If there's one thing Origins just seems to get, it's making targeted skincare products that get specific jobs done. They don't subscribe to the 'one product fits all' method of masking and have quite a variety to address individual skin concerns. For Christmas I received this trio of Origins masks from my lovely sister-in-law, Mary, and I've been playing around with them ever since. I picked them up whenever I thought there was something they could help with and I think I've finally nailed down how they work best for me and what they each really help with.

Clear Improvements Active Charcoal Mask
I've had this mask on my wishlist for quite a while. Beauty bloggers are always raving about its deep cleaning powers and how fantastic it is for oily, clogged pores. The inky black mask has a creamy texture that makes it really easy to slather across your skin and it dries and hardens like a traditional mask. When washing off the mask I expected my skin to feel a bit tight and parched, as is common with deep cleansing masks, but my face actually felt plump and soft. And in terms of the deep cleansing powers, my pores felt clean, my skin clearer and the blackheads on my nose were less noticeable.
Best For: Deep cleansing your pores and soaking up excess oil.

Out of Trouble 10 Minute Mask
This was the first mask I tried from the trio in hopes of clearing some problem spots on my face. The mask is white with an almost whipped, creamy texture and a strong scent reminiscent of Icy Hot. It goes on evenly and dries fairly quickly. I didn't really see immediate results but my skin did look clean and I was actually really surprised by how soft it felt, even the next morning. It didn't make my blemishes disappear but it made them a bit less noticeable and reduced redness and swelling. This is the kind of mask that's a good all-rounder when you're just looking for a bit of a pick-me-up for your skin.
Best For: Soothing blemishes/trouble spots and calming skin.

Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask
This was the one mask in the trio that I really didn't think I would get much use out of because my skin is usually so oily. While trying out an acne spot treatment this past month my skin became extremely dry and flaky and my makeup just refused to apply well. I slathered on this clear, gel-like mask before bed and woke up with hydrated, smooth skin that made the perfect base for makeup in the morning. The mask smells deliciously fruity—like apricots—and because you just slap it on and sleep it's really a low-maintenance life saver for parched skin.
Best For: Moisturizing dry or dehydrated skin. 


Have you tried any masks from Origins? What do you usually look for in a mask? I'd love to hear from you!