Why charcoal is our new favourite beauty ingredient

This year, you’ll be happy to find coal in your stocking. Read on to find out why companies are adding charcoal to their products, and learn what it can do for your skin

1 / 5

Lush Dark Angels

This sugary charcoal cleanser gently exfoliates, and it eliminates impurities. On oily, acne-prone skin, it leaves a smooth, matte look. Sensitive and combination skin types will benefit from its hydrating avocado oil. ($13, 100 g; lush.ca)

2 / 5

Bioré Self Heating One-Minute Mask

Give stressed-out skin a deep cleansing with this quick and effective thermal mask. Heat opens pores while natural charcoal draws out dirt and oil. A cooling sen­sation leaves skin feeling tingly-clean. ($10, four single-use packets; biore.ca)

3 / 5

Boscia Revitalizing Black Hydration Gel

This gel moisturizer minimizes the appearance of pores and brightens skin. Charcoal combats oil; artichoke leaf extract helps to restore elasticity. ($47, 30 mL; sephora.ca)

4 / 5

Garnier Pure Control Acne Gel Scrub

The absorbing charcoal powder in this deep-cleansing scrub gets rid of excess sebum and impurities, while 2 percent salicylic acid works to prevent breakouts. ($11, 100 mL, garner.ca)

5 / 5

Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask

Environmental toxins, dirt and debris get trapped under the skin, resulting in a dull complexion and breakouts. This detoxifying mask rescues skin with three purifying ingredients, including activated charcoal, White China clay and lecithin. ($30, 100 mL, origins.com)

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