This £6 vegan soap is clearing people's acne and the transformations are incredible

From Cosmopolitan

Acne is the modern skin malaise du jour. A 2018 review of studies in the journal Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology reported a significant increase in adults dealing with the skin condition, with possible explanations including stress, pollution and hormone-based birth control.

But away from hardcore treatments and sessions with a specialist, some people who deal with the skin condition are touting the benefits of a £6, vegan, charcoal-based soap, that's available in Waitrose, as well as at Boots.

Created by skincare brand Carbon Theory, the Charcoal & Tea Tree Oil Breakout Control Cleansing Bar is formulated with soothing shea butter, as well as the aforementioned ingredients.

Before and after shots of acne sufferers who have seen results using the bars have been doing the social rounds since the products landed in the high street pharmacy in 2018. But, since hitting the fancy supermarket's shelves just before the new year, they've spiked even more.

The brand advises wetting the bar, rubbing in between your hands and then massaging the suds into your face morning and night, daily. The bar comes in a resealable plastic pouch, so you can take it to spin, on a weekend away or whatever, without it getting all sticky and gross.

In terms of how long it looks like it takes to see results, the evangelists on Instagram are preaching anywhere from two to six months.

No doubt, some of the transformations look to be pretty remarkable.

Carbon theory charcoal soap: the transformations

Carbon theory charcoal soap: the expert opinion

'Tea tree is well known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, so it makes sense that this is a popular ingredient in many natural skincare products,' says aesthetic doctor Dr David Jack.

'Likewise, shea butter is moisturising. But, it is a fatty acid and primarily acts as an emollient in the skin – so I’m not convinced of its relevance in a product being marketed for acne.'

'Charcoal has zero significant clinical evidence for its use in acne. Indeed, all charcoal is is carbon, which is basically inert, and, if anything, could potentially clog pores.'

Whilst the transformations are impressive, it's important to remember that what works for one person's dermis may not be effective on another's. Plus, a single magic bullet to sort out acne woes is unlikely. But if a solution that's under a tenner is working for some people?

Well, all power to them.

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