UPDATE (24/10/15): I have found the GlamGlow YouthMud to be TOO ABRASIVE for my skin and had been a contributing factor to my breakouts a while ago. However, the GlamGlow Supermud is indeed fairly effective. But for the price point of both products, you're much better off getting a tub of Aztec Indian Healing Clay Mask off iherb. Trust me, that's more effective :)
After reading tons and tons of reviews on the GlamGlow masks for months, I caved in and bought these babies. I initially wanted the GlamGlow Supermud mask, but it was out of stock in EVERY SINGLE Sephora store here in Singapore. The SA told me that the closest to the Supermud was the Youthmud, and they were having a 15% discount for it until the end of October, so I picked it up anyway.
A few days ago (in early November... That was how long I took to complete this post haha), I received a mailer from Sephora and guess what! The Supermud mask has been restocked! Yipeeeee. Received a 10% discount together with my Sephora Black card upgrade, so I just went ahead with the purchase. I even got a deluxe size Thirstymud sample and a Brightmud sample. NOT A BAD DEAL.
Let's start with the Youthmud review! (rubs palms together)
Firstly, the Youthmud smells DIVINE, to me at least. The scent smells luxurious, it's a very fresh green tea scent which I major love. I feel very relaxed and pampered when I use it, like I'm indeed at a facial. The texture of the Youthmud is gritty, and its full of green tea chunks. I know many people have had issues with it falling out when the mask has dried up, but I haven't experienced it thus far. I apply a thin layer with a synthetic foundation brush and I find that I use less product but just enough to cover my face this way.
I must say, the first time I went Sephora to check the mask out, the SA smeared some on the back of my hand and my skin actually BURNED. After she cleansed it, the portion where the mask was left on was actually red. She scooped a fair bit of sample from the pot for me to try, so despite the burning sensation I felt on my hand, I went back home and slapped the mask on excitedly. I must say the burning sensation wasn't actually THAT BAD on my face. It was tingly enough, I mean hey it's called 'tinglexfoliate mask' for a reason right. Went back the next day and purchased the full size jar... I think I actually have a dying need to get what I want no matter what happens hahaha.
I would say, steer clear from this mask if you have very very sensitive skin. You definitely would not like the burning sensation. It does get better with subsequent uses though. It gives you this lovely glow for about 2 days? So it is good as an 'emergency facial' if you have an event or a night out, but is unable to fork out extra time to head down to the facial parlour. In fact, I do love this mask more than the Supermud, just because the results are fairly instant.
Next, lo and behold the most coveted mask of all, the Supermud mask.
I have heard so many good things about this, probably made me expect much more from it. Firstly, I DO NOT like the smell. It smells a little like sour plum and licorice and what not. Definitely not my cup of tea. I know everyone has been raving about how it actually sucks the gunk out of your pores and you could actually see it with its revolutionary POREMATRIX technology. It just feels gratifying to see those black dots and you'll be like YES GOT YOU NASTIES OUT!
What I do feel about the Supermud as a full face mask, is that it does slightly close your pores and clears those gunks that are nearer to the surface of the skin, and in fact is much gentler as compared to the Youthmud, as it is less gritty. However, it leaves my skin a little dry when I'm done with the maximum 20 minutes treatment. I always make sure to follow up with a slightly better moisturiser to keep my skin hydrated.
BUT WAIT FOR IT.
What I really love about the Supermud is to use it as: A SPOT TREATMENT!
Each time I feel that a nasty blind pimple is coming up, or if I start to break out a little after a massive workout session, I'll dab the Supermud on those angry spots and they will subside the next morning! Major love.
Which would I recommend then?
If you do not have acne-prone skin and your skin is not sensitive, go for the Youthmud as it gives you a glow that you can be addicted to.
If you have acne-prone and oily skin, go for the Supermud! You can not only use it as a weekly mask, but also as a super effective spot treatment.
With that being said, these aren't products that I think you would have to run out to grab one to add it into your routine, but it's nice to have. Moreover at SGD$92 per bottle, it doesn't come cheap at all. But let me know remind you that as of 21 November, both the Youthmud and Supermud are SOLD OUT at all Sephora outlets again. (Secretly thankful I got mine...) Fret not! Tangs and escentials @ Paragon do carry them so for those of you who are interested in getting your hands on one, do check those stores out!
With love,
A