Ask the Expert: Are Charcoal Scrubs Good For Your Skin?

If a charcoal scrub is next on your skincare shopping list, you're unlikely to have trouble finding one. That's because charcoal skincare products — from sheet masks to facial cleansers — are some of the trendiest products on the market right now. Much of its popularity has to do with charcoal and its benefits for your skin. So while it may seem like the charcoal craze is coming to an end, we're here to tell you that it's not exactly the case. Read on to brush up on the benefits of charcoal for your skin. In addition, we asked Board Certified Dermatologist and Skincare.com Consultant Dr. Dandy Engelman if charcoal scrubs are a good addition to your skin care routine.

What are the benefits of charcoal for the skin?

We don't just see one or two charcoal-based skincare products that grab attention, but dozens. From charcoal sheet masks to blotting papers, the use of charcoal in such a wide range of skin care products should bring real benefits to the skin. So why is coal so important now? You may already know this, but activated charcoal is not exactly a new ingredient. It has been used for decades in skin care.

“Activated charcoal contains carbon molecules that act like a magnet, attracting and absorbing dirt and oil,” says Dr. Engelman. “When the dirt and oil in your pores come into contact with the charcoal, they stick to it and then are washed away when you rinse.”

Are charcoal scrubs good for your skin? 

You've probably already caught the answer, which sounds in the affirmative! Simply put, a charcoal scrub can help reduce the amount of impurities on the skin's surface and, in turn, reduce the risk of clogged pores. Result over time? Clear skin and radiant complexion. 

However, Dr. Engelman explains that a charcoal-based cleanser or scrub may not provide the same benefits as a charcoal mask that is left on the skin for a longer period of time. “By design, cleansers don’t stay on the face for more than a minute, so the activated charcoal in a cleanser or scrub will help remove surface impurities,” she says. If you need a deep cleansing, Dr. Engelman recommends a charcoal face mask. which can stay on the skin for up to 10 minutes and can sink into the pores.

Who can use a charcoal scrub?

Charcoal scrubs are often recommended for people with oily or acne-prone skin. Some formulas may be gentle enough for all skin types, so check your product selection and read the label carefully.

AcneFree Charcoal Blackhead Scrub

Now that you know why charcoal scrubs are so popular with fans, let me introduce you to one of our favorites in the L'Oreal brand portfolio: AcneFree Charcoal Blackhead Scrub. The name says it all, but this scrub can help get rid of blackheads. As a reminder, blackheads form when dirt and debris clog pores. When this blockage is exposed to air, it oxidizes and turns black. To help remove that pore-clogging dirt and prevent it from building up in the first place, this charcoal scrub can be very beneficial.

AcneFree charcoal blackhead scrub contains salicylic acid and charcoal and can not only treat acne and blackheads, but also exfoliate the skin at the same time. Let this be your new remedy to help you get rid of blackheads and deeply cleanse your skin of dirt, oil and impurities.

The rules of use are simple. Start by moisturizing your hands and face. Squeeze the scrub onto your hands, then rub them together. Apply to the face and gently massage into the skin, avoiding the sensitive area around the eyes, and rinse. Then apply your favorite moisturizer.

AcneFree Charcoal Blackhead Scrub. MSRP $7.