To most people, charcoal is something you use on the grill, and perhaps to draw on canvas. But increasingly, charcoal has begun to play a role in many people's beauty routines. This compound has some unique properties that make it a healthy and wise choice for topical use, and in a few different ways.

Tooth Whitening

Conventional, over-the-counter tooth whitening treatments can be pretty harsh. They irritate some people's gums, and they can even cause tooth sensitivity, especially if you have thinning enamel. Charcoal teeth whitening is a good, safe alternative that will leave you with whiter teeth and fewer side effects. You can purchase activated charcoal formulated just for oral use. Brush your teeth with it once a day for about two weeks, and leave it to sit on your teeth for about 5 minutes after you finish brushing. The abrasive nature of the charcoal will help scrub stains off your teeth. Then, as the charcoal continues to sit, it will absorb and kill bacteria on your teeth, preventing them from forming additional plaque and stains.

Face Mask

With all of the dirt and toxins in the air these days, your pores are sure to be clogged at the end of the day. And if you don't do a good job of cleaning them out now and then, you'll end up with breakouts and blemishes. A charcoal face mask can help draw out the toxins and dirt. Simply apply the face mask to your skin, and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Look closely at the dried mask, and you will see tiny dark spots over all of your pores. This is the grime them mask is pulling out. Rinse the mask away with clear water, and pat your face dry. Use the mask about once a week for best results.

Foot Scrub

Getting rid of calluses on the bottom of your feet requires a special balance of abrasion and gentleness. Charcoal offers the perfect solution. It has enough grit to scrub the calluses away, but it won't injure your skin. Just scoop up some of the activated charcoal, moisten it, and rub the bottoms of your feet. You can let the scrub sit on your feet for a few minutes for some extra detoxing if you want. Rinse your feet clean, and repeat the process again in a few weeks. 

With charcoal on your side, you will look and feel a lot better.