Did Santa bring you a lump of coal this year? If it happened to be activated charcoal, then maybe ol’ Saint Nick did you a favor, given how charcoal—a long-used medical tool—has been making waves in the beauty industry.
Physicians use activated charcoal in emergency rooms to treat alcohol and drug overdoses because it attaches to the toxins in the stomach and prevents them from entering the bloodstream. In theory, charcoal works the same way as an ingredient in a personal care product, whether it’s in facewash, shampoo, or toothpaste (all three which have popped up on the retail scene lately). It attracts dirt, bacteria, and oil, all of which get washed away when you rinse with water.
It’s only a theory because there’s not really any scientific research that backs up activated charcoal’s use as a personal care product. However, it’s certainly worth giving it a try—with a few parameters:
Skincare products: Using activated charcoal alone on your skin may or may not be worth the effort, though you can mix up your own homemade facewash with powdered activated charcoal. Instead, look for products that contain known acne-fighting ingredients such as salicylic acid or tea tree oil, along with charcoal.
Shampoo and haircare products: Charcoal-infused shampoo can remove build-up and excess oil, but it’s not something you want to use every day. If you feel like your locks are a bit lifeless or heavy, incorporate activated charcoal shampoo once every week or two to strip away the build-up that’s weighing down the strands.
Toothpaste and oral care products: When it comes to teeth, charcoal is a bit of a mixed bag. It will whiten and remove plaque, but it can also erode tooth enamel. This initially causes sensitivity and, over time, can lead to permanent damage. If you choose to use charcoal-based toothpaste, brush gently in a circular motion and rinse thoroughly when done. Like shampoo, charcoal toothpaste shouldn’t be used every day. Stick to two to three times a week.
