SUPERMUD® Charcoal Instant Treatment Mask
SUPERMUD® Charcoal Instant Treatment Mask
Product Description
Product overview
A powerful clarifying mud mask featuring a proprietary Super Six Acid Blend (glycolic, salicylic, lactic, mandelic, tartaric, and pyruvic acids) combined with Activated-X Charcoal and K-17 Kaolin Clay to instantly unclog pores, absorb excess oil, and reveal clearer, smoother, Hollywood-ready skin in just 10-20 minutes.
Activated-X Charcoal
Magnetically draws out toxins, dirt, and excess oil from deep within pores up to 500x its volume.
Texture & feel
SENSORYActivated-X Charcoal
Magnetically draws out toxins, dirt, and excess oil from deep within pores up to 500x its volume.
Super Six Acid Blend
Proprietary mix of AHAs and BHAs that work at different speeds on multiple skin layers to unclog pores.
K-17 Kaolin Clay
Premium clay designed to extract and encapsulate excess sebum, bacteria, and toxins.
TEAOXI Eucalyptus
Fresh eucalyptus leaf delivers antioxidants and phytoactives while providing a cooling sensation.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains salicylic acid (BHA). While topical BHA under 2% is generally considered low-risk, this is a leave-on mask (5-20 min). Consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
Contains PEG-12 Dimethicone which may be problematic for some. No major triggers like oils or ferments, but use with caution if highly sensitive to fungal acne.
Rated 1/5 for comedogenicity. Kaolin clay and charcoal are non-comedogenic. Unlikely to clog pores when used as directed.
Contains peppermint oil and eucalyptus which may cause tingling. Product may increase sun sensitivity due to AHAs. Always use sunscreen after treatment.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSActivated-X CharcoalProven
An extreme absorption carbon that attracts toxic substances, dirt, and debris from deep within pores. As the mask dries, visible "pore-matrix" dots appear showing extractions in action.
- Mechanism: Adsorbs impurities up to 500x its volume through microporous structure
- Studies: Activated charcoal is well-documented for adsorption properties in medical and cosmetic applications
Salicylic Acid (BHA)Proven
Oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid that penetrates deep into pores to dissolve sebum, dead skin cells, and debris. The gold standard for treating acne and blackheads.
- Benefits: Unclogs pores, reduces inflammation, antibacterial properties
- Research: Extensively studied for acne treatment with proven efficacy
Glycolic Acid (AHA)Proven
The most researched AHA with the smallest molecular size, allowing deepest penetration. Exfoliates surface dead skin cells to reveal brighter, smoother skin.
- Benefits: Brightens skin, reduces fine lines, improves texture
- Molecular Weight: 76 Da - smallest AHA for maximum penetration
Lactic Acid (AHA)Proven
A gentler AHA derived from fermented lactose that exfoliates while also providing hydration. Helps strengthen skin barrier by promoting ceramide production.
- Benefits: Exfoliates, hydrates, strengthens barrier, reduces hyperpigmentation
- History: Used since ancient times - Cleopatra famously bathed in sour milk
Kaolin Clay (K-17) HighProven
A gentle, premium white clay known for absorbing excess oil without over-drying. GLAMGLOW's proprietary K-17 formulation is designed to extract and encapsulate sebum and toxins.
- Mechanism: Absorbs oil and impurities while maintaining skin's moisture balance
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 - Will not clog pores
Eucalyptus Globulus LeafPromising
Fresh eucalyptus leaves deliver antioxidants, eucalyptol, and natural linalool oil directly into the formula. Provides the signature cooling, refreshing sensation.
- Benefits: Antioxidant protection, antibacterial, aromatherapy benefits
- TEAOXI Technology: Proprietary method to deliver phytoactives from real leaves
37 ingredients
Water, Kaolin, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Mandelic Acid, Charcoal, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf, Tartaric Acid, Pyruvic Acid, Lactic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Powder, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Hedera Helix (Ivy) Extract, Symphytum Officinale (Comfrey) Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Extract, PEG-12 Dimethicone, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Hydroxide, Butylene Glycol, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Hectorite, Hexylene Glycol, Glycerin, Calendula Officinalis Extract, Maltodextrin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Xanthan Gum, Fragrance (Parfum), Limonene, Benzyl Benzoate, Linalool, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Iron Oxides (CI 77499)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse 1-3 times per week after cleansing on dry skin. Can also be used as a spot treatment on problem areas. Best used in the evening due to increased sun sensitivity from acids.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with clean, dry skin. Remove all makeup and impurities with your regular cleanser. Pat skin completely dry.
