Ingredient
Activated Charcoal
An adsorbent used to bind and lift surface stain molecules.
How it works. Highly porous carbon binds pigments during brushing, then rinses away.
Advantages
- Removes some extrinsic staining
- Popular in natural formulations
Potential disadvantages
- Can be more abrasive than plain silica pastes
- No intrinsic whitening effect
- Messy in the sink
Common concentrations. Varies widely.
Safety. Use gentle pressure. Consider limiting to 2-3 times per week if used in a powder form.
Evidence strength. Limited