Charcoal masks are everywhere; whether it be store bought or home-made.  The typical store bought charcoal mask cost around $20 and based on the Sephora reviews, they're not that great! If you make a charcoal mask at home, you'll have much better results and it'll cost you less in the long run. I'll go over the benefits of homemade charcoal masks and how to make one using two specific essential oils (which are totally optional). Tea tree and lemon essential oils are amazing in charcoal masks for the added benefits, such as removing dark marks and preventing acne breakouts. All of the ingredients can be purchased at your local health food store as well (shoutout Healthy Planet) and will last you many uses.

               ACTIVATED CHARCOAL is a lot different than the charcoal that you use on your BBQ. When this charcoal is placed on the skin it draws out impurities such as bacteria, poisons, chemicals, dirt, etc., from deep within your pores. Once the impurities are at the surface of your skin, the pores begin to tighten underneath. The activated charcoal creates a clean surface that minimizes the appearance of your pores drastically! You will see results after the first use of the mask, but to maintain the appearance of perfect skin use the mask 1 to 3 times a week.

               ALOE VERA GELLY is extracted from the aloe vera plant and has “been known as nature’s moisturizer for thousands of years” (Lily of the Desert). It is known to hydrate 3 epidermal layers, soothe skin from sun exposure, and reduce the appearance of damaged skin. A lot of Youtuber’s can be seen using Elmer’s glue as a binding with the charcoal to create a peel off mask. I think it’s pretty obvious how dangerous using glue can be; damaging the epidermal layers and ripping hair follicles. Using the aloe vera gelly, which is all natural, will provide more benefits to your skin and will leave you looking fresh faced.

               “TEA TREE OIL is [an] antiseptic, antibiotic, antiviral, and anti-fungal – making it useful for a wide range of conditions” (Worwood). Adding this essential oil into your face mask will prevent acne breakouts by drying out white heads and will clear your skin, soothe the skin and reduce redness/itching. It is much better to use tea tree oil on your skin than using harsh chemicals and alcohols. Be cautious though, tea tree oil may cause irritation on sensitive skin; a patch test is advisable. 

               LEMON ESSENTIAL OIL has anti-infection, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties. It is the perfect natural astringent and is detoxifying in nature, as well. Lemon essential oil helps remove dead skin cells and creates a fresh, clear complexion. The properties in lemon essential oil increase the luster of dull skin and create a balanced and even skin tone. If this oil is put in the charcoal mask, avoid direct contact with sunlight for at least 12 hours. Your skin is at risk of sun damage after applying lemon essential oil to the face. It is typically perfect to apply at night, before bed. This essential oil may cause irritation, as well, and should be patch tested on the skin.

               Now that you have all the ingredients and information to create the best charcoal mask, here is a step by step guide to ensure the best outcome, essential oils are optional:

Step 1: Scoop 1 tablespoon of Activated Charcoal into bowl

Step 2: Add 1 tablespoon of Aloe Vera Gelly  

Step 3: Mix the activated charcoal and Aloe Vera Gelly 

Step 4: Add 5 drops of Tea Tree Essential Oil & Lemon Essential Oil 

Step 5: Mix formula again, until smooth

Step 5: Brush mixture onto face and neck area *avoid contact with eyes*

Step 6: Wait approximately 30 minutes or until dry 

Step 7: Wash off with warm water

               As I mentioned before, this mask should be used at least once a week, but for optimal results three times a week. People that have frequent breakouts and pigmentation issues should maintain a consistent schedule with this face mask in order to see the best results. Ensure that precautions are taken when using these products, as you may have an allergic reaction. Avoid contact with eyes. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, do not use it either. Take the necessary steps to patch test your skin first for the essential oils. After your first use, your skin will look and feel brand new. 

*Update*