cosmetic market, which may partly
explain why we’re now seeing acti-
vated charcoal in so many products—
it has long been used in those coun-
tries as a purifying ingredient. But
there’s another reason for its recent
popularity: marketers know we’re suck-
ers for anything novel. “Activated char-
coal is highly Instagrammable,” says
Langer. “It’s that simple.”
The charcoal in activated charcoal is
created by burning carbon-rich mate-
rials such as wood, peat, bamboo, coco-
nut shells and olive pits, transforming
them into a concentrated black sub-
stance. Then the charcoal is “activated”
by steaming it at high temperatures,
which opens up its carbon structure
and makes it porous, full of nooks and
crannies that can bind all kinds of
gunk (dirt, oil, odour-causing bacteria)
on its surface.
Does it really improve beauty
and hygiene products?
Here’s the thing: despite anecdotal
reports of clear, glowing skin from
nutritionists, personal trainers and
celebrities like Kim Kardashian and
Gwyneth Paltrow, there is no clinical
evidence for the effectiveness of acti-
vated charcoal as a beauty ingredient.
There simply hasn’t been any substan-
tive research or large studies to inves-
tigate the claims.
Likewise, there is no good evidence
showing that using charcoal products
for oral health will make your breath
fresher or teeth whiter. In a CBC story
last year, the Canadian Dental Associ-
ation wouldn’t recommend using
charcoal products because they have
no demonstrated health benefits, and
they may even be too abrasive and
damaging to your enamel.
If you’re seeking brighter skin, a
whiter smile and a healthier gut, drink-
ing plenty of water every day and eat-
ing high-fibre foods is a better way to
go. “Spend your money on food that is
whole and minimally processed,” says
Langer. “And be reassured that we’re
not walking around with pounds of
sludge in our body to detoxify.”What about the activated
charcoal in food? Is it really okay
to eat this stuff all the time?
In addition to ice cream, activated
charcoal is being used by restaurants
and food brands to turn pizza crusts,
ramen broth, burger buns, cold-pressed
juices, cocktails and a long list of
other things a deep black hue. So
before you shell out extra cash for an
activated charcoal–boosted lemon-
ade, remember that you’re paying forACTIVATED CHARCOAL
WAS FIRST USED AS APOISON
ANTIDOTE
209 YEARS AGO.rd.ca 19