What are the benefits of activated charcoal for the skin?

Charcoal was first used in 1811 for medical purposes to counteract the effects of a lethal dose of arsenic trioxide. The combustion of carbon-rich materials such as wood, coconut, or bamboo provides charcoal. This is referred to as " activated charcoal " when the combustion is carried out under intense heat. A very high temperature leads to the expulsion of carbon atoms, which leaves room for pores. This porous structure is similar to a sponge and explains the high absorption capacity of activated charcoal.

In the field of cosmetics, activated charcoal has been experiencing a real surge in popularity among consumers in recent years. Particularly present in many masks and soaps, it provides several benefits to the skin:

• It eliminates impurities.

  Activated charcoal is capable of absorbing toxins and impurities present on the skin's surface. Therefore, it is particularly beneficial to use a product containing activated charcoal if you live in a polluted environment to purify and detoxify the skin.

• It absorbs excess sebum.

  An accumulation of sebum can clog pores, leading to the formation of skin imperfections such as blackheads and/or closed comedones. By absorbing excess sebum, activated charcoal prevents the appearance of pimples and mattifies oily skin. It provides the skin with a burst of radiance and evens out the complexion.

• It gently exfoliates the skin.

  Activated charcoal has agranular texture yet gentle enough to perform a light mechanical peeling of the skin. It removes dead cells from the skin's surface, thereby stimulating cellular renewal.

In cosmetic application, activated charcoal does not present any dangers. It is rather suitable for combination to oily skin as well as for blemished skin due to its ability to absorb sebum and purify the epidermis. This cosmetic ingredient is not particularly recommended for dry skin as it could potentially dry them out further.

You can use our purifying cleansing care with activated charcoal for the face and body. It is derived from the cold saponification process, made in France, and contains 100% naturally sourced ingredients.

The purifying face mask with charcoal and nettle cleanses the skin without drying it out, regulates sebum production, and fights against blemishes. It contains sebum-regulating nettle, pine charcoal for a matte finish, and green clay for purification.

• WANG XIUFANG TIAN YONG. A novel material, bamboo charcoal, and its new application in cosmetics.

• NOR ASFALIZA A. & et al. Synthesis and characterization of active biochar material for use in cosmetics and personal care products. Key Engineering Materials (2020).