3. Exfoliates- This is where activated charcoal does wonders to improve skin texture. In addition to extracting oil and dirt, it removes dead skin from the skins surface explains Dr. Lolis. “You get the deep clean plus the surface clean when you use activated charcoal. It’s a one-two punch. If you’re not the type to get professional facials twice monthly, a face cleansing regimen with activated charcoal is a great at-home option to achieve that deeper clean.
About the Doctor.
Dr. Margarita Lolis, M.D. is a board-certified cosmetic, medical dermatologist and a fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon with over 20 years of experience. In her practice, she addresses common skin concerns such as acne prevention and treatment in both teens and adults, sun-damage, skin discoloration, wrinkles, changes to skin texture and loss of volume. On the medical side, she is a trusted expert in melanoma and over-all skin health. Dr. Lolis prides herself in honoring facial symmetry to deliver a natural look to her clients. She always recommends a healthy skin care regimen plus lifestyle habits that are aligned with her holistic approach to beauty. Dr. Lolis is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology, American College of Mohs Surgery, and the American Society of Anti-aging. Her practice, Skin, Laser, and Surgery Specialists is in New York City and Bergen Country, New Jersey.
Before adding charcoal to your beauty regimen, check out Dr. Lolis’ list of top skin benefits of activated charcoal.
1. Makes pores smaller- Summertime perspiration leads to pore expansion and enlargement. Activated charcoal helps pull out toxins and dirt from your pores to make them less visible. “The key here is you want to allow enough time for the charcoal to do its thing. Don’t scrub and be sure to rinse with lukewarm water, advises Dr. Lolis.”
2. Removes oil from skin- Activated charcoal has many properties that help balance and soak up the oil from your face. Dr. Lolis explains that due activated charcoal has a strong ability to vacuum up oil. “People with normal to dry skin should use charcoal it once or twice a week to avoid drying out your skin. People with oily skin can use a combination of an activated charcoal soap daily then a mask twice per week,” she says.
4. Calms breakouts and removes acne scars – Those deep painful cystic pimples often lead to scarring and blemishes. Activated charcoal works to lighten acne scarring by lifting off the darkened dead skin. Given it is also rich in anti-inflammatory properties acne prone skin is soothed and future breakouts prevented. “For those who can’t afford laser or light therapy, or simply want an at home solution for acne charcoal will help fade scars over time. The key is to stick with it,” says Dr. Lolis.
5. Anti-Aging- “Whenever you are exfoliating the skin and accomplishing a deeper clean, wrinkles decrease and a supple skin rejuvenation occurs,” says Dr. Lolis. Women in their 30’s and 40’s who struggle with adult acne find activated charcoal helps with breakouts and overall skin texture and radiance. Aging skin tends to be dryer so it’s important to use charcoal on the oilier areas of our skin as opposed to everywhere,” she adds.
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