Charcoal in Skincare_ The Benefits of This Superpower Ingredient.

Charcoal in Skincare: The Benefits of This Superpower Ingredient

Whether it’s in sheet form, the peel-off variety, or cream, there’s no denying that facial masks have taken the beauty and skincare world by storm. With so many options available, it can be difficult to choose the right one for your specific skin needs—especially if you’re looking for natural, effective ingredients rather than products laden with harmful chemicals.

One of the skincare ingredients that have caught the attention of consumers and brands alike is charcoal. When people hear of a charcoal face mask, reactions are often mixed, ranging from piqued interest to doubt. After all, how can charcoal possibly benefit the skin?

If you’re curious about the effectiveness of this superpower ingredient, then here’s everything you need to know!

How is Charcoal Used in Skincare?

It’s important to distinguish between the kind of charcoal that is used in products such as toothpaste, soaps, and skincare ingredients and the kind that you toss into the grill for a barbeque. Although both have similar qualities, the kind used in skincare products is known as activated charcoal, which is a medical-grade ingredient.

Like regular charcoal, activated charcoal is highly absorbent and can hold its own mass in toxic materials over a thousand times. This characteristic allows charcoal-infused skincare products to draw out any skin impurities for cleaner pores, reduced sebum, and more effective absorption of other products.

People who have oily skin are especially prone to gunk building up in their pores, which causes blackheads and whiteheads. Using a charcoal face wash or a charcoal face mask in their skincare regimen will help them absorb the excess oil to prevent future skin problems.

Charcoal doesn’t just absorb impurities. It also soothes and heals irritated skin. People suffering from acne wounds or are prone to irritation will benefit from using a skincare product with activated charcoal.

How Does Charcoal Compare to Clay?

Another popular ingredient that is often compared to charcoal facial masks is clay. It is also beneficial in that it contains minerals and draws toxins out of the skin to deeply cleanse. Both charcoal and clay products help exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin to give off a cleaner appearance—giving a look of tighter pores and a more evenly brighter complexion.

There are several types of clay with various benefits that you can use if you choose to incorporate this into your skincare routine. Bentonite clay is excellent for extremely oily skin that needs serious help with drawing out excess oil and impurities, while French green clay leaves your pores feeling tighter and softer with its mineral-rich properties. Rose clay is ideal for more sensitive and dry skin and contains antioxidants and anti-aging ingredients. Kaolin is the mildest of all the clays and doesn’t draw out oils. Instead, it works to reduce the production of sebum and stimulates skin healing.

How to Use Charcoal and Clay Masks

The key to reaping the full benefits of these masks is to use them properly. Masking too often can cause irritation and dryness—leading to more breakouts, drier skin, and a compromised moisture barrier.

Charcoal masks can be used anywhere between one to three times per week. Those with oily skin may adjust this frequency depending on how their oil glands respond to the mask treatment. Apply a generous layer of the charcoal facial mask, leave it on for ten to fifteen minutes, and then rinse with lukewarm water. Make sure to dry your face gently with a soft washcloth.

On the other hand, clay masks are a little bit more intense than charcoal masks, which is why you should only use them once per week. Using this extra-absorbent type of mask can dry out your skin and cause more issues if done incorrectly. To use, apply a light layer and leave it on for about thirty minutes—or until it is almost dry. While it’s still somewhat tacky, rinse off your clay mask!

Conclusion

While both types of masks are excellent for the skin, most skin types can benefit from the effects of skincare ingredients that use charcoal. Face masks are a way to cleanse and reset the skin so that it remains clean, fresh, and more receptive to other natural skincare ingredients. By religiously applying a mask, such as our very own Activated Charcoal and French Clay Mask, you’ll notice a brighter complexion and softer skin start to emerge—allowing you to face daily challenges with even more confidence!

Are you looking for one of the best charcoal masks you can get in the market today? Here at Beauty Rehab Rx, we develop beauty products differently with our solutions-oriented approach. Our products specifically target skin problems that our clients need help with. Shop for our charcoal masks, anti-aging serums, and face creams today!