Activated Charcoal for Acne Scars

Activated charcoal is a porous substance that has the neat ability to absorb other substances. For example, it can be used to absorb moisture from the air if you keep a pot of it in a damp place like your bathroom cupboard.

Due to its absorption ability, activated charcoal can be used for acne and acne scars. It is a nice, natural way to absorb excess oil and draw out impurities, leading to less clogged, smoother looking skin.

How to use activated charcoal for acne scars

Ok, so charcoal can be helpful in your acne regime, but what about acne scars?! We are talking about the “spots” that are often left over after a squeeze session, not deeper scars that require a visit to your skin professional.

These dark pigmentation spots left over after a pimple are part of the healing process of your skin. And while they are not harmful and usually disappear on their own within a few weeks, why not help that process along?

Activated charcoal works for acne scars by gently drawing dead skin cells away from the surface of the skin, including those pigmented skin cells that we are getting rid of! This reveals smoother, clearer skin underneath. The texture of charcoal also provides a light exfoliation to further smooth and even out your complexion.

Bonus: activated charcoal prevents acne and pimples

Another way that this natural ingredient helps with scarring is by preventing acne and pimples from forming in the first place. A regular activated charcoal face mask is therefore a worthy addition to your skin care routine. See the best products below, including an DIY option.

Best activated charcoal products

Boscia Luminizing Charcoal Mask — Peel Off, Vegan, includes Vitamin C for extra brightening:

Biore Warming Charcoal Mask: single use (4 packs included)

Prefer to make a DIY scar mask?

If you don’t want to purchase a charcoal mask, make one yourself using two ancient, natural ingredients! All you need is activated charcoal and bentonite clay. Here is what to do:

• Mix equal parts activated charcoal and bentonite clay with enough water to form a past
• Apply this paste to skin, concentrating on any acne scars or pigmented, darkened areas
• Leave on for 15minutes. It dry and harden on your skin
• Gently rinse by first wetting your fingers with warm water then massaging your skin to remoisten the mask and make it easier to remove

Use this DIY skin brightening mask three or four times a week and enjoy smoother, clearer skin!