With a well-deserved cult following, Charcoal is one of the most universally beneficial ingredients in the skincare industry. Detoxifying and purifying, it is also cooling and soothing with magical pore refining properties. Just last week, I was generously invited to the Ling Spa in New York City to experience their recent menu addition: The Charcoal Facial. In related news, my skin has been glowing ever since, which officially makes this amazing treatment the dirtiest trick in my book.
Readily available, charcoal infused face masks are offered by both drugstore and luxury brands these days. A fan of all, my constantly congested combination skin always benefits from a deep cleanse and a purging ritual. The Charcoal Facial at Ling Spa, however, is not something you can play with at home. Performed by a licensed aesthetician, this is a methodical multi-step process. Living up to its spa grade renoma, the results were beyond impressive.
After a proper cleanse, the Charcoal Facial continues with Hibiscus and Papaya Enzyme Peels to decongest and remove surface buildup from the skin. These gentle yet effective botanical compounds use Alpha Hydroxy Acids and enzymes to speed up cellular turnover that promotes a healthy looking complexion. Lightly massaged gave shape back to my face and honestly, I didn’t want it to end. Next, a full on steam bath followed by thorough and painless extractions.
A soft drying Herbal Clay Clarifying Mask was then applied to detoxify and tighten my pores. Warm towel treatments in between each step. Perfection. Creamy and soothing, the Ginseng Herbal Moisturizing Mask was brushed on to comfort and prep for the big finale. Without rinsing, the professionally mixed active charcoal went on directly over the Ginseng Mask. Thick and slightly runny, this fast drying black mask rubberizes without causing any discomfort–and it peels off in one piece. The effect? All post-shaving redness and irritation was gone from my neck immediately. Because charcoal absorbs 100-200 of its weight in toxins, the smoothness of your skin resembles glass. Tighter, plumper and beaming with radiance, I stepped out of Ling Spa ready to be seen.
Those lucky enough to live in close proximity to ‘the city’ must treat themselves to this 90 minute experience ($260). After strongly bonding with my phenomenal aesthetician, I highly recommend you book the treatment with Cherry. Visit the Union Square location and combine it with the Blue Water Grill Happy Hour – can’t beat the deal on oysters!
If visiting the Big Apple is not on your agenda, or a facial doesn’t fit your budget, you can still get your Ling fix. Nothing boosts a skincare regimen like the brand’s iconic Hydrator formula and every skin type will benefit from it greatly. This rich liquid combines uber hydrating Hyaluronic Acid with soothing Rose Water, which makes it the most elegant toner infusion hybrid. Fast absorbing and lightly scented, this as pure as it gets formula instantly balances and revives skin after cleansing. Grab a bottle (it’s massive) for $40 at lingskincare.com
