Everything you need to know about charcoal's amazing skin benefits.
TL;DR: Charcoal is the wonder kid of skincare.
What the actual charc?
Charcoal, that big black dirty lump you put on the fire or BBQ, can it really be good for your skin? Well, yes, it is.
Actually, it’s a bit of a wonder ingredient to be honest! All natural and super gentle too.
Ok, so it’s not just a case of grabbing a bag of charcoal and rubbing it on your face. You’ll probably know it as Activated Charcoal or Carbon.
Cosmetic grade charcoal is made when regular charcoal is exposed to high temperatures. As a result, it produces a fine powder (activated charcoal) which is porous and highly adsorbent.
So how does Charcoal improve your skin?
1. A Bacteria-Fighting Powerhouse
Activated Charcoal has antibacterial and antifungal properties. This means it can help heal damaged skin as well as draw out bacteria trapped in your pores.
If your pores aren’t cleaned effectively, you risk infection and blockages which can lead to breakouts and blackheads.
Activated charcoal sends bacteria packing, and in turn improves your overall complexion. We’ve made a super charcoal facial mask that our customers love
2. Deep Pore Cleansing
Described as having ‘magnet like properties’ Activated Charcoal is known to draw out impurities and toxins caused from a build-up of dirt and residue from pollution.
It’s used to deep cleanse removing day-to-day impurities and those naughty dead skin cells which love to block your pores. Try our cleansing facial masque for gentle pore cleansing.
Charcoal is also natural and super gentle so a great ingredient to deep cleanse a sensitive skin.
3. Zen, Balanced Skin
Charcoal is an incredibly porous natural ingredient.
With its oil absorbing superpowers Activated Charcoal can unclog your pores. Free of grime and excess sebum, you’ll be less likely to get breakouts and blackheads.
Charcoal is super with a range of skin types: whether you’ve got oily, acne-prone skin, mature or sensitive skin.
But what if you have all of the above? Many suffers of acne may have a pimple-prone face, but dry hands and elbows too.
This is because the skin’s sebum production is out of balance. Many acne skincare products are too harsh for sensitive skins (sometimes they can also be the cause of the sensitivity – ouch).
Want an ingredient that benefits a combo of skin types? Bring in the charcoal!
4. Exfoliate to Perfection
Charcoal is a natural polish. You’ll even find it in whitening toothpastes for its ability to add sparkle and shine.
Its gritty yet soft texture can gently slough off dead skin cells revealing the glow of healthy new fresh skin. Try our lush facial cleansing dough for soft charcoal exfoliation.
Activated charcoal doesn’t cause allergic reactions either, as it’s inert (chemically inactive). That’s another plus for sensitive skin.
5. Soothing & Calming
Charcoal, the gift that keeps on giving. Activated Charcoal can soothe symptoms of skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
It has has been known to help reduce itching bug bites by neutralising the toxins in insect venom, thereby soothing the sting.
In fact, it’s so good at removing toxins that it’s used in hospitals to treat poisoning and drug overdoses. Please always seek advice of a doctor before using charcoal medicinally.
The Verdict
So, in short Charcoal can help improve all over appearance of the skin.
It is used to refresh, brighten, tighten pores & purify a range of skin types.
Ok, so pores can only appear smaller as they can’t actually shrink. However, if you have a consistent skincare routine, you can ensure your pores stay healthy and clear.
In turn you’ll have a great complexion and a healthy glow (without the shine!). What more can you ask for?
Whilst more scientific research is needed on the benefits to the skin, there is no shortage of cosmetic experts proclaiming the benefits of activated charcoal.
With no reported adverse reactions, and proven cleansing powers, why not try and see for yourself!