Carbon, typically used as activated charcoal in skincare, is a porous form of carbon valued for its ability to adsorb oils, dirt, and impurities from the skin surface. It is commonly incorporated into cleansers, masks, and exfoliating products as a detoxifying or purifying agent.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Skin dryness | Uncommon | May occur with overuse due to its oil-absorbing properties, particularly on already dry skin. |
| Mild skin irritation | Uncommon | Possible with abrasive charcoal scrubs or in sensitive individuals. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Reactions are typically attributed to other formulation components rather than carbon itself. |
| Mechanical micro-abrasion | Rare | Coarse charcoal particles in scrubs may cause microtears with vigorous use. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
Peer-reviewed papers on this ingredient, via PubMed.