how to use activated charcoal powder for face

Charcoal has been a magical substance that has cured blackheads and purifies your skin from deep and promotes healthy and clean skin. It has been in the trend for a few years now, people earlier didn’t even know about the existence of charcoal or its benefits. But the “black” magic has surprised everyone with its properties.

Charcoal face mask, not only helps you get rid of dust and unwanted things from your skin but also helps your teeth to whiten and get stronger and fresh-looking.

In today’s time, charcoal has taken the stage and has been a prestige ingredient in skincare.

What is activated charcoal?

As its name suggests activated charcoal represents charcoal containing active elements. It activates when a high heat exposure increases its purity and increases its surface area. Activated charcoal is therefore porous and can absorb toxins, and this ingredient is known as an antioxidant for the skin. This jet-black powder is effective for binding to the tiny pores which accumulate underneath the skin and build up dirt and chemicals. The ingredients used in this product are natural materials such as wood shells, coconut, wood fiber, and coal. The skin can be easily protected with natural ingredients.

 

Benefits Of Choosing Charcoal

1. It promotes healthy skin as it helps in deep cleansing, by removing all the dirt from the pores.

2. Charcoal mask also helps in clearing out blackheads and also helps in exfoliating the skin.

3. Its regenerating and rejuvenating properties keep your face in becoming healthy and shiny.

4. With the great properties it also is great for detoxifying and nourishing your face.

 

Charcoal benefits for skin

In terms of skincare benefits, activated charcoal can act as a natural alternative to chemical peels which can be harsh on the skin. This detoxifying ingredient works to absorb excess oil and dirt from the face, revealing clearer skin. Also, it is important to point out that charcoal is great for oily skin, but also for sensitive skin, dry skin, and combination skin.

Removes dead skin cells

Charcoal opens up the pores which can help to prevent acne. When used regularly, activated charcoal can also help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

Removes impurities

Whether it's a few blemishes or more severe issues such as eczema, activated charcoal can help to remove impurities that your skin may be harboring. It also pulls out dirt and excess oil which leads to clogged pores and breakouts.

Reduces blackheads

If you are prone to blackheads, you will appreciate the ability of activated charcoal to bind to these impurities and remove them from the skin. It is gentle yet effective for removing blackheads when used consistently. So, whether you are looking to improve your skin's texture and tone or simply remove the appearance of blemishes, activated charcoal can be a great option.

Cleanse excess oil

If you are struggling with excess oil and a buildup of dirt on your face, activated charcoal is an excellent option to help combat these issues. You can use it in conjunction with your regular skincare routine or use it as a mask to give your skin a deeper clean.

Treats acne

If you have acne-prone skin or oily skin, charcoal masks or beauty products that contain this natural ingredient should be your pick. Namely, charcoal is effective in absorbing excess oil which is one of the causes of acne.

Exfoliates the skin

If you want to get rid of dead skin cells and reveal brighter skin, look no further than activated charcoal. This natural exfoliant can help to remove impurities that dull the complexion.

Treats insect bites

If you have been stung by a bee or mosquito, activated charcoal can help to soothe the area and reduce swelling. Simply apply a small amount of charcoal to the affected area and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing with water.

Soothes sunburns

If you have spent too much time in the sun, activated charcoal can also be used to treat sunburn symptoms such as redness and irritation. To soothe your skin, simply mix together one teaspoon of powdered charcoal, a few drops of aloe vera gel, and 4 ounces of water.

 

 

How to use activated charcoal in skincare?

Cleansers

You can find skincare products that contain activated charcoal such as face wash, bar soap, and body wash.

Scrubs

Activated charcoal scrub is a great way to incorporate charcoal in skincare. Simply mix together these ingredients:

½ cup organic raw sugar

4 tablespoons olive oil (from your pantry)

½ tablespoon activated charcoal powder

½ tablespoon bentonite clay

Massage into the skin for a few minutes before rinsing with warm water.

Face masks

Another popular way to use activated charcoal is in masks. You can find pre-made options or make your own by mixing together 1/2 teaspoon of activated charcoal with 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel. This one removes deeper impurities because aloe vera, a natural ingredient that is great for sensitive skin, just as for dry skin. One of the most important DIY recipes with activated charcoal is the mask for acne.

 

Conclusion

Activated charcoal has adsorbent properties that make it useful for medical professionals to use in the emergency room for poisoning. However, there is little evidence to support its use as a skin care ingredient, and manufacturers base claims on its general detoxification properties.

If a person wants to try an activated charcoal product on their skin, it is usually safe to do so, but they need to discontinue using it if the product irritates. In addition, it is important not to take activated charcoal internally unless they receive guidance from a doctor.

References

Atamanto, D., et al. (2021). Application of activated charcoal from coconut shell waste for the manufacture of skin lightening creams and the mechanism of the process.
https://aip.scitation.org/doi/pdf/10.1063/5.0044371

Kulkarni, S. V., et al. (2019). Formulation and evaluation of activated charcoal peel off mask.
http://ijccts.org/fulltext/17-1558929589.pdf

Sanchez, N., et al. (2020). Charcoal: An ancient material with a new face [Abstract].
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0738081X19301361?via%3Dihub

Schwarcz, J. (2017). Charcoal is one of the most important substances ever discovered.
https://www.mcgill.ca/oss/article/environment-health/charcoal-one-most-important-substances-ever-discovered

Soto, P. (n.d.). Activated charcoal: An effective treatment for poisonings.
https://www.poison.org/articles/activated-charcoal

Zellner, T., et al. (2019). The use of activated charcoal to treat intoxications.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6620762/