Best Activated Charcoal Cleansers of 2020 Buyer’s Guide

This list is a compilation of our personal favorites, reader recommendations, and top sellers from the Facentials store to make a list for the best activated charcoal cleansers by category.

Here are Facential’s top picks for the best activated charcoal cleansers for 2020.

The Best Activated Charcoal Cleansers

These are the products we recommend:

1. Chilogy Activated Charcoal Cleansers All Natural Anti Aging Daily Skin and Facial Cleanser with Vitamin C, Aloe Vera, and Coconut Oil (6.0 oz)

Features and Benefits

• • Over 150+ Positive Reviews ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

• • POWERFUL ANTIOXIDANT INGREDIENTS – love your skin and keep it hydrated with coconut, sunflower, & olive oils, soothing aloe vera gel, organic orange peel, rooibos leaf extract, white & green tea, vitamins B5 & C and DMAE all of which help improve the skin’s natural firmness, keeps skin hydrated and renews and rejuvenates damaged skin

• • INVIGORATING ALL NATURAL, GENTLE AND SAFE FACE CLEANSER WITH A SOFT CITRUS SCENT – leave your skin silky smooth; this lush, creamy cleanser is perfect for men and women to add to their daily skin care regimen, morning and night; with its anti-aging and brightening ingredients, it helps smooth rough skin and fine wrinkles; best for all skin types and complexions including sensitive, oily and dry; non-irritating formula perfect for the whole family; adults, teens, and children

• DETOXIFYING & DEEP CLEANSING ACTIVATED CHARCOAL – cleanse your pores with charcoal, which is a naturally purifying agent that deep cleans – freeing pores and skin from dirt, oil, and makeup making it a great skincare product for acne control, eczema, rosacea, blemishes, and blackheads

Product Testimonial

“Love this face wash! I don’t usually use any kind of facewash as they irritate my skin. I decided to bite the bullet and try this because the ingredients are natural and include activated charcoal, which seems to be all the craze these days. Well, after a few days of using this face wash, I can tell you my face feels softer, cleaner and more radiant. The soap is very luxurious, and the smell is awesome too. Will buy again!” – ZeroBS

The Chilogy Activated Charcoal Cleansers All Natural Anti Aging Daily Skin and Facial Cleanser with Vitamin C, Aloe Vera, and Coconut Oil (6.0 oz) is Available on Amazon

2. First Botany Cosmeceuticals Activated Charcoal Cleansers with MSM and Vegan DMAE, Vitamin C and Alpha Lipoic acid (4.0 oz)

Features and Benefits

• • Over + Positive Reviews ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

• • Luxurious Low Lathering Face cleanser: First Botany’s Activated Charcoal Cleanser visibly reduces pore size, lifts impurities, bans excess oil, exfoliates, and brightens the complexion.

• • Benefits: Our facial cleanser is beneficial for All Skin Types including sensitive or problem skin & can be effective as a treatment for reducing the appearance of acnes.

• Other Key Ingredients: Our Cleanser creates a smooth, luminous, and healthy-looking complexion. Brimming with purifying black activated charcoal, MSM and vegan DMAE, the formula helps to open the pores, then lifts away dirt, oil, and impurities to combat acne and blemishes. Radiance-boosting vitamin C and Alpha Lipoic acid refine skin texture, fade dark spots, and provide anti-aging and antioxidant protection. Organic Rooibos Tea Extract revitalize the skin and leave it smooth and clear.

The First Botany Cosmeceuticals Activated Charcoal Cleansers with MSM and Vegan DMAE, Vitamin C and Alpha Lipoic acid (4.0 oz) is Available on Amazon

3. Chic Republic Activated Charcoal Cleansers Organic Daily Acne Skincare Face Exfoliating for Smooth Skin + Aloe Vera Gel & Coconut Oil (6.0 oz)

Features and Benefits

• • Over 150+ Positive Reviews ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

• • ACTIVATED CHARCOAL CLEANSER FOR SKIN DETOX: The natural, deep cleansing activated charcoal removes toxins by drawing out and trapping impurities, releasing clogged pores to breathe life into your skin again. It also works as natural exfoliator to remove dead skin cells, with antimicrobial properties that help prevent skin infections.

