We're often told that there's one ingredient above all others that is 'on trend' and 'of the moment', but mostly it's an excuse to get us to buy more things we don't really need. However, when that ingredient has genuine skincare benefits and has been used for generations to help clear and refine problematic skin, it's worth ignoring the hype and trying to get to the bottom of why it's deemed so newsworthy. Charcoal is an ingredient that has long been used in skin care treatments, thanks to its chemical properties that allow the substances to draw out impurities. Although it's no glamorous superfood or deliciously scented fruity boost, it's definitely having a moment and popping up in all kinds of skin treatments and face masks. So is it really a new must-have skincare ingredient that helps achieve clear and healthy skin, and what products should you be giving a whirl to see if it works for you"
Charcoal is known to chemically bind other substances to its surface and can absorb thousands of times its own weight; it's been used in hospitals for decades to treat alcohol and drug abuse, as it's able to attach itself to toxins in the stomach before they're absorbed into the bloodstream. When used in beauty it works like a magnet to attract dirt and oil, making it perfect for use in cleansers and masks that work by purifying the skin. If you suffer with breakouts, have a tendency to shine or simply need to detox after a hardcore few days, then a product containing cha...