I have a confession to make. Before buying and first using Michael Todd's Pumpkin Nutrient Rich Facial Mask, I hadn't bothered to read up about it. Clearly, I'd clapped eyes on the 'nutrient-rich' bit and I was sold. Neglecting to do my research before diving into use, I expected my skin to be enveloped in a comforting, nourishing cuddle. Wow, did I get a shock when I liberally slathered this all over my face.

Michael Todd are a brand known to steer clear of cheaper, 'filler' ingredients, such as mineral oil, alcohol and even water. Ignoring other beauty brands, they leave out all the nasties and shun any potentially harmful additions. Instead, they pack their products with as many natural, organic extracts, from plants and fruit, as possible. Plus, they don't test on animals and some products are even certified vegan, with this pumpkin mask being one of them!

Don't be fooled, this face mask packs a punch in the skincare stakes. Usually, a treatment picks one theme and runs with it, but the list of what this mask apparently does, is endless. Michael Todd's claims promise exfoliation, moisturisation, firming, unclogging of pores, improved elasticity, a radiance boost and last, but certainly not least, significantly improved appearance of fine lines/wrinkles. Packed full of Glycolic Acid, enzymes, anti-oxidants, vitamins, minerals and practically everything that sounds like it would do us some good, it sounds like it might be the only skin treatment we'll ever need! That's a hard working, miracle product, right there! But, does it live up to the vast array of claims?


With the packaging stating that the formula moisturizes and nourishes, I envisaged this mask as having a thick, creamy consistency. Instead, it has an odd kind of texture. With the consistency of pumpkin puree, or the less appealing baby food, it can be difficult to get an even application over the entire face, thanks to a few lumpy bits (yum!). Strangely, the mask contains lots of sharp grains, which can feel scratchy if you rub the mask in too vigorously. I'd recommend smoothing it on with a light touch, to avoid irritating the delicate skin.

 Thanks to a serving of AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids), in the form of 5% Glycolic Acid, the Michael Todd Pumpkin Nutrient Rick Facial Mask is super-charged to deliver effective results. In an instant, any dryness is eaten away, leaving behind a totally smooth surface. Out of all the exfoliating products I've ever used, from face scrubs to chemical toners, this mask has the most immediate effect. But, if used too often, I find myself left looking like a tomato. As I'm only 23, wrinkles aren't too much of an issue for me yet, so I can't really comment on how this mask works to tackle those. But, if it has such a strong effect on dry skin, I can well believe that it could help to diminish them. Being so effective at ridding the face of flakey bits, skin looks glowing once you rinse all of that fruity gunk off. I wouldn't say that it's intensely hydrating, but it doesn't dry my skin out out or leave it feeling tight and in desperate need of moisturiser afterwards. When following up with the rest of my skincare regime, all of the products absorb beautifully, creating a perfectly polished base for makeup.

If I have any broken skin, then it can sting on application, but it soon settles. If you have very sensitive skin, or it's super oily, then you may want to find a mask that is much gentler, or choose a different method of exfoliation. As this is such a powerful product, I reserve this mask for when my skin really needs a boost and I wouldn't use it more than once a week. When you're trying any new facial treatment for the first time I'd definitely suggest doing a patch test before use, just to check you aren't allergic to the ingredients or react badly to it. Better to be safe than sorry.

Have you tried any products from Michael Todd?

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