Bamboo Charcoal Mask: What It Is, Benefits, How to Use One and More

• Charcoal masks are typically used to treat a number of concerns and to lift impurities from the skin
• Activated bamboo charcoal masks are more porous than standard charcoal which increases its ability to absorb
• Benefits include removing toxins, exfoliating dead skin cells, balancing oils and brightening skin 

Charcoal face masks are popular choices to exfoliate, detoxify and clear skin. These masks vary in type and quality based on the composition of the materials used as well as the type of charcoal. Activated bamboo charcoal masks are believed to be more effective for drawing out impurities from skin due to their greater absorbency.

What Is an Activated Bamboo Charcoal Mask?       

Bamboo charcoal is made from harvested fragments of bamboo plants which are then burned at very high temperatures to produce the activated charcoal. This material has been demonstrated to be far more porous than nonactivated charcoal: it has ten times more surface area and is four times stronger in its absorption rate. 

Activated bamboo charcoal face masks are designed to be rinsed off or peeled from your skin.

Benefits of Activated Bamboo Charcoal Face Masks

While charcoal has been used to counteract the effects of poisonings for centuries, it is only in the last decade that it has been incorporated into a number of skin care products including creams, cleansers and shampoos, with various claims made by the manufacturers as to their efficacy. 

While there are few clinical studies to support the many claimed benefits of bamboo charcoal masks on skin, these masks are very popular and anecdotal evidence from users suggests they do offer several benefits.

You can choose a charcoal mask that also contains active ingredients, to not only benefit from the charcoal itself but to personalize your treatment based on your skin type, concern and preferences.

Brightens skin

Charcoal can provide a brighter complexion by removing debris and dead skin cells. As a bonus, the peeling action of the mask itself serves to gently remove the top layer of skin and acts as an exfoliant.  

In one study of female participants on this topic, researchers found that peel-off masks enlarged pores to enhance the cleansing process and removed dead skin cells and inorganic contaminants. Skin cells were observed to revert to normal size within 1 hour of use. As well, the masks did not cause redness or swelling. 

Reduces acne

Charcoal has antibacterial and antimicrobial qualities as shown in a comparative study of a charcoal toothbrush versus a noncharcoal toothbrush. Applying this same principle to acne, charcoal could produce the same results and help heal this condition by reducing the presence of bacteria on skin. 

As well, due to the superior absorption rate of activated charcoal, these masks are effective in drawing out debris and excess oils from pores. Clogged or oily skin causes pores to appear larger and encourages acne to develop.

In one in vitro study of a gel containing charcoal and several botanicals, researchers stated that 

activated charcoal drew toxins, dirt and other microparticles to the surface of skin to help fight acne and to achieve a clear complexion.

Improves eczema and psoriasis

While there is currently no evidence to support this, since charcoal has antibacterial and antimicrobial qualities, it may be ideal to help soothe inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. It can also clear skin by removing impurities and flaky, dead skin cells. 

As charcoal can have a drying effect, choose a mask with nourishing properties such as hyaluronic acid or plant oils such as eucalyptus, chamomile or tea tree oil—all known for their skin soothing effects—to hydrate and soften skin. 

How to Use an Activated Bamboo Charcoal Mask

Before applying a mask, first cleanse and tone your face; this will allow the active ingredients in your mask to be better absorbed.

Some masks are designed to be gently peeled from the skin while others are rinsed off. As a general rule, rinse-off masks are gentler than peel-off masks as the tugging and pulling can be harsh to skin, especially sensitive skin. Use caution and patience when removing the mask from your face.

To apply a rinse-off charcoal mask:

1. Apply a thin layer of the mask to your face using fingertips or a soft-bristled brush; avoid the eye area
2. Allow to rest for 10–15 minutes or as advised on the product label
3. Gently rinse off with lukewarm water

To apply a peel-off mask:

1. Apply a thin layer of the mask to your face using fingertips or a soft-bristled brush; avoid the eye area
2. Allow to rest for 10–15 minutes or as advised on the product label
3. Slowly and gently peel the mask off your face, beginning at the top left and right corners; once removed, rinsing is not necessary

Afterward, apply a hydrating moisturizer or serum to prevent dryness from occurring.

You can use a charcoal face mask 1–3 times per week depending on your skin type and needs; those with dry or sensitive skin should use a mask with caution and less often than oily or normal skin.

Side Effects

As charcoal is a strong absorbent, it can strip away the natural protective oils from your skin. If used too often, this can compromise your skin’s protective barrier, causing skin to become dry, irritated and open to inflammatory skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis.

To avoid this, don’t overuse charcoal masks and if you notice any irritation or redness, discontinue use.

Other Types of Charcoal Masks

While activated bamboo charcoal masks offer greater absorbency and possibly better results than standard charcoal masks, those with added ingredients are generally the most beneficial for your skin.

For example, some charcoal masks contain bentonite clay, a naturally occurring absorbent  substance that has been shown to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory characteristics, making it an ideal choice for acne-prone skin.

If you have dry or sensitive skin, consider a charcoal mask with hyaluronic acid or jojoba oil to rehydrate and strengthen skin. The addition of salicylic acid can also work well with acne prone skin as it can exfoliate pores to treat and prevent comedones, target inflammation and reduce swelling. 

Takeaway

Bamboo charcoal is more porous than nonactivated charcoal and therefore has a much greater absorption rate.

Activated bamboo charcoal masks are popular skin care solutions and widely used to target acne, oiliness, enlarged pores, dead skin cells and debris. Advocates of this substance believe these masks can effectively exfoliate, detoxify, smooth and brighten a dull complexion.

As charcoal can be drying, it is best to use these masks no more than 3 times a week; for those with dry or sensitive skin, ensure you choose a product that includes hydrating ingredients to ensure your skin remains hydrated and comfortable.