Charcoal Powder, USP

Brooks J K, et al. The Journal of the American Dental Association, 2017, 148(9), 661-670.

Charcoal-based toothpastes and tooth powders have come onto the scene, often touted as having whitening, remineralizing, antibacterial and antifungal properties. This work reviews the efficacy and safety of charcoal-based toothpastes. Through literature search, 118 potentially eligible articles were identified, and the relevant conclusions are as follows:
· Thirteen studies examined the effects of brushing teeth with raw charcoal or soot; however, none of these studies met the criteria for inclusion.
· Two suggested a general reduction in cavities, three reported negative outcomes (such as increased cavities and enamel abrasion), and one study found no adverse effects on oral hygiene from brushing with raw charcoal. Additionally, seven studies focused solely on the use of charcoal for oral health.
· Online advertisements made unproven claims about the therapeutic benefits of charcoal-based products, including antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and oral detoxification properties, which could be misleading. A third of the charcoal toothpastes contained bentonite clay, and one included betel leaves.
· Overall, the literature review revealed a lack of conclusive clinical and laboratory evidence supporting the safety and effectiveness of charcoal and charcoal-based toothpastes.

Atmanto D, et al. AIP Conference Proceedings. 2021, 2331(1), 040027.

The application and process mechanism of activated charcoal in the production of whitening cream were explored. The active charcoal ingredients are obtained through two processes, the combustion process of carbonization and the chemical process of activating the charcoal. The results show that the prepared activated charcoal whitening cream is non-irritating, has a pH value between 5.0 and 5.5, is stable for 2 days when stored, is non-irritating to hand skin, and can brighten hand skin.
Preparation procedure of activated charcoal whitening cream
· The ingredients are weighed according to formulas. The oil phase commences by blending stearic acid and cetyl alcohol sequentially in a vaporizer cup over a water bath until it reaches 70°C, and then stirring continuously until completely amalgamated. The temperature is then lowered to 65°C, followed by the gradual addition of triethanolamine and distilled water while stirring until homogenous. It is then cooled to a temperature of 30-35°C.
· This phase involves the dissolution of glycerin and distilled water in separate containers, which are then heated to 80°C. The mixtures are then combined and cooled to 35°C.
· The oil phase cream is merged with the water phase cream while using a homogenizer and then methyl paraben is incorporated until a consistent base cream is achieved. Subsequently, the extract is blended with the cream base. Following the addition of distilled water, the cold cream is transferred into a cream container.