Activated Charcoal skincare has found its way into our routines from natural skincare masks, to cleansers and even deodorants. Traditionally taken to rid the body of toxins and bacteria, charcoal has been used both internally and topically for centuries, with records dating back to the Egyptians. Internally it has been used to remove toxins from the stomach before they can be absorbed, see it used for this purpose in the Biocol Labs Something for Bloated Tums.
When used in skincare, a similar principle applies. Activated Charcoal skincare attracts and removes oil and dirt. The secret is to look for activated charcoal. This form increases the surface area of particles and allows it to attract impurities to the skin’s surface. Charcoal holds impurities there in a process called adsorption (as opposed to “absorption”). This action makes dirt and grime all the easier to wash away. To add a detoxing dose into your routine, check out our favourite all natural products harnessing the power of charcoal.
ACTIVATED CHARCOAL SKINCARE
Charcoal can be found in many forms and is often used in cleansers. Use the Soapwalla Activated Charcoal Soap on face and body for all skin types, but acne prone and combination skin will especially love with jet black velvety bar for an SLS free clean. Have a favourite cleanser but want to add the benefits of charcoal skincare into your routine? Konjac Bamboo Charcoal Sponge allows you to do just that. Its activated carbon and minerals enhance the absorptive ability for removing excess oil, making it great for teen skin too. Try pairing it with your favourite natural face wash for gentle exfoliation.
ACTIVATED CHARCOAL FACE MASKS
Charcoal face masks are one of the most common places for this purifying ingredient to be found. Great for helping acne prone skin Bybi Beauty Detox Dust Powder Face Mask pairs with charcoal and kaolin clay to flush and eliminate toxins. The Plant Apothecary Not A Spot Acne Treatment Mask adds antibacterial basil to the mix and can be applied directly to blemishes as an all natural spot treatment. If you are up for something a little spicier, the bamboo charcoal in May Lindstrom the Problem Solver forms a rich mousse containing exotic spices that leave a tingling heat sensation. You can also get your charcoal skincare fix with the Odacite Synergie[4] Immediate Skin Perfecting Beauty Masque. All is needed is a thin layer to get the benefits of its first pore cleansing synergy of clay and activated charcoal.
ACTIVATED CHARCOAL BODY PRODUCTS
Conscious of sustainable charcoal? Look for medicinal-grade charcoal powder sourced from coconut husks, a waste product of food production. That’s what Sister and Co. use in their Raw Coconut & Activated Charcoal Tooth Whitening Polish. It safely tackles plaque, tannins and everyday surface stains. Non-abrasive and without harsh chemicals found in conventional teeth whiteners, we love this pot for brightening up smiles. Activated Charcoal has made its way into natural deodorants too. The Soapwalla Sensitive Deodorant in Lavender and Citrus replaces baking soda with moisture absorbing and bacteria discouraging charcoal. Its dark grey hue rubs in clear and comes in adorable travel sizes too.
Parts of this article were adapted from sections of The Nature of Beauty book by CONTENT founder Imelda Burke.
Further Reading
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