Apply a Thin Layer
Using clean fingertips or a brush, apply a thin, even layer to face avoiding eye area. A little goes a long way - you don't need a thick layer.
Wait for the Magic
Leave on for 5-20 minutes. You'll feel a tingling sensation as the acids work. Watch for "pore-matrix" dots appearing as charcoal extracts impurities.
Rinse Thoroughly
When mask turns light grey and feels dry, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Gently massage in circular motions to remove all residue.
Follow Up
Apply your favorite toner, serum, and moisturizer. Skin may appear slightly flushed temporarily - this is normal. Always use sunscreen the next morning.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin
- You struggle with blackheads and clogged pores
- You want instant visible pore-clearing results
- You have occasional breakouts or acne-prone skin
- Your skin looks dull and needs a deep clean
- You want a spa-like treatment at home
- You can tolerate tingling/active ingredients
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin
- You have extremely sensitive or reactive skin
- You're allergic to essential oils (peppermint/eucalyptus)
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor first)
- You have active rosacea or eczema flare-ups
- You've had recent chemical peels or laser treatments
- You prefer fragrance-free products
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis mask was made for you. Kaolin clay and charcoal absorb excess oil while acids unclog pores. Leaves skin matte and refreshed without over-drying.
Perfect for targeting oily T-zone while being gentle enough for other areas. Can use as full-face mask or spot treatment on problem zones.
BHA penetrates pores to clear breakouts at the source. Great for blackheads, whiteheads, and preventing future blemishes. Use 1-2x weekly.
Works well as a weekly deep-cleansing treatment to maintain clear pores and bright complexion. May not need frequent use.
May feel too drying for dry skin types. If using, limit to once weekly, leave on for shorter time (5-10 min), and follow with rich moisturizer.
Contains multiple acids plus peppermint and eucalyptus oils that may irritate sensitive skin. Patch test required. Consider gentler alternatives.
Results timeline
4+ WEEKSVisible Pore Extraction
Watch as "pore-matrix" dots appear on the mask showing charcoal actively drawing out impurities. Skin feels tingly and tight as acids work.
95% noticed immediate tighteningCleaner, Smoother Skin
Pores appear visibly smaller and cleaner. Skin feels deeply cleansed, smoother, and looks brighter. Blackheads are noticeably reduced.
85% saw visible improvementReduced Breakouts
With regular use (1-3x weekly), existing breakouts begin to clear and new ones are prevented. Skin texture continues to improve.
78% reported fewer breakoutsTransformed Complexion
Consistent use results in noticeably clearer, more refined pores, balanced oil production, and an overall healthier, more radiant complexion.
82% achieved clearer skinRatings by platform
6K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Visible pore-clearing results after just one use
- Effectively removes blackheads and whiteheads
- Controls oil and mattifies skin
- Unique "pore-matrix" technology shows it working
- Leaves skin feeling deeply cleansed and smooth
- Pleasant cooling eucalyptus/mint sensation
- Works great as a spot treatment
- Vegan and free from major harsh chemicals
Criticized
- Expensive compared to drugstore alternatives
- Can be too drying for dry/sensitive skin
- Strong tingling may be uncomfortable for some
- Contains fragrance and essential oils
- Product can dry out if jar isn't sealed properly
- Small jar size for the price
- Not suitable during pregnancy without consultation
- Counterfeit concerns when buying from third parties
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESContains charcoal and kaolin clay like SUPERMUD but without the six-acid blend. Gentler formula, better for sensitive skin. Doesn't show visible "extraction dots" but still effective for pore cleansing.
Contains charcoal and three types of clay. Similar texture and detoxifying action. Includes glycolic acid for exfoliation. Great drugstore alternative at a fraction of the price.
K-beauty favorite with volcanic clusters from Jeju Island. Excellent pore-minimizing and oil control. More hydrating formula. Larger size (3.38oz) offers better value.