• ANTIOXIDANT RICH TRIPLE TEA EXTRACT: The triad of calming Rooibos Tea, White Tea, and Green Tea Extract, merges into the perfect combination to work as an antioxidant remedy, defending skin from environmental factors for healthier, supple skin. Great acne face wash treatment.

Product Testimonial

“I am simply loving this face wash! The smell alone is amazing, smells like fresh oranges I love it! My face doesn’t feel dry after washing like most other face wash and you can actually feel it putting moisturizing oils back into your skin! I’m about to be on my fourth bottle of it! I highly recommend for aging skin” – April Renkema

The Chic Republic Activated Charcoal Cleansers Organic Daily Acne Skincare Face Exfoliating for Smooth Skin + Aloe Vera Gel & Coconut Oil (6.0 oz) is Available on Amazon

4. Barbary Activated Charcoal Cleansers Antiaging Skincare and Natural Exfoliation Using 100% Natural Ingredients (6.0 oz)

Features and Benefits

• • Over 200+ Positive Reviews ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

• • MEN’S GROOMING AT ITS BEST – The best facial wash to include in your everyday routine is here. The powers of activated charcoal have been made popular over the last few months and no wonder! Charcoal lifts impurities from your skin and deep cleanses your pores leaving you with a clean and rejuvenating feeling on your face.

• POWERFUL ADVANCED FORMULA KEEPS ACNE UNDER CONTROL- The all-natural deep cleansing wash prevents pimples and blackheads from forming by removing the excess oil that clogs your pores, it will also alleviate redness!

Product Testimonial

“I purchased this because I have delicate skin that becomes red and blotchy from a lot of cleansers. The ingredients contained in this face wash are all natural and soothing to skin. One pump from included pump is all I need to cleanse my face. The product is somewhat thin but it lathers nicely. The citrus scent is refreshing and not overpowering. My skin felt clean and fresh and all makeup was removed without having to scrub. Rinses away easily and leaves no residue, does not stain my skin or face cloth. My skin is soft and hydrated after washing, and I experienced no redness or blotchiness after using. The texture of my skin is smoother and healthier looking. I feel good using this product on my skin because it is all natural with no harmful chemicals.” – Brenda Bell Chute

The Barbary Activated Charcoal Cleansers Antiaging Skincare and Natural Exfoliation Using 100% Natural Ingredients (6.0 oz) is Available on Amazon

5. Shamanuti Activated Charcoal Cleansers to Neutralize Acidity, Absorb Impurities & Reducing Acne, Rosacea + Eczema (6.0 oz)

Features and Benefits

• • Over 60+ Positive Reviews ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

• • Utilizes The Properties Of Activated Charcoal To Neutralize Acidity + Absorb Impurities

• • Beneficial For All Skin Types Including Sensitive Or Problem Skin & Is Very Effective As A Treatment For Reducing Acne, Rosacea + Eczema

• • Gently Exfoliates The Skin With Maple Extract, Is Also An Excellent Shaving Cream + Deodorizing Body Wash

• Paraben free, Sulfate free, Cruelty-free

Product Testimonial

“this charcoal cleanser is concentrated, requiring a very small amount for a pleasing result. it foams during use and is easy to remove. my very sensitive skin immediately looked and felt like it had been calmed and babied, and that is an unusual result for me. there is a light aroma which struck me as natural rather than perfume-y. I am rarely this happy with a facial product” – finngirl13

The Shamanuti Activated Charcoal Cleansers to Neutralize Acidity, Absorb Impurities & Reducing Acne, Rosacea + Eczema (6.0 oz) is Available on Amazon

6. Herbal Unity Activated Charcoal Cleansers Clarifying Formula Organic Tea Tree Oil & Reduces Blackhead Acne Scars (8.0 oz)

Features and Benefits

• • Over 3+ Positive Reviews ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

• • ACTIVATED CHARCOAL  Detox Face Wash is Blended with two types of charcoal, an activated bamboo variety and a white Japanese Binchotan powder, this Natural formula removes toxins and dead skin cells and has antimicrobial properties that help prevent skin infections.

