Cosmetic uses of activated charcoal

Authors

  • Muhsana Sajjad Department of Research, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
  • Rida Sarwar Department of Research, Sindh Medical College, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan
  • Tooba Ali Department of Research, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
  • Laiba Khan Department of Research, Sindh Medical College, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan
  • Syed Uzair Mahmood Department of Medicine, Health and Life Science, The Queens University of Belfast, United Kingdom

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20213569

Keywords:

Activated charcoal, Cosmetics, Face masks, Peel off masks, Skin care

Abstract

Within the past few years, activated charcoal is being actively used in cosmetic products. Due to its adsorbing properties, it is being used in all sorts of beauty products from face masks to cleansers and even soaps. In the past, activated charcoal has been used as the treatment of poisoning but now with cosmetic companies claiming charcoal's aptness in treating skin blemishes, it has regained popularity. However, there is little to no clinical evidence to support these claims. In this study, we review the current use of activated charcoal in cosmetic products and its effectiveness. With limited research, its vigorous and unregulated use in over the counter beauty products can turn out to be unsafe. Although its use as an antidote for poisoning is evident, trials to confirm its effectiveness in treating skin conditions like acne, dark spots, dermatitis need to be prioritized to render it safe to be used in cosmetic products.

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Published

2021-08-27

How to Cite

Sajjad, M., Sarwar, R., Ali, T., Khan, L., & Mahmood, S. U. (2021). Cosmetic uses of activated charcoal. International Journal Of Community Medicine And Public Health, 8(9), 4572–4574. https://doi.org/10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20213569

Issue

Section

Review Articles