There's a new super ingredient on the skincare block, and it comes in the form of a charcoal face mask.
This anti-pollution, dirt magnet, pore refining and super cleansing ingredient is set to become one of the most talked about and trendy products of the year.
Charcoal for the skin: Why is it good?
Charcoal is one of nature's most active and powerful ingredients. It has been used both as an internal and topical treatment for centuries to cure a host of ailments. This includes stomach upsets, where the charcoal binds to the toxins in the stomach before they reach the bloodstream.
In skincare, the principal works in a very similar way. Charcoal acts as a magnet, binding to the impurities, oil and dirt in your skin's cells and drawing them out.
As an all-natural ingredient, charcoal is brilliant to use even if you have sensitive skin. It won't add extra chemicals into your cells, meaning you're less likely to have a reaction. It's super detoxing effects are brilliant for clearing out blocked pores and restoring congested complexions.
What is Activated Charcoal Powder?
Activated Charcoal Powder is charcoal that has had oxygen added to it. This helps to remove any toxins and gases remaining within the charcoal itself.
Due to its increased porosity and larger surface area, activated charcoal attracts a larger amount of impurities and dirt to it than regular charcoal. This makes it perfect to use in your skincare routine. This is especially true when it comes to talking about the effects that pollution has on the skin, and anti-pollution skincare.
Dermalogica's Daily Superfoliant is an example of a charcoal face mask that has been supercharged to deliver unrivalled benefits to the skin. It contains a base of Activated Binchotan Charcoal and Alpha-Hydroxy Acids, or AHA's to literally pull impurities, dirt and oil out of the skin to remove the damaging effects of pollution from your cells.
What is a Charcoal Face Mask?
A charcoal face mask is ideal for those who are suffering from blemishes, dullness and congested skin. They come in many forms, from sheet masks and creams, to powders and foams, so choose one depending on your personal texture preferences.
They are a great treatment to introduce into your skincare routine once or twice a week. By clearing out the toxins from your skin, and wrapping a protective layer over it for when you step outside, your skin will begin to become much healthier and clearer.
Think of a charcoal face mask as your supercharged beauty booster.
Top 5 Charcoal Face Masks
From expert and clinical brands such as Dermalogica and Clinique, to up and coming Korean beauty brands such as Skin79, the rise of the charcoal face mask is becoming increasingly popular.
We have selected our 5 favourites that we love to keep on hand for immediate complexion perfection.
After treating your skin with a charcoal face mask, keep it protected from pollution with the Elizabeth Arden Prevage City Smart to ensure it stays as healthy and clear as possible.
