Let’s face it – activated charcoal in skin care is anything but new. Everyday there is a new brand with a new product that has this product and sometimes it can be hard to figure out which one will work for you. If you don’t already know about activated charcoal and its skincare benefits, here’s what it can do for you in a nutshell:
- Unclog Pores
- Balances Oily Skin
- Gently Exfoliates
Activated charcoal essentially combats major skin concerns leaving you with healthier, balanced skin. There are three ways that you can incorporate this ingredient into your skin care routine that I have found to be really helpful in achieving clearer, more youthful skin.
Cleanse
Origins just released a new addition to their Clear Improvement™ line, Active Charcoal Exfoliating Cleansing Powder to Clear Pores. This product is a cleanser and an exfoliator to penetrate deep within pores aiding in clearing blackheads and detoxifying skin. What is great about this product is that you can control the amount of exfoliation depending on how much water you add.
Exfoliate
boscia has always been on point when it comes to gentle products that actually work. Their Charcoal Deep-Pore Exfoliating Peel Gel with volcanic sand is just that. This gentle peel uses charcoal to cleanse pores and remove dirt oil and dead skin cells to reveal smoother and more radiant skin
Mask
You need a mask. Everyone needs a mask. At first I thought I was going to feature Origins Clear Improvement™ Active Charcoal Mask to Clean Pores (and it is in my Top 5) but I found that the L’Oreal Pure Clay mask is equally up to the task. The Detox and Brighten mask is a gentle mask. Like most clay masks, this will detox and brighten the skin. It balances oily skin without the risk of over-drying. Your skin loses the excess oil and keep the moisture that is needed for healthy, glowing skin. This makes it a mask that you can safely use several times a week. In addition to that, it only takes ten minutes so feel free to use it in the morning.
With this harsh weather (especially here in the NYC metro area) detoxifying and exfoliation is key in addition to retaining moisture for healthier skin. Below are some other activated charcoal skin care products that you can incorporate in your skincare routine. If you have used any of the featured products or any other products mentioned or not feel free to comment below.
NYC – Go out there and enjoy your snow day and always remember to SEE. TOUCH. TASTE.