We live in an era of social media where influencers have become uncertified experts. From strange food recipes to bizarre hacks, we witness life-changing solutions every day. However, when it comes to health and skin, it becomes important to be extra cautious and think twice before trying any online hack.
A recent Instagram post by user Manpreet Kaur has generated curiosity and scepticism in the era of viral skincare hacks. Kaur suggested using regular coal, or koyla, as a do-it-yourself substitute for the commercial charcoal mask. Her advised technique included gathering coal from a washerman, powdering it, adding lemon juice, letting it distribute, and then separating the mixture.
The user claimed that compared to store-bought charcoal masks, her homemade mixture was purer and more affordable. Kaur’s beauty hack has been decisively refuted by dermatologists. As per them, using koyla combined with lemon is not a safe combination for the skin.
If used, there is a high risk of irritation and dermatitis. Reports further suggest that market-available charcoal masks make use of activated charcoal is processed to remove impurities and toxins making it safe for the skin. A post shared by Manpreet kaur (@manpreetk0urr) Coal is a byproduct of bituminous coal, sometimes known as coal tar.
Patients with skin diseases like psoriasis or eczema are prescribed coal tar by dermatologists to help with redness, itching, and inflammation. However, these are medically processed forms such as .