Charcoal
We've all heard about the purifying benefits of activated charcoal. They ring true, but just like clay, charcoal treatments are best kept to a minimum lest we want skin to start drying out. Scan packages for usage instructions and adhere to them. For example, it's typically recommended to start off using a charcoal mask once, maybe twice, a week. Leaving them on for longer isn't better. If it says 10 minutes, set a timer.
Make sure to follow a charcoal treatment with a nourishing moisturizer to keep skin balanced.
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Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid is an AHA and it's the one Board Certified Dermatologist Rose Ingleton, MD has singled out, specifically exfoliants with glycolic acid. "Exfoliants with glycolic acid and gritty particles can cause irritation and micro-abrasions on the skin if used too frequently," says Ingleton. "[They] should be used no more than one to two times per week." In general, it's a good tip to keep exfoliating sessions to a few times a week.
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