Review: Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask

I ran into this mask when I went to Korea last summer. I was only familiar with the Innisfree Jeju Volcanic Pore Clay Mask as it was the original product. I didn't do any further research to find out that it has a counterpart because I didn't really like the Innisfree Jeju Volcanic Pore Clay Mask. I found it too weak. It didn't brighten my face and it didn't tighten my pores. It didn't really seem to suck much of the impurities that clay masks are known to do. So when I saw these two clay masks side by side, I asked an Innisfree store attendant what the differences were and he told me that Jeju Volcanic Pore Clay Mask was for drier skin whereas the Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask was for oilier skin types who needed more pore refinement. So I took the plunge and bought one to try!

Description (from innisfreeworld.com):

• 1. What is Super Volcanic Pore Mask Jeju volcanic clay is made with the Jeju volcanic mineral from the explosion of Jeju volcano. It's an alkalescence resource, categorized as a preserved resource, and is effective in removing sebum and other impurities. (Contains 6,020mg of Jeju volcanic clay) 
• 2. Strong removal of sebum through the Super Volcanic Capsule As the capsule bursts, its exfoliates any dead skin cells. AHA element helps chemical exfoliation and smoothes out the skin. 
• 3. Clear & Refreshing Pore Contraction! Strong absorption of sebum and cooling effect of the clay refreshes the skin and contracts pores.
• Super Volcanic Clay vs Original Volcanic Clay - Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask : For those with various pore concerns! Volcanic Pore Clay Mask [Original] : For those with excessive sebum!

My impression:

This was a much more effective mask than its counterpart, Innisfree Jeju Volcanic Pore Clay Mask. First, I noticed a visible decrease in the appearance of my pores. As I was washing my face, I noticed that it was much smoother and there were less bumps. I saw some brightening, better than its counterpart, but still not as dramatic as the Origins Active Charcoal Mask, which is my HG clay mask. I would also say that it's brightening effect is not as good as Belif First Aid Deep Pore Care Mask. This makes me wonder if its not as effective in removing impurities.

This mask is thick! It's much thicker than its counterpart. In fact, I think it's the thickest mask I've ever used. I guess in a sense you get the best bang for your buck, but the problem is this mask dries up really easily. Every time I open the jar to use it, I feel like it's gotten harder. And if it's getting drier, does that mean it's not as effective?

The mask is also not smooth. I assume this is the volcanic clay, and also probably helps with physical exfoliation (though the product description only talks about chemical exfoliation). Finally, it has a minty feeling when you wash off the mask. It's a bonus, I guess, but I don't really care for it.

Since this version is for oilier skin types, it is definitely more drying than the Jeju Volcanic Pore Clay Mask. It's not as drying as Origins Active Charcoal Mask, but I would recommend people with dry skin follow the product recommendations and use the Jeju Volcanic Pore Clay Mask

Summary:

Minimizes pores, smoothes skin, and removes impurities on face better than its counterpart, Innisfree Jeju Volcanic Pore Clay Mask, but at the cost of drier skin
Thick mask and dries up very easily so you need to use it up fast
Brightening effect still not as good as Origins or Belif's clay masks
$17 for 100ml on eBay or $20+tax on innisfreeworld.com

Quality: 4/5 because it works but it doesn't brighten very well so that makes me wonder if its effective at removing impurities
Value: 4/5 because it's an effective and inexpensive product but it dries up quite easily

Repurchase? I'm still undecided about this one. I guess if I can't even finish one jar without it becoming a block of clay on me, then I won't repurchase