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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.
Pigmentation is simply skin’s coloration, determined by the amount of melanin produced by the skin cells. This umbrella term can include a wide variety of skin pigmentation disorders that can affect small or large areas of the skin. It includes genetic conditions, as well as environmental ones, such as sunspots or liver spots. Hyperpigmentation, for example, refers to a darkening of the skin, such as with age spots and sunspots.
To prevent discoloration from damaging UV, it’s best to moisturize daily and wear sunscreen. Additionally, antioxidants protect the skin from free radicals that damage cells and speed up aging. Ingredients and nutrients like acai oil, alpha-lipoic acid, jojoba oil, green tea extract, retinol/vitamin A, coenzyme Q10, caffeine, alpha-hydroxy acid and salicylic acid are all beneficial for preventing and reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation. Vitamin C is also a good brightening agent for hyperpigmentation. Hydrolyzed collagen also enhances the appearance of dull or damaged skin by reducing flaking and restoring the overall vitality of the skin.
activated charcoal may be effective for pigmentation, 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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