One of the reasons activated charcoal is so popular in skincare products today is because of its absorption abilities. This jet-black powder has the power to bind to small, pesky materials that get under our pores and cause dirt and chemical buildup. The visible skin benefits of activated charcoal are: Exfoliation without stripping the face of natural oil. Deeply cleansing to pores. Soothing for acne. Removes blackheads. Relieves skin impurities. Detoxifying and purifying. Shrinks pores. Tightens the skin.