• • NATURAL INGREDIENTS Infused with a concentrated combination of Tea Tree Oil, Aloe Vera Leaf Juice, Tamanu Oil And HyaluronicAcid,, defending skin from environmental contamination. Great acne face wash treatment.

• Packed with extracts, vitamins and oils that will moisturize so as not to destroy your lipid barrier. Effective for all skin types Crème-based cleanser with surfactants. 84% organic content

Product Testimonial

“This product is quite liquid, but it really gives great results on oily skin! I recommend using it no more than twice a week” – Rachel Sarshalom

The Herbal Unity Activated Charcoal Cleansers Clarifying Formula Organic Tea Tree Oil & Reduces Blackhead Acne Scars (8.0 oz) is Available on Amazon

7. Safe House Naturals Activated Charcoal Cleansers for Face and Body Wash + Organic Aloe for Congested Skin, Tea Tree + Clary Sage Fights Acne (8.0 oz)

Features and Benefits

• • Over 170+ Positive Reviews ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

• • All Natural + Organic Skin Care – Peta Approved Cruelty-Free & Vegan – Manufactured in the USA

• • Facial Cleanser With Essential Oils to Fight Acne, Reduce Oils, Clarify Skin, and Promote Healing

• • Uses Activated Charcoal + Bentonite Clay Gently Exfoliate & Pull Toxins from Oily Skin

• Fantastic Organic Aloe Vera to Soothe – Tone & Renews Skin – Coconut Oil & Essential Oils for Anti-Bacterial & Anti-Fungal Properties

Product Testimonial

“This face wash is amazing! I don’t think I have found one that works this well. I started seeing instant results. The first time it tingled a lot, I felt it working on clearing out my pores. Amazing! My breakouts are minimal to none now. My skin stays pretty clear using this. Definitely would purchase again.” – Crystal Marianna

The Safe House Naturals Activated Charcoal Cleansers for Face and Body Wash + Organic Aloe for Congested Skin, Tea Tree + Clary Sage Fights Acne (8.0 oz) is Available on Amazon

8. Ecological Makeup Activated Charcoal Cleansers Clarify & Exfoliate with Green Tea & Essential Oil Extracts (4.0 oz)

Features and Benefits

• • Over 53+ Positive Reviews ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

• • OVE YOUR SKIN, LOVE YOUR INGREDIENTS. NONE OF WHAT YOU DON’T WANT! Steer clear of toxic chemicals and additives that are clogging your pores, irritating your face and causing premature aging. Paraben, sulfite, dye and gluten free. Not tested on animals. Simply a blend of the best organic and natural cleansing, exfoliating and antibacterial extracts which will leave your face clean and radiant!

• GOOD FOR YOU CAN BE GORGEOUS! That’s the philosophy behind Ecological Makeup. You don’t have to give up a luxurious daily beauty routine or be stuck with ineffective, smelly and expensive solutions to maintain your organic lifestyle. We’ve researched every ingredient and tried them all to bring you the best quality products that won’t break the bank. Whenever possible we source organic, Earth kind materials and look for opportunities to make green living easier. 

