Homemade Charcoal Scrubber

Charcoal is an active ingredient in oil-reducing face scrubs.

Charcoal is an excellent scrubbing and absorbent material used to cleanse the face. Activated charcoal is a special kind of charcoal used on the skin. It has been treated with oxygen and is very porous. Scrubs made with this can absorb oil and harmful chemicals from the skin. Activated charcoal has been used in commercially prepared skin and digestive treatments. Enjoy the benefits of activated charcoal at home by making a homemade charcoal skin scrubber.

Select a Storage Container

Select a container to make and store the scrub in. Choose a container with a tightly fitting lid if the scrub will be stored. Purchase a colored, decorative container if the scrub will be given away as a gift. Use a small bowl if enough scrub will only be made to last one day.

Purchase the Ingredients

Buy activated charcoal, which is available at drugstores. Purchase or look around the house for the following: charcoal, water, aloe vera gel, honey and sugar.

Mix the Scrub Ingredients

Place all the ingredients in the storage container selected. Combine all the ingredients until a thick paste is formed. Add additional water to the mixture if necessary to achieve a consistency similar to a clay face mask.

Use the Charcoal Face Scrubber

Apply the charcoal face scrubber to the face using the fingers. Spread it over the entire face and neck. Allow the scrub to dry. Do not apply the scrub over broken skin, because the black color will stain the open area. Rinse the scrub from the face using lots of water.

Save the Scrub for Future Use

Store the scrub in a jar with a tightly fitting lid. Keep the scrub unless it develops an odor. Add water to the scrub before using it again if it dries out.

References

• Soap Making Resource
• HGTV: Homemade Skin Scrubs

Resources

• Natural Holistic Health; The Benefits of Activated Charcoal; Dee Braun; August 2009
• Soap Making Supplies: Charcoal Soap Recipe