MASK ON. The secret to flawless complexion includes masking at least once a week—twice, if you’re a skincare fanatic like myself. Whether it’s to treat acne, pores, or dull skin, it will give you that oomph you’ve been looking for. I highly recommend Wednesday nights for masking to help you get through mid-week struggles. My current favorite mask? A cocktail incorporating charcoal powder. It simply does it all. 

The Origins of Activated Charcoal 

For centuries, activated charcoal has been used by ancient civilizations and a variety of cultures for medicinal and aesthetic purposes. This all-encompassing black powder was traditionally used for holistic medicine in Asian cultures which dates back to 1550 BC. In the 19^th century, it was commonly known as an antidote for poison. That’s right, this universal antidote can even cure hangovers and save you from that leftover poké sitting in the bottom of your stomach. All jokes aside, it is no surprise that activated charcoal has been taking the beauty industry by storm. It has tons of detoxifying properties derived from its ability to extract impurities from the skin as if it were a magnet.

What is activated charcoal?

Activated charcoal is typically derived from burning wood, coal, or bamboo in a sans-oxygen environment. Once burned, the char is collected and ready to be activated. It is heated to a high temperature where carbon atoms are peeled off layer by layer, creating a porous carbon skeleton. This allows activated charcoal to filter the various toxic impurities through the process of adsorption (getting a little scientific here...)—perfect for extracting all the build-up that's on top of and deeply rooted within our skin.

WHY IT'S GOOD FOR SKIN:

• Removes deeply-rooted toxins 
• Exfoliates dead skin 
• Effectively treats acne 
• Unclogs pores
• Balances complexion
• Calms irritation
• Removes excess sebum

How do I incorporate activated charcoal in my beauty routine?

To try out this natural remedy, we suggest adding one of these ingredients to create the perfect charcoal mask cocktail:

Yogurt: moisturizes, reduces wrinkles and fine lines, and fights acne

Honey: cleanses, protects the skin, and heals scarring

Milk: shrinks pores, hydrates the skin, and removes dead skin cells

Apple Cider Vinegar: eliminates toxins, evens out complexion, and balances skin pH

Let's make this easier for you.

Check out this DIY Detox Mask: Charcoal Cardamom. This is some dark magic that works wonders for your skin. Honey Belle's newest DIY detox powder incorporates activated charcoal, bentonite clay (detoxifying volcanic ash), and cardamom (youth-promoting herbs) that's perfect for concocting a customized experience for you to achieve flawless complexion. Those stubborn little clogged pores on your nose, chin, & cheeks have met their match! Say goodbye to dull skin and hellooo to your holiday glow!

Let us know what your favorite mixture is in the comments below 😊✨!

<3 Hazel B.

#charcgoals x #lifeofabelle