Charcoal is no longer just for BBQs or for Santa to hand out to his naughty list. It may shock you to learn that it can now be found in everything from soap to toothpaste, and you can even ingest it (but do so under the advisement of a trusted medical practitioner).
“Charcoal, because of its adsorbent qualities, binds bacteria and small particles, like dirt, to itself making them easier to remove,” explains Claudia Christie, Co-Founder of Claudiana Beautanica. “It’s cleansing and purifying actions make it particularly beneficial for oily skin, and for treating skin inflammation caused by oxidative stress. We are currently experimenting with it for a future body care formula,” she shared.
We traveled to the dark side to find the best charcoal-infused products you should be using.
Physicians Formula Charcoal Detox Cleansing Stick
Cleanse and exfoliate with this multitasking stick formula that you can stash in your gym bag. It removes makeup and dirt or use it as a spot treatment. It will leave skin brighter and works to reduce pores size and remove dead skin cells thanks to Bamboo Charcoal. $9.95, Amazon.com.
UpCircle Chocolate Charcoal Chai Soap Bar
Not only are we fans of the sustainability of this soap – it was made with residual chai spices used to create chai tea syrup - but also love that the charcoal works to draw out toxins, tighten pores, while cacao extract boots circulation and brightens skin. $9 Ulta.com
PiperWai Natural Deodorant Stick
Infused with activated charcoal, coconut oil and a blend of 11 essential oils, this powerhouse will absorb your sweat (and odor), making it the perfect gym companion. $16.99, PiperWai.com.
Hello Activated Charcoal Epic Whitening Fluoride Free Toothpaste
It may seem like an oxymoron to use black toothpaste to whiten your teeth, but in this case, it’s not. The activated charcoal, made from sustainable bamboo, helps remove plaque and surface stains and leaves your teeth feeling as cleans as if you just left the dentist. Plus, your mouth will be minty fresh. Warning! The foam from brushing, if it gets on your clothes, will temporarily stain them so be careful or brush in the buff. $5.99, https://www.hello-products.com
For the fellas who take flex their skincare muscle, Beast’s mask works to draw out impurities, absorb oil thanks to a combination of Kaolin Clay, Bakuchiol and Activated Charcoal. $29, GetBeast.com
