Okay, so let me start by saying I’ve used Sanctuary’s face, body and bath products before and loved them. I bought three new face washes and masks I’d never used before and it didn’t go great. Read on for my reviews on each product.

Warming Detox Charcoal Wash

I was super excited to try this new Charcoal Face Wash, as I’d seen it in every magazine and heard people sing it’s praises. This wash is for normal/combination skin, which I thought would make it ideal for me as I have a combination skin type.

The face wash applies as a thin black gel and once massaged into the skin it becomes a clear, non greasy oil. Upon application it warms up and the heat is meant to help open pores and remove impurities from the skin. Washing the product off my face, my skin looked and felt a bit red and sore like I’d used a facial scrub. I tried this face wash several more times and had the same reaction, plus it’s caused me painful breakouts. I’ve stopped using this product.

There are two photos below, the first of these showing how it applies as a black gel. The second photo shows the wash rubbed into my skin, where it becomes an oil.

5 Minute Thermal Detox Mask

After a bad start with the face wash, my expectations for the Charcoal Face Mask were low. I used this on damp skin and it applied smoothly in a thin, even layer. It heats up more than the face wash and felt pretty pleasant and non-drying. My skin felt fine with this, no redness, but later on the mask made my skin break out.

Below is a photo of the Charcoal Mask.

5 Minute Moisture Boost Mask

My third and final face product was the Moisture Mask. As I have some dry patches, I thought this moisturising mask would quench my thirsty skin. So, the first thing I noticed upon opening this face mask was what a gorgeous rose scent it has. The other two products didn’t smell great, but this one does!

I also noticed for what looks like a small packet, it contains enough product to apply a thick layer of this creamy mask. I smoothed the mixture on to my face and sat back, however, within two minutes my skin felt sore and I could see how red my face was through the mask. Out of the three products this one gave me the worst reaction, as my skin was very sore, red and it broke me out badly again.

Below is a photo of me using the Moisture Mask.

The Charcoal Face Wash and Mask are £9 each and the Moisture Mask is £3. I have to admit I feel disappointed that I spent £21 on products that have made my skin worse, but I guess I can’t love every product I try.

Let me know if you’ve used any of these Sanctuary products.