I recently walked past my mother brushing her teeth. As I walked by, I realized that I needed to do a double-take. Usually, when you see someone brushing their teeth you see white or blue toothpaste foaming, but that wasn't what I saw. I noticed her toothpaste was black! Too much licorice stuck in her teeth? What's going on? She looked back and said it was charcoal toothpaste. I then was introduced to the charcoal beauty craze.
That same evening my sister says she's about to put her face mask on. Again, completely thrown off at this charcoal face mask. After her mask dried, all I could think about was how painful it must be to take off. She reassured me it was safe, so I tried it. Since then, I've hopped on the charcoal beauty product bandwagon.
How Does Activated Charcoal Work?
The biggest takeaway is adsorption, which means chemicals attach to charcoal. Many cleaners and products absorb dirt and oils, but charcoal beauty products simply collect the debris.
Of course, it's up to you to choose whether or not you think it's safe for your body. I understand our skin is one entire organ that absorbs that's about anything, but remember, charcoal adsorbs, not absorbs.
Again, I recommend doing more research on the long term effects and to use charcoal beauty products seldom. I'll continue with my monthly face masks. If you have any interest in charcoal activated beauty products, check out some of my favorites along with a few top-reviewed items.
Best Charcoal Skincare Products
BLAQ Activated Charcoal Peel Off Face Mask
My experience with this exfoliating mask has been fantastic. I get a few minor breakouts around my nose after trying out new foundations. I can also count on this peel-off mask as an exfoliation method. Does it hurt to take off? Only if you use too much!
Burt's Bees Detoxifying Charcoal Sheet Face Mask - 1ct - 0.33oz
Good ol' Burt's Bees. My favorite lip balm brand also carries a charcoal face mask. It's a one-time use sheet mask and is perfect for all skin types. I recommend using one when your face has excess oil. If you do have oily skin, you should look into a toner.
Natural Body Wash with Activated Coconut Charcoal
If your body has a few blemishes, it may be a good idea to look for a detoxing body wash. The activated charcoal is purifying! It targets dirt and dead skin for a clean and soft body. It is safe for dry skin and sensitive skin, but if you're skeptical, feel free to test it on your skin. (Try it on your elbow).
Activated Charcoal Soap Bar - Natural Detox Face Soap & Body Soap
I know many people have moved on from bar soap to liquid body wash, but anytime I've talked to skincare experts, they have always recommended bars of soap. I'm not sure why, but it has inspired me to give this bar a chance.
It targets blackheads, psoriasis, eczema, and more.
Best Charcoal Toothpaste + Toothbrush Products
Cali White ACTIVATED CHARCOAL & ORGANIC COCONUT OIL TEETH WHITENING TOOTHPASTE
In a world where veneers exist and we're constantly taking pictures for social media, we may feel insecure about our teeth. There truly isn't a better time than now for these products to be trending. If you want whiter teeth, give this toothpaste a try.
My family loves theirs!
Oral-b Charcoal Whitening Therapy Toothbrush/strong
Yep, there are even bristle infused charcoal products. This is a great idea for targeting your cheeks and tongues.
Activated Charcoal Teeth Whitening Powder
You can also opt for a charcoal powder to whiten your teeth. I like that it's infused with coconut oil. I've used coconut oil as a mouthwash before and I noticed whiter teeth.
Biodegradable Eco-Friendly Natural Bamboo Charcoal Toothbrush - Pack Of 4
If you've made the switch to eco-friendly toothbrushes, I've found the perfect charcoal toothbrush for you. Customers say the bristles are soft, but I have to say I think that's a great thing! You don't want hard bristles ruining your gum line.
Healthy gums and white teeth are the goals.
Will you be trying an activated charcoal product? I'm interested in trying a charcoal toothbrush and finding some reliable charcoal house cleaning products.
