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Also known as activated carbon, the term refers to charcoal that’s been treated by heating or other processes to have small pores that increase its adsorption abilities – that is, the ability to hold molecules of a gas, liquid or solute as a thin film. In simple words, it’s charcoal that can adhere to drugs and toxins to itself.
Activated charcoal is excellent if you want to give your skin a deep cleanse. Applied as a mask, it unclogs pores and removes dirt, dead skin cells, and excess oil. It also has antibacterial properties. It unclogs and tightens pores, reduces inflammation, and makes your skin smoother.
If you use it too often topically, you risk drying out your skin. Limit your use of activated charcoal to once a week. Oral supplements can cause constipation, dehydration, and slowing of the intestinal tract. Avoid using activated charcoal supplements if you have reduced peristalsis.
Dry skin, also called xerosis, is when the outer most layer of skin, or epidermis, isn’t retaining sufficient moisture. The epidermis is partially made up of epidermal proteins and fats, or lipids, which help to retain moisture. If the proper amount of these proteins or lipids are lacking, moisture will evaporate more quickly and dry skin will ensue.
Also, external and environmental factors, such as weather, cold air, hot and excessive showers and harsh soaps, are notorious for either causing or exacerbating dry skin.
Rosehip oil enhances the appearance of dry or damaged skin by reducing flaking and restoring the overall vitality of the skin. Jojoba oil is also good for keeping in moisture for healthier skin. Hyaluronic acid is another great ingredient for retaining moisture in dry skin.
Acne-prone dry skin is the hardest to treat because anti-acne ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, retinoid, etc tend to be drying. Instead of avoiding these effective ingredients, you can combine these ingredients with moisturizing ingredients to counter effect the dryness of these ingredients.
activated charcoal may be effective for dry skin, but there are many other factors that may affect whether this ingredient would work on your skin or if there are better ingredients that may work for you. Take this skin quiz to find the best ingredients for your skin and build your skincare routine.
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