Aroma-Zone plant-based activated charcoal

INCI Name: Charcoal

NATURAL / SYNTHETIC

100% plant-based, 100% pure and natural. High-quality activated charcoal for cosmetic and food use.

VEGAN – CERTIFICATIONS

BIOCHEMICAL COMPOSITION

100% pure activated vegetable charcoal.

TRACEABILITY & SUSTAINABILITY

Aroma-Zone plant-based activated charcoal is 100% plant-based, 100% pure and natural. It is produced by calcining coconut shells, followed by thermal activation in the presence of steam (without the use of chemicals, unlike many other activated carbons). It has a specific surface area (BET) of 1,600–1,800 m²/g, which is an exceptionally high value and corresponds to excellent adsorption capacity.

Activated vegetable charcoal is characterised by a microporous structure and an exceptional exchange surface area, making it a versatile adsorbent that is particularly effective at capturing organic and inorganic compounds. Its action is based on the physical mechanism of adsorption: thanks to its high surface reactivity, it is able to retain certain molecules upon contact.

In cosmetics, this unique ability offers a genuine solution for skincare. Used as an active ingredient in face masks, soaps or exfoliating treatments, it helps to remove impurities and pollutants that build up on a daily basis. Its hydrophobic nature enables it to target these unwanted substances whilst preserving the skin’s natural moisture balance.

This effectiveness is also observed in relation to gut health. Clinical studies confirm that activated charcoal helps to alleviate excess gas and feelings of bloating. In particular, it helps to reduce hydrogen levels measured in exhaled air, a key indicator of gas production in the colon.

The effectiveness of activated plant-based charcoal lies in its unique physical characteristics: a microporous structure and a very high surface area, which make it an ideal adsorbent for capturing organic compounds and pollutants. In cosmetics, these properties provide an effective solution for purifying the skin by trapping impurities on its surface.

This adsorption capacity is also central to its effect on gut wellbeing, as validated by several research studies*. Double-blind trials conducted on populations with varied dietary habits (notably in the United States and India) have demonstrated that activated charcoal helps to significantly reduce the production of colic gas. These studies measured a reduction in exhaled hydrogen levels (p < 0.05) compared with a placebo. Scientific data also show a reduction in feelings of bloating and abdominal discomfort associated with the presence of gas. Further research confirms its effectiveness in limiting the increase in episodes of flatulence and hydrogen concentrations following the consumption of a gas-producing meal.

*Please refer to the scientific bibliography for further information.

A Note from Adeline Nalin, Head Pharmacist and Toxicologist at Aroma-Zone

“Activated vegetable charcoal is generally well tolerated by the body. Thanks to its highly porous structure, it acts like a sponge in the digestive system by trapping gases and certain substances present in the gut, which are then naturally eliminated in the stools. Due to its adsorbent properties and its effect on intestinal contents, it may cause mild digestive discomfort in some people; this is usually temporary and subsides once supplementation is stopped. Activated vegetable charcoal is intended for occasional use or over a short period, in accordance with the instructions for use.”

Adeline Nalin - Head Pharmacist and Toxicologist

A Note from Our Aroma-Zone Toxicologist

“Plant-based activated charcoal is considered safe when taken orally. As very little is absorbed by the body, its action is mainly confined to the gastrointestinal tract, which significantly reduces the risk of systemic effects. As its binding capacity is non-selective, it may reduce the bioavailability of other substances, nutrients or medicines. It is therefore recommended that it be taken well away from mealtimes, and separate from other dietary supplements and medication.”

Adeline Nalin – Head Pharmacist and Toxicologist

A Note from the Dermatologis

“Activated charcoal is characterised by a microporous structure that gives it a high adsorption capacity, enabling it to capture sebum, bacteria and certain pollution particles.

It has a detoxifying effect and provides mild anti-blemish action. It is easy to use as a face mask or incorporated into cleansers. It is compatible with active ingredients such as azelaic acid and glycolic acid. However, it should be used with caution on atopic and sensitive skin, with particular attention paid to moisturising after application to prevent dryness.”

