Pink Pore Clarifying Charcoal Mask
Pink Pore Clarifying Charcoal Mask
Product Description
Product overview
A color-changing clay mask that transforms from pink to gray to white while deeply purifying pores. Formulated with charcoal, calamine, and salicylic acid, this innovative wash-off mask provides spa-quality pore cleansing in just 10 minutes, leaving skin smooth, refreshed, and visibly clearer.
Color-Changing Technology
Transforms from pink to gray to white as it works, providing visual feedback during treatment.
Texture & feel
SENSORYColor-Changing Technology
Transforms from pink to gray to white as it works, providing visual feedback during treatment.
Deep Pore Cleansing
Charcoal and kaolin clay work like magnets to draw out impurities, excess sebum, and blackheads.
Calming Calamine
Pink calamine capsules soothe skin and control oil production while providing gentle care.
BHA Exfoliation
Contains salicylic acid to gently exfoliate and improve skin clarity without harsh stripping.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains salicylic acid (BHA), which should be avoided during pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider.
Contains lauric acid and polyglyceryl-10 stearate which may feed malassezia yeast.
Rating of 1/5 - unlikely to clog pores for most skin types when used as directed.
Hypoallergenic and dermatologist tested. Gentle formula suitable for most sensitive skin types.
People with aspirin allergies may react to salicylic acid. Patch test recommended.
This product should not be used on children under 3 years of age per manufacturer guidelines.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCharcoal PowderStar Ingredient
Activated charcoal acts like a magnet to draw out deep-dwelling impurities, excess oil, and environmental pollutants from pores. Provides detoxifying benefits for clearer-looking skin.
- Function: Absorbs impurities, sebum, and toxins from skin surface and pores
- Mechanism: High surface area creates adsorption effect that traps dirt and oil
CalamineSoothing
The signature pink ingredient that gives this mask its distinctive color. Calamine has been used for decades to soothe irritated skin and control excess oil production.
- Function: Soothes skin, reduces redness, and helps control sebum
- Benefits: Anti-itch, astringent, and skin-protecting properties
Kaolin ClayOil Control
A gentle white clay known for its oil-absorbing properties without over-drying the skin. Less harsh than bentonite, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
- Function: Absorbs excess sebum and helps minimize appearance of pores
- Note: Gentler than bentonite clay, suitable for regular use
Salicylic Acid (BHA) <0.5%Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid that penetrates into pores to dissolve sebum plugs and dead skin cells. Provides gentle chemical exfoliation for improved skin clarity.
- Function: Exfoliates inside pores, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial
- Research: FDA-recognized acne treatment at 0.5-2% concentrations
Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Seed ExtractAntioxidant
Provides antioxidant protection and soothing benefits. Helps protect skin from environmental stressors while calming inflammation.
- Function: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, skin soothing
- Benefits: Contains polyphenols that protect against free radical damage
Hyaluronic Acid Complex 3 TypesHydrating
Contains three forms of hyaluronic acid (regular, hydrolyzed, and sodium hyaluronate) to provide multi-level hydration and prevent the drying effects common with clay masks.
- Forms: Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate
- Benefit: Prevents over-drying while maintaining skin moisture balance
35 ingredients
Water, Silica, Propanediol, Kaolin, Glycerin, Diatomaceous Earth, 1,2-Hexanediol, Butylene Glycol, Camellia Sinensis Seed Extract, Betaine, Carbomer, Tromethamine, Hydroxyacetophenone, Titanium Dioxide, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Cellulose, Charcoal Powder, Calamine, Cellulose Gum, Xanthan Gum, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin, Ethylcellulose, Gardenia Florida Fruit Extract, Dextrin, Lauric Acid, Zea Mays (Corn) Starch, Aluminum Hydroxide, Mannitol, Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate, Salicylic Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse 2-3 times per week after cleansing on dry skin. Apply before toner and follow with hydrating products.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Dry
Start with clean, dry skin. Remove all makeup and pat face completely dry with a towel.
Apply Pink Mask
Apply an even layer across face, avoiding eye and lip areas. Gently massage to burst the charcoal capsules.
Watch the Color Change
Watch as the mask transforms from pink to gray (charcoal activation) to white (fully dried). This takes 5-10 minutes.
Rinse Off
Gently rinse with lukewarm water when mask turns white. Follow with toner, serum, and moisturizer.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin with visible pores
- You struggle with blackheads and sebum buildup
- You want a fun, interactive masking experience
- You need gentle pore cleansing without harsh drying
- You enjoy spa-like treatments at home
- You have occasional breakouts and congested skin
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains salicylic acid)
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You have an aspirin allergy
- You have extremely dry or dehydrated skin
- You need a daily-use product (this is 2-3x weekly)
- You have active eczema or severe rosacea
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal choice. Charcoal and kaolin absorb excess sebum effectively without over-stripping. Controls shine and minimizes pore appearance.
Perfect for T-zone targeting. Can apply more liberally on oily areas and lighter on dry zones.
Works well for weekly maintenance. Keeps pores clean and skin refreshed without disrupting balance.
