Free radicals, oxidative stress, and anti-pollution care are the new key-terms in the world of cosmetics and cosmetology. Environmental changes and the civilizational drive have made detoxification of the skin a basic element of its daily care. In this field, active carbon has been constantly reigning for many years. It’s worth learning a bit about its amazing properties …

Skin detoxification – why is it so important?

Our entire body is constantly working on defending itself against destructive toxins. The skin is the last “medium” responsible for getting rid of the disastrous particles. Unfortunately, this is not an easy task because we are constantly (and unconsciously) helping toxins to wreck the cells. It makes them start to work against us, their division slows down, the water molecules are not kept inside, the intercellular cement in the skin weakens and the collagen level decreases because the “toxic” molecules do not leave enough space for the valuable ones.

We must provide help, in order to prevent disturbing the proper skin functioning. Not just by proper diet but also by using effective cosmetics. In the field of detoxification, products with activated charcoal seem to be the go-to products. What are they and how do they work on the skin?

Activated charcoal – what exactly is it?

Activated charcoal (also known as activated carbon) is produced in the process of firing wood, peat or coconut shells in specially created conditions (i.e. in a low oxygen content). In this process, all impurities are being burned until pure carbon is left. Active carbon is formed from wood: it is heated up to high temperatures again. CO2 oxidizing gases, water vapor or air are involved in this process. This causes erosion of charcoal fragments and increases micropores, and thus – strengthens the absorption area of charcoal.

How does activated charcoal affect the skin?

Activated carbon comes into direct contact with toxins and any impurities in the skin and traps them. Thanks to the obtained micropores – it keeps them there until they are completely removed from the body.

Its popularity was certainly determined by low price and general availability. Another advantage in favor of active carbon is that it can be used in cosmetics in an unlimited way.

Cosmetics with the participation of activated carbon are almost a separate department in the drugstore. We can choose from carbon-based scrubs for the face, body and (even) the scalp, cleansing gels and micellar water that thoroughly removes makeup, toxins, and sebum. But that’s not all. There are also masks, creams, toners, condensed liquid in the form of serum or capsules, black pearls for combination or oily skin, special baths, wraps, and masks for the hair, body, and face, and even carbon-based toothpastes, which not only strengthen teeth’s whiteness, but perfectly disinfect the oral cavity.

Activated charcoal in cosmetics – effects 

What does the skin look like and what are the benefits of using activated charcoal?

• The skin becomes thoroughly cleansed.
• The toxins from the interior are removed.
• The visibility of the skin pores is reduced.
• The number of toxins in the skin tissues is decreased.
• The skin’s protective barrier is strengthened.
• The skin is protected against air pollutions.
• Activated carbon lightens the skin.
• Redness and uneven pigmentation are reduced.
• Skin discoloration disappears.
• Activated carbon helps to get rid of blackheads and blemishes.
• The skin ages more slowly.

Medicinal carbon is a substance that perfectly combines with other antioxidant and rejuvenating ingredients. It is excellent in combination with marine algae, coenzyme Q10, hyaluronic acid and all kinds of vitamins and plant extracts.

In the era of significant environmental pollution and omnipresent smog in the air, the anti-pollution care, that is, thorough cleansing, strengthening and protecting the skin against toxins is one of the most important cosmetic trends. It results from sad necessity, but unfortunately, it is unavoidable. It is worth remembering about detoxifying the skin regularly and to trying out the mighty powers of activated carbon.