Style Lux: Blackhead Killer Face Mask*

I was recently sent a Blackhead Killer face mask, by Style Lux, in order to try and review. It took me ages to get around to it, but finally I have!

Now I'm not going to lie, I'm not a huge fan of face masks. I'm not really a fan of any beauty that takes effort (I know, I know... but I'm trying!). While there is very little effort required for applying a face mask, its the waiting, taking/washing the mask off, moisturising etc afterwards.

According to the Style Lux website, Blackhead Killer is "a revolutionary face mask that removes pimples, blackheads, impurities, and excess oil in just minutes." They say "As Blackhead Killer dries, it actually sucks pimples, blackheads and the oil and bacteria that cause them out of your skin. It penetrates deep and then literally sucks them up and out of your skin!"

Anyway, as I'd been sent it to review, I thought I should do just that! The instructions on the back are fairly simple...

"Usage: After 10 minutes drying, gently peel off the mask. Cleanse with warm water. Apply delicious face moisturizer."

I decided to just use the mask on my "problem areas" - basically my nose and top of the cheeks. I probably should have done my whole face in hindsight, in order to do my chin. When I opened the mask, I was absolutely shocked that the face mask was black. Thick, runny, black liquid, reminiscent of tar! Luckily, it smelt good so I was tempted enough to give it a try.

The face mask, as I said, is thick and runny. However its fairly easy to apply, if not a little messy. Though the instructions said to leave 10 minutes, I have to say mine was more like 20-25, and even then some parts were still sticky (though perhaps that's where I applied it too thick?). It felt sort of tingly on my skin as it dried, but as the same time you could tell it was tightening and pulling.

When the time came to peel off the mask, I was a little worried it wasn't going to peel. However it did but god did it hurt! I've always joked with my kids that beauty is pain, but this reminded me of removing plasters or using an epilator. After I gave myself a mental slap, I managed to get majority of the face mask off. Where it was still wet it was harder to remove though and I ended up just having to wash that off instead.

At first, I have to admit, I wasn't all that impressed. My face hurt a little, I had to go and find moisturiser and I didn't think my pores looked all that different. However, as my face still stung a little, I found myself rubbing my hands over my face a bit. The places that I had my mask, feel smooth and definitely less greasy. Did it help my blackheads? Well I'm not entirely sure - I might have to take a raincheck and get back to you on that one - but for a face mask, it definitely gives your skin a workout.

I have several more packets to try and if I can be brave, I might attempt a whole face mask next time. I'll definitely have to remember to spread it a little thinner though and be prepared to hold my breath when I peel it off!