Charcoal isn't just for the grill anymore.  Charcoal has been popping up in more and more skincare products, and for good reason.  Its purifying properties make it an ideal skincare ingredient, especially for addressing oily and acne-prone skin.

Activated charcoal has the ability to stick to other substances, so in skincare, it may be able to stick to (and help remove) bacteria and excess oil.  Products that feature activated charcoal as well as other oil-fighting ingredients, like clay, can be even more effective in balancing oily skin and reducing breakouts.

Native Nectar Botanicals' Purifying Facial Mask contains activated coconut charcoal to remove impurities from the skin.  The added ingredients of aloe vera and rosehip seed oil add to the balancing properties of this amazing facial mask.

The Purifying Charcoal Cleanser (also by Native Nectar Botanicals) combines tea tree oil and lavender oil with activated charcoal to bolster the antibacterial properties of this facial cleanser for combination and oily skin.  The ingredients combine to decongest and balance the skin, making it ideal for combination and oily skin types.