Activated Charcoal is a marvelous additive in cosmetics and personal care products. It may seem a bit unusual when it comes to luxurious health and beauty aids, but it is truly remarkable in its ability to cleanse environmental impurities.
Made from charred wood that has been processed into tiny particles to make it extremely porous, charcoal is activated using either physical activation, generally taking the form of exposing the charcoal to carbon dioxide or steam, or chemical activation, which requires exposure of the charcoal to an acid, a strong base, or a salt. The activation process causes the microscopic pores in the carbon dust to open, thus expanding the surface area of the carbon particles. The increased surface area enables the charcoal to act as a powerful, absorbing agent, with the ability to draw a wide spectrum of environmental toxins, including chlorine, away from hair and skin. Whether applied in a cleanser or masque, Activated Charcoal acts as a powerful magnet or sponge, drawing environmental toxins away from skin and hair.
For those who struggle with chaotic, less than perfect skin, Activated Charcoal can be a powerful ingredient. Clarifying Facial Cleanser and Vital Skin Face and Body Cleanser are products offered by Essential to help! These cleansers are clean thoroughly but are also extremely gentle. The Clarifying Facial Cleanser contains both a crème-based cleanser, oils, fats and gentle, sulfate free, coconut derived, natural surfactants. Aloe, Tamanu Oil, and Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil nourish while Jojoba Oil mimics your skin’s natural sebum. Organic Green Tea, Organic White Tea, and Organic Rooibos Tea provide rich, protecting antioxidants and Willow Bark works to soothe skin. Vitamins E, B5, and C refresh your skin allowing a healthy glow to shine through. Clarifying Facial Cleanser is an incredibly absorbent, refreshing one-step cleanser packed with extracts, vitamins and oils that moisturize so as not to disturb your skin’s natural lipid barrier, while the charcoal binds to dirt and oil and environmental toxins so you can rinse them away. Vital Skin Face and Body Cleanser adds the astringent properties of organic Lavender Distillate as well as gentle, soothing Chamomile Distillate.
Since including these cleansers in my bathing routine my skin has never been clearer or healthier. Still, sometimes poor diet choices cause flare ups and something more robust is required. Charcoal Clarifying Powder Facial Masque and Charcoal Creme Masque are the pinnacle of deep cleaning power. Charcoal Clarifying Powder facial Masque comes packed with nutrient-rich properties that are designed to be enhanced by your choice of liquid used to activate the masque. The masque can be used 2 parts powder to 1 part any liquid suitable for hydrating the masque. One can use yogurt, soy milk, goat milk, rice milk, any hydrosol or distillate water, most fruit or vegetable juices, vinegar, water with sea salt, or any other liquid that is beneficial to the skin. I recommend a plain yogurt.
We also have three fabulous conditioners employing activated charcoal: Purifying Conditioner, Pink Grapefruit Conditioner, and Breathe Green Conditioner.
You can also purchase Activated Charcoal as an ingredient from Essential to use in your creations! What products do you make with Activated Charcoal?