Before you grab the charcoal from your barbecue grill — no, that’s not what we’re talking about! Activated charcoal is slowly making it into millennials’ skincare routines, but this one ingredient has been used for hundreds of years for medicinal purposes.
This special kind of charcoal works by trapping toxins in its porous surface and also has super absorption powers. It is used to treat alcohol poisoning and drug overdoses, so it’s safe to say that activated charcoal can help effectively rid our bodies of harmful chemicals.
Here are some ways it can help us:
5. It prevents bloating
You can take activated charcoal in capsule, liquid or powder form but if you want the most convenient way, take the capsules. Take them between meals, when your stomach is emptier.
Note that activated charcoal isn’t supposed to be taken daily as a vitamin, so only take them when necessary.
4. It purifies skin
Using activated charcoal mask on skin can help remove excess oil. It absorbs and attracts dirt and oil, leaving our skin cleaner and smoother. Put 2 capsules of activated charcoal into aloe vera gel, mix them together, then apply it onto your face. Leave for 15 minutes and rinse. Your skin will feel brighter and cleaner.
3. It helps us avoid hangovers
If you’re going out for a crazy night of drinking but don’t want to nurse a hangover the next day, taking 1.5 grams of activated charcoal after the deal will help you avoid a head-splitting hangover. Don’t forget to chug down lots of water too!
2. Relieves itchy bites
Yes, this multi-purpose detoxifier can help alleviate the itchiness and pain from bug bites and bee stings too. If you have a nasty insect bite, apply a paste of activated charcoal with water to the bite area to relieve it of swelling or itching.
1. Removes teeth stains
Mix activated charcoal powder with water until its consistency is thick enough. You can apply it on your toothbrush or dab the paste directly on your teeth and brush for 2-3 minutes. Note that there could be possible staining if you have crowns or porcelain veneers. If you have sensitive teeth, the abrasiveness of charcoal can cause pain so it’s advisable to quit using it if pain occurs.
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