Product Testimonial

“Gentle cleanser that leaves a moisturizing effect behind. It is neat, and you use very very little – about less than a full pump – for face cleaning. The consistency is somewhere between a liquid and a cream.
Now that I have used this for about 3 months, I like it even more. It clears skin well, rinses off and leaves skin soft. Putting blackseed oil in my moisturizer after this works even better.” – Emily Sandstrom

The Ecological Makeup Activated Charcoal Cleansers Clarify & Exfoliate with Green Tea & Essential Oil Extracts (4.0 oz) is Available on Amazon

9. Miami Gorgeous Activated Charcoal Cleansers for Oily, Dry & Sensitive Skin Daily Acne Skincare Face Exfoliating for Clean & Smooth Skin (4.0 oz)

Features and Benefits

• • Over + Positive Reviews ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

• • PREMIUM ACTIVATED CHARCOAL CLEANSER FOR A DEWY SKIN – The Miami Gorgeous charcoal face cleanser is an all natural exfoliator formulated with pure vitamins and minerals that provides deep pore cleansing on your skin. This face wash is contains Activated Charcoal which is pH balanced that removes dirt, draw out impurities, pulls unwanted excess oil from your skin and tackle acne away for a smooth and glowing complexion

• 100% NATURAL SKIN CARE FORMULA MADE IN USA – Our proprietary formula contains aloe vera, citrus, green tea, cucumber, chamomile and organic ingredients that is safe for all skin types. Our detox face wash is free of parabens, gluten, and never tested on animals

Product Testimonial

“I was very hesitant at first to use this product since it was black and most of my cleansers or either clear or white but as soon as I got passed that and tried it out I was pleasantly surprised!! The black quickly turns into a lighter foamy color and lathers in perfectly. I used it after a long day with dirt and makeup on my face. After washing and rinsing I loved it! Smells amazing and left my skin so soft and clean. I think the charcoal in it is the secret ingredient! Love” – Rona Greenberg

The Miami Gorgeous Activated Charcoal Cleansers for Oily, Dry & Sensitive Skin Daily Acne Skincare Face Exfoliating for Clean & Smooth Skin (4.0 oz) is Available on Amazon

10. Holistic Apothecary Activated Charcoal Cleansers With Bentonite Clay for a Clear and Refined Complexion – No SLS, Parabens, Artificial Color (2.0 oz)

Features and Benefits

• • Over 40+ Positive Reviews ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

• • Gently Cleanses & Clears the Complexion without over drying. Can be used daily to wash face and remove makeup.

• Activated Charcoal & Bentonite Clay pulls toxins and clears pores while Lemongrass, Teatree & Oregano fight bacteria.

Product Testimonial

“I have oily acne prone skin and this stuff has been amazing. I’ve been using it for the past two weeks and have noticed less and less acne forming. My chin has been acne free for over a week and that is very rare. I first steam my face then rub some of this on and add water. Then I use my Clarisonic for added scrubbing.” – Jen

The Holistic Apothecary Activated Charcoal Cleansers With Bentonite Clay for a Clear and Refined Complexion – No SLS, Parabens, Artificial Color (2.0 oz) is Available on Amazon

11. Majestic Pure Activated Charcoal Cleansers For Detoxifying, Deep Pore Cleansing, and Revitalizing (4.0 oz)

Features and Benefits

• • Over + Positive Reviews ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

• • Majestic Pure Activated Charcoal Facial Cleanser is formulated with organic rooibos tea extract, alpha lipolic acid, vitamin C, vitamin A, and activated charcoal; works for both men and women to rejuvenate and refine the skin; made in the USA

• Activated charcoal face cleanser acts like a magnet to attract and absorb dirt and oil from your skin, giving you a deep cleaned feeling; excellent for acne prone skin; detoxify and rejuvenate, effectively exfoliate skin while giving it the moisturizing minerals and nutrients it needs

The Majestic Pure Activated Charcoal Cleansers For Detoxifying, Deep Pore Cleansing, and Revitalizing (4.0 oz) is Available on Amazon