Dr Reyhan Amode – Dermatologist

Activated vegetable charcoal is used in formulations for its adsorbent effect, which explains its inclusion in so-called “detox” skincare products. As an insoluble powder, it does not dissolve in the aqueous phase and remains in suspension within formulations, requiring appropriate homogenisation to ensure even distribution. It is also incorporated into certain toothpastes, where its use is associated with a whitening effect, due to its ability to bind certain compounds on the surface of the teeth.

Activated vegetable charcoal is mainly used in skincare products designed for skin exposed to environmental factors or visible skin imbalances. It is found in particular in formulations designed for skin exposed to pollution or stress, as well as for smokers’ skin, which is often associated with a duller complexion.

It is also incorporated into skincare products for acne-prone skin, where it is used as part of a so-called ‘skin detox’ approach, alongside routines designed to restore a clearer complexion.

Finally, beyond its role in skincare, activated charcoal can also be used as a plant-based black colourant, offering an alternative for those wishing to avoid mineral oxides.

Activated vegetable charcoal helps to reduce excess intestinal gas and associated discomfort, such as bloating, under certain conditions of use.

In cosmetic formulations, however, activated vegetable charcoal is used in skincare products designed to address issues related to the appearance of the skin, particularly in so-called detoxifying and purifying masks, where it forms part of a process to cleanse and clarify the complexion.

It is also used in make-up products (mascara, kohl, eyeshadow) as well as in the colouring of soaps, particularly in cold-process soap-making, to impart an intense black hue or create contrasting visual effects.

In cosmetics, activated plant-based charcoal is a versatile solution for skincare and oral hygiene:

• Adsorption capacity and ‘detox’ action: Thanks to its microporous structure and exceptional exchange surface area, it possesses a high adsorption capacity. This enables it to capture and retain compounds and pollutants present on the skin’s surface

• Purifying care: It is used to cleanse the skin or teeth by attracting impurities. This property explains its frequent use in face masks, soaps and toothpastes to promote clear, healthy skin

• Intense plant-based colourant: Beyond its technical properties, it acts as a natural black pigment. Highly effective even in small doses, it brings a unique visual and sensory dimension to cosmetic formulations.

Aroma-Zone plant-based activated charcoal is found in two must-have products: 

Active ingredient: Activated plant-based charcoal

Activated plant-based charcoal has been known since ancient times for its extraordinary adsorption capacity, which gives it particularly valuable purifying and detoxifying properties. In cosmetics, it is used as an active ingredient in face masks, soaps, cleansers and exfoliants to remove impurities and pollutants. It is also an intense black colourant of 100% plant origin, ideal for creating beautiful marbled effects in your ‘homemade’ soaps, but also worth trying in your make-up products... A very powerful active ingredient due to its exceptional specific surface area, it should be used in small doses, particularly as it is highly pigmented. It is an active ingredient to be incorporated into your homemade formulations; it must not be used on its own. 

Organic plant-based activated charcoal from France – 120 capsules – Food supplement

An essential ally for a flat tummy, our 100% French plant-based activated charcoal effectively absorbs intestinal gas thanks to its high microporosity. Certified organic and eco-friendly, it comes from sustainably managed chestnut forests and is activated without any chemical agents, naturally enhancing your digestive comfort. Thanks to this ally for digestive comfort, rediscover a feeling of lightness and well-being after every meal.

Due to its high adsorption capacity, activated plant-based charcoal can capture various organic compounds and active substances. To minimise interactions, it is advisable to leave a gap between taking this product and any other products. It is also essential to always refer to the product’s technical data sheet to strictly follow the instructions for use and specific precautions. Finally, its use as an intense black colouring agent may cause stains on textiles or utensils when handled.

Delphine Duc is a biological engineer specialising in cosmetology. Passionate about cosmetics for almost ten years, she began making her own skincare products with Aroma-Zone ingredients to address her skin concerns. She then trained as a cosmetologist before creating her own bespoke cosmetics brand to address each person’s individual skin concerns.