Preparation
Beauty trends involving various botanical-infused products come and go, but charcoal-based skin has been a mainstay on the market for years—and for good reason. “Charcoal, which is the dehydrated carbon remnants of burned organic substances such as wood, contains numerous pores,” explains Dr. Audrey Kunin, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of DERMAdoctor. “These pores are able to absorb toxins, removing them from the skin.”
Briogeo “Scalp Revival” Charcoal + Tea Tree Scalp Treatment SerumGlamGlow “SUPERMUD” Charcoal Instant Treatment MaskBioré Deep Pore Charcoal CleanserAPOTHEKE Charcoal Plant-Based LotionBoscia “Charcoal Pore Pudding” Intensive Wash-Off Treatment
Dr. Robin Schaffran, chief dermatologist and co-founder of BalmLabs, describes its effects as a “micro sponge.” Thanks to its many little pores, Dr. Schaffran says, “it will trap the oil and sebum on the surface of your skin, so when you wash the charcoal away, it will take all of that oil and debris along with it.” Oily, acne-prone complexions can especially be improved by charcoal products, says Dr. Schaffran. Since dirt and residue is thought to stick to the activated charcoal, it then pulls impurities from your skin and unclogs pores once the product is washed away. However, if you have dry or sensitive dermis, Dr. Kunin warns that these products may not be for you, since they can be drying. If you do want to give them a try, you’ve come to the right place: From face masks and body scrubs to shampoos and scalp serums, we’ve rounded up several of our favorite charcoal beauty products, ahead.
