Q&A for How to Apply a Charcoal Mask

Though charcoal masks are very popular, more research and evidence is needed to understand their specific skin benefits.

Although more research is needed to determine how activated charcoal improves the skin, charcoal masks can effectively remove blackheads and fine hairs.

A charcoal mask can help to reduce redness and puffiness. For the best results, apply a cold compress to your face for about 30 seconds just before putting the charcoal mask on.

Be sure to thoroughly wash your face before the application. Oils that may not be apparent or as noticeable are still possibly on the skin. Or it could be body temperature regulation issues. For example, If you're in a hot climate, your skin will still sweat (sweat may seem nonexistent, but may still be forming), thus causing poor adhesion. Other body temperature issues are stress, anxiety, genetics, and diseases/disorders (such as hypo/hyperthyroidism).

It won't make them fall out but will pull out any hairs that are stuck to it.

Definitely after a bath. That way your skin won't have much dirt or oil to impede the mask.

Soak the cloth in Vanish detergent powder overnight, and wash it out in the morning.

Yes. If your skin gets irritated after using a charcoal mask, aloe vera gel can help soothe irritation.

The only way it could be potentially harmful is if you have some kind of reaction to the ingredients. This is why it's a good idea to do a "spot test." Apply just a small amount to your skin, wait a couple of minutes, and rinse it off. If you don't experience any itching, redness, or irritation, it's probably fine for you to go ahead and use it all over your face.

No. It surely removes the blemishes, black heads and small hairs from face. However, it does not remove facial hair permanently.

It depends what brand you buy. Try one that contains aloe vera or another gentle moisturizer in it.

Make sure you are cleaning your face with a gentle cleanser. This should help prepare your face for the charcoal mask and help clear up acne.

It does not dry immediately, so you must wait 7-10 minutes. Occasionally touch the mask with the tips of your fingers to check to see if it is dry or not. Wait an extra 3-5 minutes, but no longer, or the mask may cause irritation to your pores.

The best solution is to go to a dermatologist who will properly remove the blackheads through chemical peels, microdermabrasion and/or extractions. They commonly perform chemical peels with salicylic acid, glycolic acid or lactic acid in addition to microdermabrasion to remove sticky skin cells and unblock pores, thus reducing acne formation.

Yes, that is part of it is meant for. If it pulls it out, don't be alarmed, that is just what's supposed to happen.

The charcoal might be irritating your pores, so stop using the brand you use and use another brand's chacoal mask. If the same reaction occurs, stop using these masks.

Yes, it would be a great idea to use a facial cleaner or face cream after, especially the face cream. It would help moisturize the face, which could be dry after using the face mask.

Charcoal and other masks are very good but the charcoal mask tends to go deeper into your pores to clean out any impurities, and the charcoal mask tends to stick better than other masks.