We tried the full body mask: here's what we thought

At Skincare.com, we love making masks. face masks, sheet masks, hair masks, whatever, we've tried (and we obviously don't make a distinction). These spa treatments are kept on hand for our weekly—daily, if we're optimistic—skin care rituals at home. But now we need to add a much-touted newcomer to our concealer rotation—hint: it targets skin below the shoulders.

Introducing body masks. These full body treatments have long been on the menu of spas around the world, but more recently they have made their way into our personal skincare routines. Depending on the formula you choose, body masks can offer the same benefits as their facial counterparts—moisturizing, exfoliating, detoxifying, and more—meaning arms, legs, hands, and feet need extra care. Who ever said that facial skin should get all the love for disguise? We didn't know for sure. Our friends at The Body Shop sent us their Spa of the World Himalayan charcoal body clay to sample. “Never miss a little time for yourself,” I wrote in pencil in SPA night do it yourself and quickly set to work. 

If you have hyperemic skin below your shoulders, this body elixir could be your new remedy. The formula, as the name suggests, is a combination of charcoal and kaolin clay, known for their absorbent properties. Mask removes impurities and toxins to improve the appearance of the skin. I always strive to make skin look brighter and feel softer to the touch - but really, who doesn't? — so I tried it and hoped it would deep cleanse my skin. Spoiler: it worked.

As indicated in the instructions, I applied the product in a thin layer on the body and paid close attention areas that looked dull and tiredlike the back of my arms, elbows and décolleté. (Tip: You can ask someone to help you with your back if you have short arms. I learned this the hard way.) The scent of the mask is relaxing and not too strong, which is nice because it should stay on the skin for a while. After 10 minutes, I washed it off with warm water under the shower. Immediately my skin was deeply cleansed and smooth. Where has it been all my life? I'm a new body mask addict, and maybe you are too. Don't say I didn't warn you.

The Body Shop Spa of the World Himalayan Charcoal Body Clay, $ 24