charcoal – Adventures in Polishland

Tag: charcoal

Derma E Purifying 2-in-1 Charcoal Mask Review | #MayMaskChallenge

Posted on May 17, 2020 by Adventures in Polishland

This month I’ve been participating in the #MayMaskChallenge hosted by Lisa Stevens. My goal is to use a face mask at least once each week, and so far I’ve really enjoyed giving my skin a bit of extra TLC. One of my favorite masks is the Derma E Purifying 2-in-1 Charcoal Mask. I’ve used up almost an entire tube of it, and I already have a back-up ready in my mask collection. That being said, this mask can be a bit tricky to work with, so I thought it would be helpful to share my tips for using this mask.

Derma E Purifying 2-in-1 Charcoal Mask Review

The product in this post was provided for my review. This post includes affiliate links.

The Purifying 2-in-1 Charcoal Mask from Derma E has a dual-action formula that deep cleans the pores and exfoliates the skin to leave it fresh and glowing. The mask contains Activated Charcoal, which helps to remove dirt, oil, and bacteria from the skin. Derma E recommends application as follows: “Apply generously to clean face, avoiding eye and lip areas. Leave on for five minutes or until mask is dry. Moisten fingertips, then massage gently in a circular motion to activate exfoliants” prior to rinsing off the mask and patting the skin dry. I mention the instructions written on the tube because, after using this product multiple times, I slightly alter the application to make the mask work better for me.

This mask can be a bit intense since it is such a deep-cleansing mask. One time, I left the mask on my skin a bit too long, and my skin was a little red and irritated when I washed it off. I realized that instead of generously applying this mask, it is best to apply a very thin layer to the face. That is because the mask can take several minutes to dry. In the photo above, I show what the mask looks like upon application, and what it looks like after it dries. It took over 12 minutes to dry, and you can see there is a small patch where it is still wet. Thus, I now use a small amount of this mask, and wash it off immediately after five minutes has passed even though it may not be completely dry. While I do not follow the brand’s directions, I still get a great result from the mask! A little definitely goes a long way with this product.

I absolutely love the Purifying 2-in-1 Charcoal Mask because my skin not only feels vey clean and smooth, but I feel like I can visibly see a difference after each use. Of course, any dry skin is exfoliated away, but my pores are less noticeable and my complexion appears more even. I also love that this mask removes added dirt and oil, but it does not leave my skin feeling dry. It’s one of my all-time favorite masks to give my skin a deep clean!

The Derma E Purifying 2-in-1 Charcoal Mask is available for purchase on Derma E’s website for $19.50 HERE. You can also purchase a sample packet for $4.00 if you want to test the mask prior to investing in the full size.

HASK Charcoal Purifying Hair Care Collection Review

Posted on June 29, 2016June 29, 2016 by Adventures in Polishland

Happy Wednesday! Today I am excited to review a hair care collection from the brand HASK for all of you. If you’ve been reading my blog for any amount of time, you’ll know I am obsessed with charcoal skincare products. My skin absolutely loves charcoal, as it removes impurities from the skin and leaves it looking clear. I was hoping that a charcoal hair care line would really boost my hair’s health and appearance as well. Let me share my thoughts on the HASK Charcoal Purifying Hair Care Collection with all of you!

I received the shampoo, conditioner, and deep conditioner from the HASK Charcoal Purifying Hair Care Collection, plus a HASK hair brush. This line is formulated to give your hair a deep clean and remove all the impurities in your hair, whether it be from product use or anything else. Charcoal attracts and removes impurities, and the line also includes Vitamin C to clarify hair without stripping away moisture. The entire line is free of sulfates, parabens, phthalates, gluten, drying alcohol, and artificial colors. I really appreciate that the line is more on the natural side!

I used this line for about three weeks, and unfortunately had to discontinue use because it was starting to irritate my scalp. After about 1-2 weeks of use, I noticed I had a lot of breakouts on my scalp. I figured this was because the charcoal was working, and all of the impurities in my scalp and hair were being released. At first I ignored the breakouts, because they weren’t bothering me at all. However, at about 2.5 weeks, my scalp got very itchy and it was bothering me all day long. I did one more use after that, but when the issue didn’t go away I decided to discontinue use immediately. After going back to my regular shampoo, my scalp already feels better after just a few uses. I do tend to have a sensitive scalp that gets dry and flaky, but I’ve never had an issue like this before, and I’m quite frankly surprised that this line irritated me. I’ve used charcoal products on my face and body regularly for a few years now without issue. Whatever the reason, I had to mention this experience with you in case you also have a sensitive scalp.

That being said, my hair itself did feel a lot stronger and cleaner than it normally does while I was using this system. It did get more tangly, but it looked more radiant. The shampoo and conditioner work up to a nice lather even though it is sulfate free, and it doesn’t have a strong scent. It’s too bad the system irritated my scalp, because my hair seemed to be enjoying it.

I used the Purifying Deep Conditioner twice during the three weeks I used the system – once in the first week and once in the second. I didn’t see a big change in my hair after using this deep conditioner, and my hair felt quite weighed down for the next day or two. I do have very fine hair, so it is weighed down easily. However, I don’t typically have an issue with deep conditioners. This one just didn’t seem to do much for me, although it could change my hair over time with regular use.

HASK Charcoal Purifying Hair Care Collection Review

The last product I received is also my favorite of the bunch! HASK included this small brush, and I’m loving it. The brush reminds me of my holy grail brush, The Wet Brush, but isn’t quite as gentle. I love the cute design on the brush, and the size makes it perfect for travel. I’m going to continue using this for sure!

