Cleansing with charcoal: should you be doing it?
If you associate charcoal with dirt and pollution, think again. When used on the skin charcoal has incredible cleansing and restorative qualities. You may even notice some of your cleansers, masks or exfoliators are formulated with this miracle ingredient. Charcoal has been used in a variety of cultures in Asia and Africa for centuries which shows that isn’t just trendy but really works. If you still feel skeptical about using the same ingredient you usually associate with barbecuing, we’re here to squash any doubts.
What Is Charcoal And Why Should I Use It?
Charcoal can be found in products you apply topically. This makes it a great product to cleanse skin. It’s also very helpful in removing make up. You should use it because it acts like a magnet in drawing out impurities. While it has the ability to stain clothing, it does not stain your face so don’t be put off by the color.
What Skin Types Should Use Charcoal?
Charcoal works on all skin types but it is particularly effective with oily and acne-prone skin.
How Can I Incorporate Into My Skin Care Routine?
There are many products out there formulated with charcoal. Garnier SkinActive’s Clean+ Blackhead Eliminating Scrubformula with charcoal and salicylic acid helps give skin a smoother appearance and helps cleanse pores. Impurities are lifted from your skin like a magnet. You can use this product daily or a few times per week depending on your skin’s needs. Garnier SkinActive also has two great cleansers formulated with charcoal; one is Garnier SkinActive’s Clean+ Pore Purifying 2-in-1 Clay Cleanser/Mask which has a creamy kaolin clay-based formula, and the other is Garnier SkinActive’s Clean+ Shine Control Cleansing Gel. Both products help clean your pores and leave your skin feeling super soft and shine-free. Garnier SkinActive also has towelettes — use Garnier SkinActive’s Clean+ Purifying Oil-Free Cleansing Towelettes to easily remove makeup and dirt on the go. Pick the best cleanser for your skin type to reveal glowing, healthy-looking skin.
The Perfect Charcoal Skin Care Routine
Now that you know which products you can use formulated with charcoal in them, we are going to outline how you can use them in your skin care routine.
1. Cleanse
Use your cleanser of choice mornings and evenings to get rid of sweat, make up and oil buildup. Massage the cleanser onto wet skin in a circular motion then rinse off. If you feel that there may be residue or make up still on your skin you can choose to do a second round of cleansing to ensure that your skin is fully clean. When you look in the mirror your skin should look matte.
2. Exfoliate
You should try to exfoliate at least once a week. There are many gentle yet effective scrubs that formulated with charcoal. Exfoliating helps slough your surface skin of dead cells and reveal a new fresh layer. Exfoliated skin is prepped for your other products and helps them work better on your skin.
3. Mask
After exfoliating your skin is in perfect condition for a refreshing charcoal mask. Apply the mask to moist skin and let it dry slightly. Don’t wait until the mask starts to crumble as this means its absorbing precious moisture from your skin. Rinse off fully with lukewarm water — your skin should feel soft and hydrated.
4. Moisturize
You should always conclude your skin care ritual with moisturizer as it keeps your skin hydrated and balanced. Use a moisturizer that suits your skin’s needs and helps its barrier function. Apply the size of a dime to your face and work it in until fully absorbed in an upward and outward motion. If you are applying moisturizer in the morning use a product with SPF 15 or higher in it to protect your skin from sun damage.
So there you have it, charcoal can do way more than cook burgers on the grill. Try to incorporate t it into your skin care routine to have glowing skin!
