Charcoal: An ancient material with a new face

Activated charcoal has become popular in the cosmetic industry and is found in a variety of products, including facial cleansers and soaps. For centuries, charcoal has been used as an antidote for poisonings, but now companies claim that charcoal-containing products can treat acne, dandruff, and others; however, clinical evidence does not support these claims. Patients should be counseled that the use of activated charcoal is generally safe but advised that there is a lack of evidence to support its exfoliative or anti-aging abilities.

Source: Clinics in Dermatology - February 29, 2020 Category: Dermatology Authors: Nelson Sanchez, Rachel Fayne, Brandon Burroway Tags: Reflections on Dermatology: Past, Present, and Future Source Type: research