First off, let me start by saying I LOVE Origins. Generally, I have really liked all the products I have tried from the brand. (Hello, charcoal mask, I love you!)
So, when I got the May 2016 Sephora Play Box (read about it here), although they were single use sample packets instead of deluxe sized, I was looking forward to trying the Origins Maskimizer mask primer and Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask. There was also a packet of the Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask, but I already knew it’s fabulous!
The Maskimizer is supposed to be a skin-optimizing product that is used as a primer before applying your mask to enhance the effects of said mask. It’s also supposed to improve the spreadability and rinseability, making masking a breeze!
Just FYI- I’ve had 70% glycolic peels, used the harshest possible scrubs, etc. So, I’m no wuss, and neither is my skin. But, when I sprayed the Maskimizer onto my face, as instructed, it BURNED. I mean, it really, really stung and burned like a mother******. Sorry for the strong language, but it BURNED. But, a quick look in the mirror, and I was assured my skin was still intact.
I first decided to use the included charcoal mask, to see if it really did enhance the performance and results. If so, the burning would be worth it! It DID make the mask go on MUCH more smoothly. However, it was NOT easy to remove! I had never had any problems removing this specific product in the past, but after having used the Maskimizer, I literally had to scrub, very hard, to get the mask off!
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So, I waited a few hours for my skin to calm down and decided to try the Maskimizer again, but this time with the Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask, since it was near bedtime. Again, the Maskimizer BURNED. Ugggh… but all worth it to have great skin, right…?!?!?
The Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask smelled SO. GOOD. I mean, I wanted to just keep slathering it all over. I wanted to roll around in it. It smelled like fruity candy of some sort. OMG. Mmmmm… yummy!!!!! At least this seemed like it would be a winner!
WRONG. After wiping off the excess mask, as directed by the instructions, my face was sticky. Sticky like a kid who had gotten that sweet smelling, sugary candy everywhere. I waited a while for the stickiness to go away, thinking it would sink it. It never sank in, the stickiness never went away. After about two hours, I told Jerry to feel my face. He was like, OMG, WTF…?
Jerry compared my face to being tarred and feathered. He said if I went outside and it was windy, all sorts of debris would be stuck to my face. He said it would be REALLY bad if we were at the beach, because then my face would look like a sand sculpture…lol! Finally, he said that if I didn’t wash the sticky stuff off before bed, and I turned over in my sleep, that my face would be stuck to the pillow and I would suffocate. Point taken, Jerry, point taken… I washed my face.
Granted, my skin was soft after I washed off the mask, but there is no way I could have possibly left that stuff on overnight. As for the Maskimizer spray, I can only guess from the burning that it contains a high amount of alcohol. If that’s the case, then I don’t see how it can enhance a mask. Alcohol causes the skin to swell, and produces a tightening effect with the pores. So, the great ingredients in your mask will be LESS absorbed than without the primer.
Unfortunately, it seems the Maskimizer is purely a gimmick created to capitalize on the popularity of masks and primers; and the Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask just isn’t for me. I will continue to LOVE Origins Checks and Balances face wash, and the charcoal mask. I’m also looking forward to trying more from Origins, because I think the odds are unlikely that there will be much more I don’t like.
I would LOVE to hear if you’ve had a good experience with Maskimizer or Drink Up. Have you tried these products? Scroll down to comment below!
I got the primer and I thought it burned too, so I took it back. I know what you mean because I really wanted to love it too. But now I do want to try that charcoal mask. It looks lovely!
Oh no! I’m so disappointed- I know they probably put a lot of thought and tons of research into it, so I’m sad that I haven’t heard many positive thoughts on it. Yes, definitely try the charcoal mask- it’ fabulous!!!
I got the same thing in my Play box and I had bad luck with it too. The spray really did burn my face alot and it didn’t work good with either of the masks. I didn’t like the charcoal one either but now after I read your review I might try it again without the spray. The sleep mask was real sticky on me too and my hair kept sticking to my face!
Oh, no! I really love Origins, so I hope I can find at least a few people who really like it. But, yes, definitely try the charcoal mask again without the primer, I think you’ll really like it! 🙂