Hypoallergenic and dermatologist tested. Calamine provides soothing benefits. Patch test recommended first.
Use sparingly (once weekly max). The hyaluronic acid helps, but follow with extra hydration. May cause tightness.
Low comedogenic rating. Salicylic acid helps unclog pores and prevent breakouts. Great for non-fungal acne.
Results timeline
4+ WEEKSSkin Feels Deeply Cleansed
Pores appear visibly cleaner and smaller. Skin feels refreshed, smooth, and detoxified without tightness or dryness.
90% noticed instant smoothnessReduced Blackheads & Sebum
With consistent 2-3x weekly use, noticeable reduction in blackheads. Skin appears less oily throughout the day.
80% saw blackhead reductionRefined Skin Texture
Continued use shows improved overall skin texture, minimized pore appearance, and more balanced oil production.
75% reported smoother textureRatings by platform
850+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Fun color-changing experience makes masking enjoyable
- Gentle formula doesn't over-dry or strip skin
- Effective at removing excess oil and sebum
- Easy to wash off without residue
- Suitable for sensitive skin (hypoallergenic)
- Affordable price point for quality K-beauty
- Generous 110g size lasts a long time
- Contains hydrating ingredients to balance drying clays
Criticized
- Color change not always visible on all skin tones
- Won't dramatically shrink pore size permanently
- Contains salicylic acid (not pregnancy safe)
- Not fungal acne safe due to certain ingredients
- May be too gentle for those wanting intense deep cleaning
- Charcoal capsules require massaging to activate
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Uses volcanic ash clusters instead of charcoal. Contains AHA (lactic acid) for exfoliation. Cooling sensation with menthol. More mattifying finish but may be more drying.
61% mugwort extract for soothing. Uses kaolin and bentonite clays. No salicylic acid (pregnancy safer). More soothing and calming focus. Good for sensitive, irritated skin.
Higher salicylic acid concentration (2%). Contains charcoal and kaolin clay. More focused on acne treatment. No color-changing feature. More intense BHA action.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep lid tightly closed to prevent drying out.
Jar with screw-top lid. Use clean spatula or fingers to avoid contamination.
Yes, 110g is under TSA limits. Secure lid tightly to prevent leakage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo, this mask is NOT recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It contains salicylic acid (BHA), which should be avoided during pregnancy. While the concentration is low and it's a wash-off product, it's best to consult your healthcare provider and consider alternatives like the AXIS-Y Mugwort mask or Origins Clear Improvement which don't contain BHA.
No, this mask is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains lauric acid and polyglyceryl-10 stearate, which are potential triggers for malassezia folliculitis. If you have fungal acne, look for masks specifically formulated without fatty acids and esters, or use the folliculitisscout.com ingredient checker.
Since this mask already contains salicylic acid (BHA), avoid using it on the same day as other strong actives like retinol, vitamin C serums, or AHA products to prevent over-exfoliation and irritation. Use on alternate days from your active treatments, or wait at least 24 hours between uses.
This mask works best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The charcoal and kaolin clay effectively absorb excess sebum without over-drying. It's also suitable for normal and sensitive skin (hypoallergenic formula), but those with very dry skin should use sparingly and follow with extra hydration.
You'll notice immediate results after the first use - skin feels smoother, cleaner, and pores appear temporarily minimized. With consistent use 2-3 times weekly for 2-4 weeks, you should see reduced blackheads, less oiliness, and improved skin texture. Pore size changes are temporary and require ongoing use.
Use this mask after cleansing but before the rest of your routine. Apply to clean, dry skin, leave for 5-10 minutes until it turns white, then rinse off. Follow with toner, serum, and moisturizer. Use 2-3 times per week, preferably in your evening routine.
No, this mask has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. It's specifically designed to unclog pores rather than clog them. The charcoal and clay ingredients help draw out impurities while the salicylic acid keeps pores clear. It's unlikely to cause breakouts for most skin types when used as directed.
The mask has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for best results. Store in a cool, dry place with the lid tightly closed. If the texture changes significantly, develops an off smell, or separates, discontinue use.
Verdict: The COSRX Pink Pore Clarifying Charcoal Mask delivers an enjoyable, effective at-home spa experience with its unique color-changing formula. It excels at deep cleansing pores and controlling oil without the harsh drying effects of many clay masks, thanks to its hydrating hyaluronic acid complex. The combination of charcoal, calamine, and salicylic acid makes it particularly well-suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. While it won't permanently shrink pores (no product can), it provides immediate visible results and long-term skin texture improvements with regular use. The main limitations are its unsuitability for pregnancy and fungal acne sufferers. At its price point, it offers excellent value compared to premium alternatives like Origins.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 2 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Silica
Absorbent, Abrasive
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Kaolin
Abrasive, Absorbent, Anticaking Agent, Bulking Agent, Opacifying, Skin Protecting, Slip Modifier, Cosmetic Colorant
|
Ache-fighting
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Diatomaceous Earth
Abrasive
|
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|