Use Charcoal Masks for Your Skin Type

Before purchasing a charcoal mask, it is important to determine your skin type whether it is oily, dry, combination or sensitive. Always check the ingredient list to ensure that the charcoal mask contains ingredients suitable for your skin type. It is also imperative to consider the formulation of the charcoal masks. They come in peel-off masks, wash-off or sheet masks. If you have acne-prone skin, choose a wash-off charcoal mask as it will smoothen the removal process without hurting the skin.
If you want to address a specific skin concern such as clogged pores, excess oil, dullness or dryness, look for masks that specifically target those concerns. Choose masks that read pore-minimising, oil-controlling, brightening or hydrating. Before applying the charcoal mask to your entire face, it is advisable to perform a patch test. Apply a small amount of the product on chin or jaw line, and observe for any adverse reactions or sensitivity.
FAQs about The Benefits of Charcoal Masks for Different Skin Types
Q1. What are the side-effects of a charcoal mask?
A. Some individuals may be allergic to certain ingredients present in charcoal masks. Always do a patch test or ask your dermatologist if you have sensitive skin type. Some may also find the removal process of a charcoal peel-off mask uncomfortable or painful.
Q2. How often should you use a charcoal mask?
A. The frequency of charcoal mask usage depends on your skin type. It is generally recommended to use a charcoal mask once or twice a week.
Q3. Can you make a charcoal mask at home?
A. Yes, you can make your own charcoal mask at home. DIY your charcoal mask by mixing some activated charcoal powder, bentonite clay, raw honey and water. You can also add a drop of essential oil of your liking. Apply the paste and leave it on your face for 10 to 15 minutes or till completely dry. Rinse as usual.
If you have not yet tried out a charcoal mask, then we suggest you do it right now. You can either purchase a charcoal mask or DIY at home, if you have sensitive skin type. Using a charcoal mask will deeply purify your skin from the debris and make it appear softer and smoother. If you have specific concerns or questions about using charcoal masks, it’s advisable to consult a skincare professional before applying a charcoal mask.
Written by Team BB on 22nd Jun 2023