Review: Burt's Bees Pore-Refining Mask

I am always looking for an effective, affordable way to reduce the appearance of enlarged pores on my nose and the surrounding area. From scrubs to masks, there are many options when shopping for products to minimize or refine pores, but I was surprised to find a great product online instead of at the beauty counter.

Burt's Bees natural products are free of parabens, sulfates, phthalates and petrochemicals. The Burt's Bees Pore-Refining Mask, formerly known as the Green Goddess Clay Mask, contains French green clay and herbs. According to the label, it "deeply cleanses pores and draws out impurities while rematerializing and refining the skin's texture."

Each package costs around $8. The glass jar contains one ounce of powder and includes a small spatula/scoop utensil for mixing the mask.

How to Use Burt's Bees Pore-Refining Mask
These are the instructions on the box:

"Directions: Add enough water* to 1 tablespoon powdered mask to create a thin paste. Apply to face, avoiding the eye area, and rinse off with warm water after 5-10 minutes.

*Or substitute:
carrot juice for mature skin
tomato juice for troubled skin
green tea or grapefruit juice for oily skin."

The directions in the online catalog recommend wearing the mask for 15 minutes and using it once or twice a week.

Burt's Bees Pore-Refining Mask: My Experience
I read through the instructions and warnings on the label. I was a bit concerned to see the pore-refining mask could cause temporary redness lasting about ten to twenty minutes because of increased blood flow.

I prepared the mask in a small bowl. I added extra powder trying to thicken the mask into the mud-like consistency I expected from masks, but soon realized that would probably take the whole jar. I rubbed the watery mask on my face and it stayed in place.

Initially, the minty fragrance was so strong my eyes almost began to water. The scent quickly faded and the mask began to tingle. The dark green mask (think Wicked Witch of the West) dried into a pale green hue after about ten minutes.

It rinsed away quite easily. My face was a bit red, perhaps from rinsing with warm water, but it subsided in a few minutes. My skin felt clean and soft, but not dry and tight. Burt's Bees Pore-Refining Mask lives up to the claims on the package. I noticed an improvement in the size of my pores, especially on my nose.

Additional Info and Tips for Using Burt's Bees Pore-Refining Mask
The jar I purchased contained approximately seven tablespoons of powder.

Start with a small amount of powder and a few drops of water to get the proper consistency.

Take the time to properly mix the mask in a small container.

One mounded scoop measures approximately 1/4 teaspoon.

A medicine cup or similar container is a good size for mixing the mask.

Spot test the mask to make sure it does not irritate your skin.

Don't worry if the pore-minimizer looks too thin. Try applying a small amount to your face before making adjustments.

Try a paintbrush or foundation brush to easily apply the mask.

Room for Improvement
The usage directions are listed on the box and not on the jar itself.

The spatula is great for mixing and spot application, but a double-duty measuring utensil is more practical.

I know what mature and oily skin are, but haven't a clue about "troubled" skin. Overall, the directions should be clear and indicate a suggested measurement for the water.

Burt's Bees prides itself on being a green company. As such, I would like to see eco-friendly refill packets available for this product.

Where to Buy Burt's Bees Pore-Refining Mask
Although stores such as Target, Ulta and Walgreens carry a selection of Burt's Bees products, I have not seen this mask in stores. Many online retailers offer it, though. Since the price is generally around $8, compare shipping costs to find the best deal.

Using a Groupon, I purchased the pore-refining mask from Soap.com for a very reasonable price. Soap.com carries a variety of household essentials, such as soap, toiletries and cleaning products. The site offers free shipping on purchases of $25 or more.

The Burt's Bees website and Amazon also sell the pore-refining mask.