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What’s so great about carbonated face wash? Why it works for dirty pores, swelling, and dullness, and 8 recommendations

What's so great about carbonated face wash? Why it works for dirty pores, swelling, and dullness, and 8 recommendations

The area around the pores does not look clear. Face looks swollen. The skin tone is heavy. Are you trying to solve these problems with lotions and serums alone? What you need to rethink may be the first step, washing your face. Carbonic acid face wash not only lifts sebum and dead skin cells with its fine bubbles, but also helps to reduce puffiness and dark circles by stimulating blood circulation with carbonic acid. This article explains the mechanism and merits of carbonic acid face washes, as well as the three types. Finally, we will introduce eight recommended products along with a review of actual use by a member of the editorial staff.

What is a carbonic acid facial cleanser?Carbonic Acid Facial Cleanser

The term “carbonated face wash” is a generic term for facial cleansers that incorporate a mechanism to generate carbon dioxide or carbon dioxide gas. In addition to making it easier to wash off sebum and dead skin cells, carbonated cleansers are designed to promote blood circulation and support ingredient penetration into the stratum corneum, which is at the heart of carbonated beauty.

Advantages of Carbonated Face Wash 1Carbonic acid bubbles float away sebum and dead skin cells

The ability to float away sebum and dead skin cells is one of the advantages of a carbonated face wash. The fine bubbles containing carbon dioxide gas, or bubbles generated on the skin, penetrate into uneven skin texture, around pores, and between the skin and dirt, enveloping sebum and dead skin cells and washing them away. Furthermore, it is important to note that carbonated facial cleansers can be designed without relying on the strength of the cleansing ingredients. Although surfactants are essential to remove dirt and grime from general facial cleansers, they can cause tightness and dryness. Carbonic acid facial cleansers use microscopic bubbles to support cleansing, and depending on the formulation, can reduce the risk of dryness compared to general facial cleansers.

Advantages of Carbonic Acid Facial Cleanser 2Carbonic Acid Facial Cleanser Promotes Blood Flow and Eliminates Swelling and Dullness

The ability to promote blood circulation, which is at the heart of carbonated beauty, is a major advantage, and not limited to carbonic acid facial cleansers. When carbon dioxide gas comes in contact with the skin, the carbon dioxide taken in through the skin helps to expand the blood vessels in the area, stimulating blood flow and reducing swelling. In addition, as the concentration of carbon dioxide in the blood increases, red blood cells are more likely to give up oxygen, making it easier for oxygen to be supplied to skin cells. When oxygen is available to the skin, dullness is eliminated and the skin looks more blood-colored. Furthermore, since blood flow is related to the skin’s metabolic rhythm, it also helps to create a skin environment in which turnover is less likely to be disrupted.

Advantages of carbonated face wash 3Fine carbonated bubbles support the penetration of moisturizing and beauty ingredients

Another advantage of carbonated face wash is that moisturizing and beauty ingredients are easily absorbed into the stratum corneum. The carbonic acid bubbles are fine and penetrate into the skin’s uneven surface and the crevices of the stratum corneum, allowing the moisturizing and beautifying ingredients contained in the cleanser to be delivered to the stratum corneum. This helps to improve the skin’s moisture, barrier function, and smoothness.

Types of carbonated face washesThree main types: two foam types and a powder type!

Carbonated face washes can be divided into three main types depending on how the carbonation is incorporated. One is a foam type that uses carbon dioxide alone, another is a foam type that combines carbon dioxide with LPG or other injectants, and the third is a powder type that uses sodium bicarbonate or organic acid to create bubbles. Each type produces bubbles in different ways and is easy to use, so it is important to choose the type that best suits your purpose. The big advantage of the carbon dioxide-only foam type and the carbon dioxide + LPG foam type is that both can be used without the need for foaming. Since there is no need to foam by hand, they are easy to use even on busy mornings and avoid friction when washing the face. Also, look at the ingredients label to see the difference between the foam type and the LPG type. If you check whether it says only ” CO2 ” or both ” CO2 ” and ” LPG “, you will be able to see the design of the product.

Type How to read the ingredient label Basic Characteristics
Carbon dioxide-only foam type Carbon dioxide Highly concentrated carbonated foam with carbonic acid as the main ingredient.
Carbon dioxide + LPG bubble type Carbon dioxide and LPG In addition to the carbonation element, the foam output and volume are adjusted by the blowing agent (LPG).
Powder type Sodium hydrogen carbonate, sodium carbonate, organic acid, etc. Carbon dioxide gas is generated by adding water.

”Types”Carbon

The carbon dioxide-only foam type is recommended for those who value the unique benefits of carbonic acid, such as its ability to stimulate blood circulation and support ingredient penetration into the stratum corneum. This one is filled with carbon dioxide dissolved in the moisture in the container. When used, the liquid containing carbon dioxide gas comes out as bubbles, so the aforementioned unique benefits of carbonated beauty products can be expected to be greatly appreciated. On the ingredient label, you should check to see if “carbon dioxide” is listed instead of “LPG,” which is used as an injection material.

”Types”Carbon

The carbon dioxide + LPG foam type is an option if you value ease of use, such as stable, dense foam, while incorporating the benefits of carbonation. In addition to carbon dioxide, this one contains LPG, an injection agent that pushes the contents as foam. Both carbon dioxide and LPG are gases, but they play different roles. Carbon dioxide is the gas that plays the main role in carbonated beauty products, while LPG is the propellant used to push out the foam in a stable manner. Since there is a limit to the type and amount of gas that can be filled into a container, as well as the internal pressure, the purity and content ratio of carbon dioxide gas may be lower when LPG is used in combination with carbon dioxide compared to the carbon dioxide-only foam type. On the ingredient label, you want to make sure that “LPG” is listed along with “carbon dioxide.”

