Isla Apothecary Refine + Radiate Mask

Coconut milk plus turmeric does not always equal curry. Small batch skincare brand Isla Apothecary demonstrates that beautifully with their Refine + Radiate Mask - a blend of red sandalwood, turmeric and coconut powders. The just-add-water dry mask formula is designed to soothe, nurture and restore moisture to the skin in one fell swoop while managing to smell very, very tasty indeed. 

I have a real thing for dry face masks and cleansers that you hydrate yourself, it just makes the whole ritual that little bit more special. Like other dry formulas I've tried, this one can be mixed with water, honey or floral water/hydrosol to create your own bespoke experience. So far I've only tried it with water but I'll be mixing it with honey next time because I pretty much love putting honey on my face.

To use, you blend a teaspoon or so with the liquid of your choice then apply to the face and leave it be for up to 15 minutes. It does dry in this time but to me it didn't feel uncomfortable in the slightest. The mask is removed using warm water and circular movements, which adds a lovely element of gentle exfoliation. While my skin felt incredibly soft and happy after I'd removed the mask, I did have a slightly jaundiced tinge to my skin, which is not unexpected when applying  bright yellow turmeric powder to one's face. The yellow removed really easily with a swipe of toner-soaked cotton wool but would have come off in the shower just as easily if I'd used a flannel on my face after I'd removed the mask. Scent wise, the Beautifying Mask smells deliciously coconutty - a smell that doesn't dissipate as you wear it, which to me just adds to the joy. The Isla Apothecary Refine + Radiate Beautifying Face Mask is a gorgeous little facial treat that I think any natural beauty enthusiast will absolutely love.
The mask is £22 for a 120g jar at Isla Apothecary and you can find out more about the brand and ingredients here.