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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.
Sunspots are rather common. They are also called liver spots or solar lentigines. Anyone can have sunspots; however, those who are more fair-skinned, or older than 40-years-old are more susceptible to sunspots. Sunspots tend to be pretty harmless, and it is more of a personal preference if you choose to treat them. The most predictable areas for sunspots to appear are on the back of the hands, the face, your shoulders, and forearms. They are easy to identify, as they are flat brown spots that develop to sun exposure. Real sunspots are harmless and are noncancerous. However, if you see change in your spots or new ones appearing, it is always recommended to have your dermatologist examine your skin for good health.
Vitamin E, vitamin C, and ferulic acid work well to not only lighten the sunspots but to help maintain the elasticity of your skin. Vitamin E protects the skin against the damaging affects of the sun, which can make more sunspots or make the ones you already have appear darker. Combining vitamin E and vitamin C can also help lighten existing sunspots.
activated charcoal may be effective for sun spots, 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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