Activated Charcoal

1. Definition Activated Charcoal:

Activated charcoal is a form of carbon that has been processed to have small, low-volume pores that increase the surface area available for adsorption or chemical reactions. It is commonly used in cosmetics for its ability to draw out impurities, toxins, and excess oils from the skin.

2. Use:

Activated charcoal is a popular ingredient in skincare products such as masks, cleansers, and scrubs due to its detoxifying properties. It helps to deep clean pores, absorb excess oil, and exfoliate the skin, leaving it looking clearer and more radiant. Activated charcoal can also be found in toothpaste and hair products for similar purposes.

3. Usage Activated Charcoal:

When using skincare products containing activated charcoal, it is important to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Generally, activated charcoal products are applied to clean, dry skin and left on for a specified amount of time before being rinsed off. It is recommended to use these products 1-2 times per week to avoid over-drying the skin. As with any new skincare ingredient, it is advisable to perform a patch test before using activated charcoal products to check for any potential skin irritation or allergic reactions.

4. References:

- Y. C. Sharma, V. K. Srivastava, and R. C. Singh, "Activated Charcoal: Preparation, characterization and applications: A review article," Journal of Chemical Technology & Biotechnology, vol. 52, no. 2, pp. 91-106, 2009.

- A. Gupta and A. K. Sharma, "Activated Charcoal: Preparation, characterization and applications in cosmetic formulations," International Journal of Cosmetic Science, vol. 40, no. 4, pp. 313-324, 2018.

- M. R. Mozafari, S. Reed, and M. Roohani, "Activated Charcoal in Cosmetics: A comprehensive review of its benefits and precautions," Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, vol. 17, no. 3, pp. 387-394, 2018.