How to Use Activated Charcoal in Your Beauty Routine
Naturally purifying, activated charcoal has a variety of uses, from teeth whitening to skincare.
Whether it's through infused drinks or pore strips, it seems like activated charcoal is everywhere in the wellness world. The chameleon substance not only looks cool, but has plenty of health benefits, too. You've probably heard that it can be used to detox, but what does that really mean?
Charcoal has been around for years in the medical field, used to treat drug overdoses and poisoning by preventing the body's absorption of toxins. Made when regular charcoal is exposed to high heat, activated charcoal is highly absorbent and effective at removing toxins. In recent years, its detoxifying properties have translated to the beauty industry, soaking up oil in skincare, pulling stains from teeth, and even reducing dandruff. Given it's natural origins, activated charcoal is also a great option for those prone to allergies.
Whether you want to make a simple switch to charcoal shampoo or make the powder a part of your dental hygiene routine, using activated charcoal is a natural addition to your medicine cabinet. Read on to learn the many different ways this versatile substance can be implemented into your beauty regimen.
Exfoliate Your Skin
Unlike other harsh scrubs, activated charcoal's fine texture gently exfoliates skin without causing microtears. Make a DIY body scrub by adding a teaspoon of activated charcoal powder to a cup of granulated sugar and a quarter cup of oil of your choice (we love jojoba oil and olive oil). Mix well and apply your homemade scrub to your legs, arms, and more for smooth, glowing skin.
Fix Oily Hair
Activated charcoal works like a sponge, soaking up oil and impurities from hair. It's no wonder that plenty of haircare lines have started adding the substance to shampoos and conditioners. To prolong your washes and keep grease at bay, lather up your hair with activated charcoal from brands such as SheaMoisture and Drybar.
Whiten Your Teeth
Instead of expensive whitening strips and in-office treatments, add activated charcoal to your dental care regimen. The substance can be used to absorb surface stains on teeth to reveal pearly whites. You can either buy toothpaste with charcoal already added, or mix a pinch of activated charcoal powder into your favorite toothpaste before brushing. Make sure not to use activated charcoal every day, however, as overuse can cause damage to the enamel.
Clear Up Dandruff
Since dandruff is often caused by irritated, oily skin, activated charcoal can pull out oil and residue for a clearer scalp. Clear up those pesky flakes and soothe itching by using a shampoo with activated charcoal.
Treat Acne
Activated charcoal's oil-removing benefits don't stop at haircare—the chalky black powder can also clear up acne-producing oil from skin. Whether you prefer a charcoal face wash for a squeaky-clean feeling or more intense purifying face masks, give activated charcoal a shot at banishing your blemish woes.
Reduce Body Odor
If you've been thinking about making the switch to natural deodorant, consider trying out one with activated charcoal. Because the smelliness of body odor is caused by bacteria, activated charcoal's absorbent properties soak up bacteria for long-lasting odor reduction. Aluminum-free and naturally scented with minimal residue, Schmidt's charcoal deodorant is a great option.
