Exciting news, boscia fans! The California based brand with Japanese roots delivers some amazing charcoal formulas for the face *and* body this time around. Expanding on the black range that consists of some of my most worshipped staples, the latest launch includes Charcoal Deep-Pore Exfoliating Peel Gel, Porefecting White Charcoal Mattifying Primer and Charcoal Deodorant. Trifecta game strong.
Charcoal: what is it and who is it for?
While it does sound a bit dirty, this impressive ingredient is actually the secret behind clear and glowing skin. With an uncanny ability to absorb 1,000 times its weight in impurities, it detoxifies, exfoliates and refines the skin. Perfect for anyone struggling with unwanted shine issues, it reduces excessive oiliness and minimizes growth of harmful bacteria. Did I mention it’s not drying? Like, at all. #STAAAAAAHP!
Charcoal Deep-Pore Exfoliating Peel Gel
If you’re thinking that boscia already offers a Peel Gel, you’re right. And it’s a fantastic option for all skin types. The new addition, however, is a tad more specific a solution for those with oily, congested skin or those prone to blackheads. Fueled by Activated Charcoal, Volcanic Sand, Glycolic Acid and various plant extracts, this multi-tasking exfoliant is a step up from the original.
Black’ish in hue and very much a gel in consistency, it is to be applied to dry skin. Triggered by the body’s temperature, it liquifies upon contact with the skin’s surface as you massage it over your face. Gentle and non-abrasive (the lava particles are not harsh at all!), it catches any dead cells and reveals a fresh layer ready to receive a deeper Alpha Hydroxy treatment. Rinse it off and you will immediately experience unparalleled softness. $34 (150ml)
Porefecting White Charcoal Mattifying Primer
Enlarged pores? Midday shine situation? This is so me. As a non-really-but-semi makeup wearer, I absolutely cannot do a proper silicone based primer. Full disclosure: I tolerate silicones in skincare just fine but a traditional primer has felt like an unbreathable spackle every time I have tried one. And, I have tried plenty. This one feels weightless and cooling. *fans self*
What’s in it? Binchotan White Charcoal Powder, Silica, Squalane, Cucumber, Witch Hazel Extracts and Geranium Oil to name a few. Always present, the proprietary blend of Jojoba Leaf and Wilowherb is the anti-aging signature in every boscia formula. So much more than a primer, this mattifying skincare treatment firms and brightens while visibly blurring the pore size. The result? A smoother appearance and lasting makeup application. During winter weather, my combination skin craves a bit more moisture but this will no doubt be a constant go-to after warmer temperatures return. Major props. $38 (40ml)
Charcoal Deodorant
Never have I been this excited about a deodorant. This talc-free formula is so fine, the pump nozzle dispenses a mist thT resembles smoke. Of course, I had to unscrew the top and peek inside – sure enough, the powder is finer than loose mineral foundation. More importantly, does it work? Absolutely. As a guy, I’ve worked it into my daily grooming routine for the last week and it’s a winner.
What makes it so great? Studded with moisture and odor absorbing Charcoal Powder as well as Binchotan White Charcoal Powder, it also features Lavender, Sage and Moringa extracts, which create that gender neutral, subtle herbal aroma. It may seem pricey at first, but trust me, this most travel friendly version will last a while. $20 (50g)
*press samples