All in all, I had a hit and miss experience with the HASK Charcoal Purifying Hair Care Collection. It’s difficult for me to say whether or not I recommend this line. If you have a sensitive scalp, I definitely think you should stay away from this range, but if you don’t you are probably okay to try it out. The good news is HASK is a very fabulous and affordable brand! The shampoo and conditioner retail for just $5.99 each, with the deep conditioner being $2.99. You can learn more on HASK’s website HERE and shop online at Ulta. If you’ve tried HASK, please share your experience in the comments!

The products in this post were provided for my unbiased review. All opinions are my own. See my Disclosure Policy for more information.

Michael Todd Charcoal Detox Deep Pore Gel Cleanser Review

Posted on November 2, 2015December 4, 2015 by Adventures in Polishland

Happy Monday! Today I am excited to share with you a new-to-me skincare product from the brand Michael Todd. When I first heard about charcoal skincare products, I was a bit hesitant to use them, but my skin absolutely loves charcoal. I’ve tried charcoal masks and exfoliators, and they’ve worked really well. I jumped at the chance to review the recently repackaged Charcoal Detox Deep Pore Gel Cleanser from Michael Todd. I had just run out of cleanser, and I knew this would be the perfect replacement. Let me tell you more about Charcoal Detox, and share my experience using the product.

Michael Todd Charcoal Detox Deep Pore Gel Cleanser Review

Michael Todd Charcoal Detox is a gel cleanser that is designed to lift impurities that are deep-set in the skin without stripping the skin of its natural hydration. Charcoal helps to remove pore blockages and eliminates excess oil. Charcoal Detox also includes Sugar Cane and Maple and Bilberry Extract to stimulate cell turnover and heal dark spots. It also has Tea Tree Oil for antibacterial and anti-inflammatory healing properties. Charcoal Detox is ideal for those with oily and blemish prone skin.

I have combination skin that is both oily and dry at the same time. My pores are enlarged throughout my T-zone, and I am always looking to clear them out gently. Charcoal Detox made it to my doorstop just in time – I was starting to break out in really nasty acne. I used Charcoal Detox just one time and I could already feel a huge difference in my skin! I feel like I am writing an infomercial, but it is so true! My acne cleared up in just a week of using this cleanser.

I use Charcoal Detox with my FOREO Luna in the shower. I’ve never used a gel cleanser before, but I really like it because of its light texture. After rinsing off the cleanser, my skin feels amazing. It’s really clean, but at the same time very soft. I can tell that my skin isn’t stripped of its natural hydration! My skin is really loving Charcoal Detox for sure!

All in all, I am a huge fan of the Michael Todd Charcoal Detox Deep Pore Gel Cleanser! If charcoal works well with your skin type, I highly recommend this cleanser. If you’re new to charcoal, I think you should try it out if you have clogged pores and oily skin. Charcoal Detox is a vegan product, and is made in the USA. It is a higher end skincare brand, but it is worth every penny in my opinion. The full size 6.7 fl oz bottle retails for $23.00 on ULTA’s website HERE. I am definitely going to continue using this cleanser until the last drop!

Do you use charcoal skincare products? Let me know in the comments!

The product in this post was provided for my unbiased review. All opinions are my own. See my Disclosure Policy for more information.

The Healing Tree Bamboo Charcoal Soap | Review & Giveaway

Posted on June 3, 2014August 8, 2015 by Adventures in Polishland

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

Happy Tuesday! Today I have another soap review for all of you. When I got the opportunity to review a charcoal soap from The Healing Tree, I was really excited. I’ve tried a couple other charcoal products in the past, and my skin has always loved it! Let me tell you more about this soap, and stay tuned to the end for a giveaway!

ABOUT THE SOAP

It can be scary to use charcoal in your skincare products for the first time, but it’s truly an amazing and all-natural ingredient! Charcoal helps to clear your pores of dirt and oils to leave your skin clean both above and below the surface. This is especially helpful if you suffer from acne, eczema, or another skin condition, and charcoal will help to rejuvenate your skin completely. It allows your skin to moisturize itself naturally, without the need for excess oils. Plus, this soap is made with four all-natural ingredients: vegetable oil, water, glycerin, and bamboo charcoal. The Healing Tree brand does not test on animals, and uses no dyes or chemicals in it’s products. If you’re looking for a natural soap, this is definitely for you!

MY EXPERIENCE

I was a bit nervous to use this soap at first, because it does have a slight charcoal scent, and it does have a dark grey color when you’re washing with it. Thankfully, the color washes off easily with water, and I was surprised that it did not stain my bathtub at all. I used the soap in my shower, and one bar lasted for about three full weeks. While I didn’t like the charcoal scent, my skin absolutely loved this product! I can definitely see a difference in my skin – my pores are less visible, and my skin is overall more smooth and clear. My skin also feels softer, and I think it more moisturized overall. Taking the scent into consideration, I would rate this soap a 4 out of 5 stars.

GIVEAWAY

This giveaway is being hosted through Tomoson. Please note that while the widget does ask for your shipping information as part of your entry into the giveaway, all of your personal information will remain private. I cannot see any of the entries, and only the winner’s shipping information will be released to the company so they can mail you your prize. Please read all of the Terms & Conditions carefully, and feel free to ask me any questions.

All in all, I really like the Bamboo Charcoal Soap from The Healing Tree! It is a great soap if you are looking to rejuvenate your skin, and is perfect for the summer months when our pores can get clogged quite easily. You can purchase this soap on the company’s website for just $3.99 HERE. Talk about fabulous and affordable! Let me know what you think about this soap in the comments. Have you ever used a charcoal product before? If so, what did you think of it?

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.