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The most celebrated skincare ingredient to emerge in the last few years is the same one that might have previously made you squirm: activated charcoal. The benefits of the best charcoal face cleansers are numerous: charcoal can draw out bacteria, impurities, chemicals, and micro-particles. It can fight acne, prevent blackheads and whiteheads from forming by sopping up excess sebum.
So, now that we've reviewed just how amazing activated charcoal is, here's a brief breakdown on where you can find it: um, pretty much everywhere you look. There are charcoal face masks, you can brush your teeth with charcoal for a naturally brighter and whiter smile, charcoal cleansing soaps, and even a charcoal juice that some people believe is good for your skin.
With so many activated charcoal skin care products exploding on the market, one thing is clear: this is no passing fad. Charcoal, in all of its goopy glory, is only going to grow in popularity. Mark my words, it won't be long before grandma is reminding you to wash your face with charcoal before you turn in for the night. So, let's get a handle on the best activated charcoal cleansers on the market — from sticks and powder cleansers to foaming cleansers and scrubs.
1
A Gel Charcoal Cleanser Straight From The Sea
derma e Purifying Gel Cleanser With Marine Algae and Activated Charcoal, $13, Amazon
Whereas cream cleansers can add much-needed moisture to dry skin, gel cleansers like this top-rated derma e activated charcoal and marine algae product are perfect for oily skin because they reduce surface oils and combat breakouts. This magnesium and potassium-rich cleanser protects skin against environmental pollutants, gives clogged pores a run for their money, and even reviewers with sensitive skin say it's one of the best cleansers they've ever tried.
2
A Charcoal Bar Soap For Oily, Acne-Prone Skin
Bamboo Charcoal Soap, $11, Amazon
This bamboo charcoal soap is exactly what you need if you suffer from body or facial acne. It's hypoallergenic and free of fragrances, and reviewers say it provides a mild way of getting rid of acne (even cystic acne) without stripping your skin of moisture.
3
A Konjac Sponge With Added Activated Charcoal Cleanser
Amaki Skincare Konjac Sponge With Activated Bamboo Charcoal Cleanser, $15, Amazon
On its own, the natural konjac sponge is a fantastic plant-based exfoliator and cleanser that can be used on all skin types. Add activated bamboo charcoal cleanser to a konjac sponge and you've got two powerful forces of nature uniting to help fight acne and make your skin feel soft and smooth.
4
Charcoal Facial Wipes For Easy Makeup Removal
Yes to Tomatoes Detoxifying Charcoal Facial Wipes, $12, Amazon
Who knew one little black charcoal facial wipe could effectively and thoroughly remove dirt, oil, and every last stitch of makeup? Reviewers say it's the ideal product for post-gym cleansing and that it works especially well on oily skin.
5
A Blissful Charcoal And Dead Sea Salt Scrub For The Face And Body
Buena Skin Activated Charcoal Scrub, $13, Amazon
Draw out impurities and pamper both your body and face with this activated charcoal scrub, which helps minimize pores and fade acne scars. Its nourishing ingredients include a blend of dead sea salt, jojoba oil, and organic aloe vera.
6
A Charcoal And Coconut Oil Facial Cleanser
Barbary Daily Natural Charcoal Facial Cleanser, $16, Amazon
Want your charcoal cleanser to come with a healthy heaping of essential oils and vitamins? This clarifying and skin detoxing charcoal cleanser has organic coconut oil, green tea, vitamins C and B5, orange peel, and other nourishing ingredients — and it can even help alleviate redness and irritation.
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