12. Beau Brummell Activated Charcoal Cleansers For Eliminating Excessive Oil and Helps Prevent Acne (8.0 oz)

Features and Benefits

• Over + Positive Reviews ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
• REDUCE EXCESS OILS – No guy likes having oily skin but those natural oils are what the skin needs. So what is the solution? Our face cleanser is formulated to maintain healthy oil levels without drying out your skin while also eliminating unsightly shine caused by greasy skin. The perfect combination of ingredients to find a healthy balance of natural face oils.
• DAILY ACNE CLEANSER – Fight back against blackheads and acne. Stop using harmful chemicals on your face which can irritate sensitive skin. An effective acne cleanser that prevents future breakouts with naturally antiseptic organic spearmint oil

Product Testimonial

“Phenomenal product. Activated charcoal has so many uses and benefits. Yes, when it comes out of the bottle it’s black, but as soon as you lather it up it looks like normal soap. It leaves my skin feeling cleaner and more moisturized than any other face wash I’ve found. I would buy it again.” – blue10speed

The Beau Brummell Activated Charcoal Cleansers For Eliminating Excessive Oil and Helps Prevent Acne (8.0 oz) is Available on Amazon

13. Brickell Men’s Activated Charcoal Cleansers Face Wash for Men Using Jojoba Oil and Aloe Vera (8.0 oz)

Features and Benefits

• • Over 600+ Positive Reviews ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

• • What It Does: This men’s facial cleanser gently removes oil and bacteria from deep within the pores without irritating or drying out the skin.

• • Who It’s For: Men of any age with dry, sensitive, and normal type skin can use this men’s face wash. Men with oily skin should use our Clarifying Gel Face Wash.

• How It Works: This refreshing, natural face wash for men is a cleanser packed with moisturizing extracts and vitamins. Charcoal gently deep-cleans your pores. The result is refreshed and hydrated skin.

Product Testimonial

“The charcoal face wash does not lather – this can throw some people off (as it did me in the beginning), such that it cannot do its job because we have been shown by other face wash companies that lathering means it will work. Those companies use chemicals and agents to cause this lathering — it isn’t needed for you to have a clean face. You may have to adapt your mind and amount to what’s needed with this product. Use it over the course of a few weeks, and you’ll notice the difference.” – Z

The Brickell Men’s Activated Charcoal Cleansers Face Wash for Men Using Jojoba Oil and Aloe Vera (8.0 oz) is Available on Amazon

14. Lather & Wood Shaving Co. Activated Charcoal Cleansers Gently Pulls Daily Buildup of Dirt and Oil from Your Skin (8.0 oz)

Features and Benefits

• • Over 1+ Positive Reviews ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

• • TRUSTED BY SMART GENTLEMEN WORLDWIDE, let Lather & Wood help you look and feel like a million bucks.

• • FORMULATED FOR THE RIGORS OF BEING A MAN- Designed with premium activated charcoal to pull out daily build up of dirt and pollution from your skin. Avoid that harsh dried out face with a non- drying formula, Hydrating organic aloe does the heavy lifting to preserve your skins moisture for the ultimate comfort. For use with dry, normal, and oily skin.

• A LITTLE GOES A LONG WAY – For a face that never looked so healthy, just quarter size in the palm is more than enough. A pleasant cool tingling sensation lets you know its working. Mild, gentle and soothing feel, use daily in the shower or at the sink, at night or in the morning depending on your personal routine.

Product Testimonial

“I really like this face wash. Leaves my face feeling fresh and clean without that dry feeling many others give me. However, the soap is quite thick so it needs to be in a bottle you can leave upside down to keep the soap ready to dispense. This current bottle forces you to shake the bottle like an old ketchup bottle which is annoying. They should put in a larger version of the bottle they use for their facial scrub.” – J. Proctor

The Lather & Wood Shaving Co. Activated Charcoal Cleansers Gently Pulls Daily Buildup of Dirt and Oil from Your Skin (8.0 oz) is Available on Amazon

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