Having combination skin, clay masks are often hit or miss. Though they work wonders at removing excess oil, many of them dry out my skin and it feels uncomfortable afterward. However, that’s not the case with Good Science 001-Pu Purifying Facial, a clay mask that actually hydrates. Here’s my honest review.
The Benefits:
First, I love the way this mask feels on my skin. It’s super creamy and spreads easily without drying the second it touches your skin (this is case with many other kaolin clay masks I’ve used). Second, the mix of acne-fighting willow bark and pore-reducing niacinamide is a match made in heaven for those who are prone to breakouts and redness. Niacinamide also has soothing benefits, which keeps it on the gentler side.
Another thing that makes this mask well-balanced is that it contains shea butter, which adds a moisturizing component, and sunflower seed oil, which adds hydration. Therefore, even if your skin is a little drier or more sensitive, you can probably still tolerate this well.
Lastly, one of the key secrets to this formula is the brand’s patented Good Silicon+ technology, which is a carrier technology designed to make the ingredients inside the jar more effective. Essentially, it helps keep the active ingredients bioavailable and protects them from degrading. It also works to boost their absorption into the skin, and releases them in the skin over time.
How to Use It:
After applying the mask to your full face (I like to use a silicone mask brush to make it more of a self-care ritual), leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes, and then wash it off. Because my skin can get tingly with certain masks, I did a test run the first time and left it on for only five minutes, and still got a nice result (soft, hydrated skin). Also, in pictures of other people using this mask, they applied a much thicker layer than I do. I’m not sure that more is necessary in this case, and the jar isn’t terribly big, so you don’t want to waste product if you don’t need to.
A note from the brand: Willow bark contains salicin, a precursor of salicylic acid. If you are allergic to salicylic acid (aspirin), this mask is not suitable for you.
