As far as viral beauty trends go there’s no denying that the use of charcoal-based products is still going strong from face masks and sponges to teeth whitening powders.

When used in a face mask, activated charcoal draws out and binds to the dirt, bacteria, oil and toxins in our pores. The charcoal absorbs these components, washing away to leave skin feeling clean and fresh.

As a person with sensitive skin, my preference is gentle skin care products. I enjoy using facemasks at home and anything that makes me feel like I’ve had a spa treatment for a fraction of the price is a winner.

The Brand

Founded in 2007, Natura Siberica is the first Certified Organic beauty brand. Their products are created using wild harvested herbs and exclusive natural ingredients sourced from the unspoiledlands of Siberia.

The vegan-friendly range uses Siberian Pine Oil as the base for all creams, conditioners and shampoos. Five times richer in vitamin E than Olive Oil and three times richer in vitamin F than cod liver oil, it reinforces the skin's natural barriers and offers protection from wind, cold and severe environments. 

The purity of the formulas are guaranteed by European certificates of ECO BIO cosmetics ECOCERT and ICEA. Natura Siberica is the only company approved by COSMOS-Standard AISBL.

The Product

This luxurious Organic certified mask replenishes dry or sensitive skin by harnessing the power of activated charcoal.

Part of the brand's The Northern Collection, the mask claims to clarify the complexion and brighten skin while preserving skin balance. At £13.99 the price is higher than your average high street options, but I would expect this of organic products.

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Who should try this mask?

This mask would be good for individuals who suffer from congested, dull and tired looking skin. Vegan-friendly and organic, it will also appeal to those who are conscious of chemicals in skincare and favour cruelty-free products.

What did I think of the mask?

The mask has a thick and silky texture. The product applies evenly but surprisingly, felt and looked oily, not unpleasant though. After the recommended five to eight minutes the mask washes off easily with warm water.

My skin felt cleansed and soft without feeling dry and my complexion looked visibly brighter and luminous.

The Herald:

Natura Siberica’s black cleansing facemask was enjoyable to use and gentle on my skin. This would be a good purchase for those looking for a brand that is environmentally friendly, cruelty-free and packed full of natural organic ingredients.

Stockists

Natura Siberica  £13.99

Sainsbury's £14

Marks and Spencer £14

Love Lula £13.99

Alternative Charcoal Facemasks

The Herald:

Spend

Superdrug: Sanctuary 5 Min Charcoal Thermal Detox Mask £9.99

Splurge

Origins: Clear Improvement Charcoal Honey Mask £30

Save

Boots: Quick Fix Facial Purifying Charcoal Mask £5.20