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naturally sourced, tea infused, petty cosmetics brand by m.c. shakie
naturally sourced, tea infused, petty cosmetics brand by m.c. shakie
Medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN on August 7, 2019 —
Written by Valencia Higuera for healthline.com
Activated charcoal has become a popular ingredient in the beauty world lately. You’ll find it in products ranging from facial cleansers and shampoos to soaps and scrubs.
Because it’s believed that it can draw bacteria and impurities from the skin, activated charcoal has also become a popular ingredient in face masks, too.
Whether you’re looking to improve your complexion or fight acne, here’s a look at how activated charcoal may benefit your skin, as well as other practical uses for this product.
What’s activated charcoal?
Activated charcoal, also called activated carbon, is a fine black powder that’s produced when common charcoal is exposed to high heat. This exposure creates tiny internal spaces or holes in the charcoal, making it highly absorbent and able to trap chemicals and toxins.
Although it’s a type of charcoal, activated charcoal is different from the charcoal used on an outdoor grill.
The benefits of a charcoal mask
Because there’s limited scientific research on the skin benefits of activated charcoal, many of the potential benefits of a charcoal mask are based on anecdotal evidence.
A charcoal mask may:
Are there any risks with using a charcoal mask?
There’s currently very limited research on the risk of using a charcoal face mask. Generally, these masks appear to be safe, although overuse could cause skin dryness, redness, and sensitivity.
Before using a charcoal mask for the first time, it’s a good idea to test the product on a small patch of skin on the inside of your elbow. If you don’t experience any itching or redness within a few hours, then it’s probably safe to use on your skin.
How to apply a charcoal mask?
Cleanse your skin before applying the mask. A clean face helps the mask penetrate your pores.
Apply the mask evenly over your face, including your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Gently massage the mask into your skin using your fingertips or a soft-bristled brush. Be careful not to get it into your eyes.
Let the mask dry on your skin for 15 minutes, then rinse off with warm water.
Gently dry your face, then apply a facial moisturizer.
How often should you apply a charcoal mask?
As with other facial masks, it’s best to apply a charcoal mask once or twice a week. If you have sensitive skin, or find that your skin feels dry after using a charcoal mask, only apply once a week or every couple of weeks.
Because the mask needs to sit on your skin for about 15 minutes, it might be more convenient to include it in your nighttime skin care routine.
If you apply the mask in the morning, you can do so before getting in the shower, and then wash the mask off afterward.
What to look for in a charcoal mask?
You can make your own charcoal mask at home or purchase a premade mask at your local beauty or drugstore.
You can also shop for a charcoal mask online.
When shopping for a premade mask, choose one that has ingredients that suits your skin type.
If you have oily skin, look for a charcoal mask that contains clay. This ingredient may help absorb excess oil on your skin. It may also help clean out your pores and prevent acne breakouts.
If you have dry skin, choose a charcoal mask with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, olive oil, or jojoba oil.
Different varieties and brands of charcoal masks will have different ingredients, so be sure to read product labels carefully before purchasing.
If you have sensitive skin, avoid masks with fragrances, dyes, parabens, and other chemicals that may cause a reaction.
Other benefits of activated charcoal
Activated charcoal doesn’t only have the potential to benefit the skin. It can also be used as a natural treatment for other conditions.
This includes:
The bottom line
In recent years, activated charcoal has become a hugely popular ingredient in the beauty world. Despite limited research to back up its skin care benefits, many people have had positive outcomes with a charcoal mask, enjoying clearer skin and a healthier complexion.
For best results, try to find a charcoal mask that’s suited to your skin type, contains natural ingredients, and is free of harsh chemicals, dyes, parabens, and fragrances. Or, you can make your own mask with all-natural ingredients.
If you have very sensitive skin or specific questions about the safety of activated charcoal, talk to your doctor or dermatologist before using a charcoal mask.
The Sip Cosmetics Charcol Mask (Spelled Charcol on purpose) Is a unique blend of three earth class that are clinically proven to improve the look and feel of skin. It is great for most skin types and a great addition to your skin care regimen. It is like a facial at home.
Benefits include:
◇ Eliminates oils & dirt while visibly reducing pores
◇ Gently cleanses stressed, polluted skin
◇ Leaves face feeling refreshed & radiant
Our rose-scented, clarifying mask is a powerful combination of charcoal and three triple-action clays will leave your customers with smooth, naturally exfoliated, and enriched skin.
This indulgent formula acts as a magnet to capture deep-set impurities. While most masks tend to dry skin, we’ve combined the powerful technology of lecithin, which acts as a humectant to retain moisture and provide the nourishment skin needs.
The outcome of this deep cleaning mask will leave your customers feeling reinvigorated and rejuvenated with a healthy glow!