Zits, blackheads, whiteheads, pimples. Here you thought that puberty was way behind you, when suddenly you catch a blemish (or two or ten) staring you down in the mirror. After all, you’re in your 20s, 30s, or even 40s, so how can this be happening? Unfortunately, due to rampant stress, pollution, diet, and improper skincare, adult acne has become a real thing. Gone is the myth that acne is a dilemma reserved just for teens. A real misery for sure, ‘til Japanese charcoal arrived on the scene. A common ingredient in Japanese beauty products, binchotan or Japanese charcoal purifies skin by absorbing impurities, dirt, and excess sebum. It’s a go-to when your skin feels wonky or is in dire need of a serious detox. Let’s take a look at some ways that Japanese charcoal can help solve your most woesome acne worries. Problem skin, begone!

Chronic Acne 

If you suffer from chronic breakouts, adult acne can feel like the bane of your existence. It’s as if those painful cysts and lesions never go away, and sometimes worsen no matter what you try. Although it may take time to find the right routine for you, you’ll want to invest in a well thought out skincare regimen to prevent further outbreaks of unwanted acne. A Japanese charcoal-based face wash like the Real Bell Black Charcoal Facial Wash can help support your efforts. The cleanser gently removes impurities from your pores while nourishing the skin with squalene, amino acids, and algae extract, keeping your skin smooth and hydrated.

SHOP: Real Bell Black Charocal Facial Wash

Bacne  

Whether it’s genetic, hygiene, or hormone related, “bacne” or back acne, is simply no fun. It can feel even more stubborn than facial acne, since the skin is thicker on the back and breakouts tend to run deeper. Plus, things like friction from clothes, sweat from workouts, and humid weather can further trigger irritation to your skin. We particularly like the Mutenka Sekken Charcoal Cold Process Soap for bacne issues. Handmade by artisans in Japan, the all-natural soap gently absorbs dirt and sebum from the skin without stripping it of moisture. Camellia oil, jojoba oil, silk, and squalene together form a creamy lather that leaves the skin hydrated and smooth without clogging pores. Plus, the soap can be used in lieu of your daily facial cleanser.

 SHOP: Mutenka Sekken Charcoal Cold Process Soap

Acne in dry skin

“My skin is dry, sensitive, and way past adolescence…but I still find myself breaking out! Help!” If this sounds like you, you’re not alone. In fact, it’s surprisingly common for dry and sensitive skin types to experience breakouts for a multitude of reasons – stress, diet, hormones, and environmental pollution to name a few. However, it can be challenging to find the right remedy, since many acne products tend to be geared towards oily skin types, making them too harsh or astringent for dry skin. We suggest trying charcoal-infused konjac sponges like the JUICY or KOMACHI ones. Originally designed to cleanse baby skin, these all-natural sponges gently remove impurities from your pores while buffing away dead skin cells, leaving your skin soft and glowy. Plus, they can be used all over the body, so don’t forget to take it in the shower with you!