If there’s one word that’s on everyone’s lips at the start of a new year, it’s “detox.”  From our diets to our closets, it seems people everywhere can’t get enough of a fresh start.  So it’s no wonder that Boscia just released their new Boscia Detoxifying Black Cleanser ($28.00).  It’s definitely a potent one, with what I estimate to be approximately 1% glycolic acid and charcoal extract.  Here’s why I recommend it primarily for oily and acne-prone skin:

Charcoal

For hundreds of years, charcoal has been used in holistic medicine as a deodorant.  This is due to charcoal’s high oxygen content and absorptive properties:  When charcoal comes into contact with decomposing matter, it releases oxygen and absorbs malodorous gases within the air.   In dermatology, topically applied charcoal is known to draw out impurities from the skin.  Limited research in the journal Dermatology also suggests that charcoal may be useful in the treatment of certain skin diseases, including porphyria.  The charcoal powder in Boscia Detoxifying Black Cleanser gives the formulation its characteristic “black” hue, as well as in absorbing excess oil.  Unfortunately, charcoal can also be drying to normal-to-dry skin types.

Glycolic acid

Glycolic acid works by advancing desquamation and exfoliation of the top layer of the skin. As a result, glycolic acid quickens the rate of cell turnover, decreases small wrinkles and increase fibroblast proliferation of collagen. It does not specifically inhibit melanin production, but many dermatologists report the appearance of sunspots is improved with continual use.  In the concentration it is found in Boscia Detoxifying Black Cleanser, glycolic acid is less likely to be irritating, and more likely to appear to cleanse the pores than reduce fine lines and wrinkles over time.

How to Use

For best results with any cleanser, rub the cleanser into the skin for a full minute.  With Boscia Detoxifying Black Cleanser, this will enable the charcoal to absorb oil within the skin more effectively, as well as to allow glycolic acid some time to work before rinsing with water.

Bottom Line

I love Boscia Detoxifying Black Cleanser, but primarily for oily and acne-prone skin.  For best results, use for a full minute before rinsing!

Product Rating:  9/9

• High or optimized concentration of proven ingredients: 3/3
• Unique formulation or new technology:  3/3
• Value:  3/3
• Sunscreen:  N/A

Ingredients in Boscia Detoxifying Black Cleanser

Glycereth-26, Glycerin, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Polysorbate 20, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Leaf Extract, Epilobium Angustifolium Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Cynara Scolymus (Artichoke) Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Alpha Glucosyl Hesperidin, Glycolic Acid, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Ceteth-25, Oleth-10, Butylene Glycol, Citrus Paradisi Seed Extract, Xanthan Gum, Water, Charcoal Powder, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil.