Since not too long ago, activated charcoal has grown in popularity as an ingredient in cosmetics and organic skincare products in Pakistan. There are a variety of products that contain it, including facial cleansers, shampoos, and even bar soaps.

A popular ingredient in face masks, activated charcoal is thought to have the ability to extract bacteria and pollutants from the skin.

Here's how activated charcoal can help your skin, whether you're trying to improve your complexion or combat acne. You'll also learn about some other practical uses for this product

Know what activated charcoal exactly is:

Common charcoal is turned into activated charcoal by heating it to a high temperature. Activated charcoal also goes by the name of activated carbon. Charcoal becomes very absorbent and capable of storing chemicals and toxins as a result of this exposure although activated charcoal is not the same as the charcoal used in an outdoor grill, despite the fact that they are both types of charcoal.

What a charcoal mask can do for you:

Because of the lack of scientific research on the topic of activated charcoal's skin benefits, many of the claimed advantages of using a charcoal mask are based on hearsay.

Using a charcoal mask may have the following effects:

Purifies your skin by removing any toxins

Toxins and germs in the body can be removed with activated charcoal.

A charcoal face mask, according to a reliable source, may help remove dirt and impurities from the skin.

Using a charcoal face mask, according to observational information, can lead to a healthier, brighter complexion by eliminating trapped dirt and bacteria from the skin.

Reduces blemishes

Dead skin cells, oil, and germs get caught in your pores and cause acne to form. Pimples and other inflammatory lesions can be triggered by acne-causing bacteria, leading to irritation, redness, and swelling.

Activated charcoal, on the other hand, has antibacterial qualities that may aid in removing bacteria from the pores. Acne may be reduced, and your skin's overall complexion may improve as a result of using this product.

Takes care of stings and bites from insects

Itchy and swollen skin might be the result of insect bites and stings. Toxins in insect venom are neutralized by activated charcoal, which some people claim helps relieve the pain from a bite.

Is using a charcoal mask safe?

Only a small amount of study has been done on the potential dangers of using a charcoal face mask. However, there are various benefits of this amazing ingredient. But overuse of these masks may cause skin dryness, redness, and irritation, although they appear to be safe in the majority of cases.

Make sure the charcoal mask works by testing a small piece of skin on the inside of your elbow before you use it on a larger area. After a few hours, if you don't notice any itching or redness, it's probably safe to apply to your skin.

The best way to use a charcoal mask:

Before using the mask, make sure your skin is clean. Cleansing your face before applying the mask aids penetration of the mask into your pores.
Utilize a thin, even layer of the mask to cover the entire surface area of your face. Using your hands or a fine bristles brush, gently massage the mask into your skin. A word of caution: don't get any in your eyes.
For just a 15-minute dry time, apply the mask to your face and wash it off with warm water.
Then use a facial moisturizer to lock in the moisture that might have been dried up after using the charcoal mask.

How often should you be applying a charcoal mask?

It's recommended to use a charcoal mask once or twice a week, just like you would with any other type of face mask. Only use a charcoal mask once a week or every couple of weeks if you have sensitive skin or discover that it dries out your skin.

In order to get the most benefit from the mask, use it at night while you're already doing your bedtime skincare routine.

The mask can be applied first thing in the morning before getting into the shower and then rinsed off in the bath or shower afterward.

When shopping for a charcoal mask, what should you look for?

Your local drugstore or beauty supply store likely carries prepared charcoal masks like Pinksoul's charcoal clay mask. But just in case you can’t get your hands on organic skincare products in Pakistan, you may also manufacture your own at home.

When purchasing a store-made charcoal mask, look for one that contains components that are appropriate for your skin tone and texture.

You should seek a charcoal mask that has clay in it if you have oily skin. This chemical may aid in the absorption of extra oil from the skin. Acne breakouts can be prevented if you use this product to clean out your pores.

A charcoal mask containing moisturizing substances like hyaluronic acid, olive oil, or jojoba oil is the best for people with dry skin.

Charcoal masks come in a wide range of sorts and brands, so check the labels carefully before you buy them.

You should avoid masks with scents, dyes, parabens, and other potentially irritating ingredients if you have sensitive skin.

To sum it up:

Activated charcoal has risen to prominence as a beauty element in recent years. Many people have experienced brighter skin and a healthier complexion after using a charcoal mask, despite the fact that research into its skincare advantages is limited.

A good charcoal mask should be tailored to your skin type, contain only natural ingredients, and not contain any harsh chemicals, dyes, or parabens. You can either buy a mask or use natural ingredients to make your own.

Before applying a charcoal mask, see your doctor or dermatologist if you have particularly sensitive skin or special concerns regarding the safety of activated charcoal and you’re good to go!