100% natural bentonite clay - mix with apple cider vinegar for DIY mask. Extremely affordable (1 lb jar). No acids or charcoal, but powerful pore-drawing action. More drying than SUPERMUD.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEGLAMGLOW SUPERMUD (Featured)
Origins Clear Improvement
Peter Thomas Roth Irish Moor Mud
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check for the 12M symbol on packaging.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Always close lid tightly after use to prevent drying out.
White jar with screw-top lid. Use a clean spatula to prevent contamination and extend shelf life.
Yes, 50g/1.7oz is under TSA liquid limits. Travel-size tubes (10g, 15g) also available for convenience.
Frequently asked questions
FAQSUPERMUD contains salicylic acid (BHA), which requires caution during pregnancy. While topical salicylic acid in low concentrations is generally considered low-risk by ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists), this mask is left on for 5-20 minutes, increasing potential absorption. It's recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before using this product during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consider switching to pregnancy-safe alternatives like azelaic acid masks.
SUPERMUD is generally considered low-risk for fungal acne but use with caution. It contains PEG-12 Dimethicone, which some fungal acne sufferers may react to. However, it does NOT contain major fungal acne triggers like oils, ferments, fatty acid esters, or polysorbates. The salicylic acid may actually help with fungal acne. If you're highly sensitive, patch test first or choose a verified fungal acne-safe alternative.
SUPERMUD already contains multiple AHAs and BHA (salicylic acid), so avoid layering additional acids on the same day to prevent over-exfoliation. Don't use retinol on the same night as this mask. If using vitamin C in your routine, apply it on alternate days or use vitamin C in the morning and SUPERMUD at night on different days. Listen to your skin - if you experience irritation, redness, or peeling, reduce frequency of all actives.
SUPERMUD is ideal for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It's specifically designed to absorb excess oil, unclog pores, and clear breakouts. Normal skin types can use it as a weekly deep-cleansing treatment. It's NOT recommended for dry, dehydrated, or sensitive skin types as it can be too drying and potentially irritating due to the acids and essential oils.
You'll see immediate results after your first use - skin feels cleaner, smoother, and pores appear smaller. You can literally watch the "pore-matrix" dots appear as charcoal extracts impurities. For long-term improvement in acne, blackheads, and overall skin clarity, consistent use for 2-4 weeks is recommended. Most users report significantly clearer skin and fewer breakouts within one month of regular use (1-3x weekly).
Use SUPERMUD after cleansing on clean, dry skin - it should be the first treatment step before any other products. Apply 1-3 times per week (start with once weekly). After rinsing off, continue with your regular routine: toner, serum, moisturizer, and SPF if daytime. Best used in the evening since the acids increase sun sensitivity. Can also be used as a spot treatment on blemishes.
No, SUPERMUD has a very low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The main ingredients (kaolin clay and charcoal) are non-comedogenic and actually help UNCLOG pores rather than block them. The acids also work to dissolve pore-clogging sebum and dead skin cells. This mask is specifically designed to clear congestion. However, always patch test if you have highly acne-prone skin, as some botanical extracts affect individuals differently.
SUPERMUD has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. To maximize shelf life: always close the lid tightly after use, store in a cool dry place away from humidity (not in the bathroom), use clean hands or a spatula to scoop product, and avoid introducing water into the jar. If the product dries out, becomes discolored, or develops an off smell before 12 months, discontinue use.
Verdict: GLAMGLOW SUPERMUD delivers on its promise of instantly clearer, smoother skin with its innovative six-acid blend and activated charcoal formula. The visible "pore-matrix" extraction effect is uniquely satisfying, and results are genuinely impressive for oily and acne-prone skin types. However, the premium price tag, potential for irritation on sensitive skin, and strong fragrance may not be for everyone. If you have oily or combination skin and can tolerate active ingredients, this Hollywood-favorite mask is worth the splurge. For those on a budget or with sensitive skin, excellent alternatives exist at lower price points.
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 4 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 6 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 3 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Kaolin
Abrasive, Absorbent, Anticaking Agent, Bulking Agent, Opacifying, Skin Protecting, Slip Modifier, Cosmetic Colorant
|
Ache-fighting
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Magnesium Aluminum Silicate
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Absorbent, Opacifying, Anticaking Agent, Slip Modifier
|
|
|
| 1 |
Mandelic Acid
Antimicrobial
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
|
|
| 0 |
Carbon
|
|