”Types”Powder

The powder type generates carbon dioxide gas the moment water is added, rather than using the finished foam as-is like the foam type. It is basically a combination of carbonates such as sodium bicarbonate and sodium carbonate, and organic acids such as citric acid and malic acid. The foaming process approaches sebum stains and dead skin cells, enabling intensive care of dirt and roughness around pores. While the foaming type is easy to use daily, excessive use of the powder type can cause dryness and irritation. For this reason, many products are designed for special care several times a week. In addition to ” sodium bicarbonate ” and ” sodium carbonate “, check the ingredient label to see if acidic ingredients such as ” citric acid ” and ” malic acid ” are listed.

Breaking down the doubts!Q&A about carbonated face wash

Q1. Can I use a carbonated face wash every day?A: Basically, it can be used every day, but it is best to adapt to your skin condition and product design.

Since carbonated face washes are a type of facial cleanser, many products are designed for daily use. In particular, products that come out in a foam form are easy to incorporate into morning and evening facial cleansing, and most are designed for daily use. Of course, if you want to cleanse your face of sebum and dead skin cells, replacing your daily face wash with a carbonated face wash is also an option. However, some powder-type products and products that focus on keratin care with enzymes, clay, AHA, and other ingredients are designed for special care several times a week. Also, if you experience tightness, dryness, redness, or burning after washing your face, it is a sign to reduce the frequency of use. Adjustment should be made based on the product’s usage guidelines and your skin’s reaction to the product.

Q2. Can sensitive skin use carbonated face wash?A: Some products can be used, but the carbonation and ingredients may be irritating.

There is no need to generally avoid carbonated face washes because of sensitive skin. Some products are easier to use if they are designed with hypoallergenic or moisturizing ingredients. What you want to look at when choosing is the factors that could cause irritation. In some cases, the irritating sensation of carbonation itself may not be suitable, while in other cases, the non-carbonated ingredients in the face wash may not be suitable for the skin. If you are using the product for the first time, try it a few times a week first, rather than suddenly using it every day. If you experience burning, redness, itching, or a strong tightness, you should avoid using the product.

Q3. Should I use the carbonated face wash in the morning or at night?A: I want to use it both morning and night. If you want to use it differently, think in terms of purpose.

It does not matter whether you use the carbonated face wash in the morning or at night. In the morning, the carbonic acid will quickly reduce swelling by stimulating blood circulation while removing sebum and sweat from the skin while you sleep. At night, the carbonated bubbles penetrate into the skin’s bumps and around pores to lift off sebum, sweat, and sunscreen that may have adhered to the skin during the day, so it works well as an end-of-the-day face wash. If you choose to use different products, please consider according to your skin condition and purpose at the time.

Q4. Does carbonated face wash have anti-aging effects?A: Effective, but only in preventing wrinkles and sagging.

Carbonic acid face wash can also be expected to have anti-aging effects. Carbonic acid stimulates blood circulation, which is effective in reducing facial puffiness and dullness and making the complexion appear brighter. In addition, the stimulation of blood flow allows oxygen and nutrients to reach the skin more easily, which helps to regulate turnover. In addition, the carbonated bubbles remove sebum and dead skin cells, making it easier for moisturizing and toning ingredients to reach the stratum corneum, which helps prevent fine lines and wrinkles and rough skin caused by dryness. On the other hand, it is not expected to be effective enough to improve existing wrinkles and sagging skin due to aging. It should be considered as a facial cleanser to prevent the daily accumulation of factors that make one look older.

Q5. Should I check ingredients other than carbonation?A: Always check. The ingredients other than carbonation can make a big difference in how well it washes your face.

When choosing a carbonated face wash, you want to make sure to check not only the carbonation but also the ingredients. Carbonic acid is an important element in promoting blood circulation, cleansing, and supporting ingredient penetration into the stratum corneum, but the actual washing results are determined by the balance of cleansing, moisturizing, and skin-conditioning ingredients. If you are concerned about sebum and roughness, a type containing enzymes, clay, charcoal, etc. would be an option. On the other hand, if you want to avoid dryness and tightness, check for moisturizing ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramide, and amino acid-based ingredients. In addition, exfoliating ingredients such as AHA and BHA, and cooling ingredients such as menthol may cause irritation depending on the skin condition.

Introduced with reviews by members of the editorial staff!8 Recommended Carbonated Face Cleansers

We picked up recommended carbonated face washes for each of the three types mentioned above. Some of the items were purchased at @cosme TOKYO by OTOKOMAE editorial staff members and actually used. In addition to the features of the products, we will also introduce the editorial department’s review of the products. First, let’s start with the carbon dioxide-only foam type.

Recommended carbonated face wash 1SOFINA iP Micro Foam Serum Facial Cleanser

SOFINA iP’s Micro Foam Serum Facial Cleanser, developed by Kao, is characterized by its design that focuses on moisturizing in addition to cleaning. Micro carbonated bubbles, smaller than pores, support cleansing. It contains moisturizing ingredients such as kerato-MF complex component β, which moisturizes even the stratum corneum cells and brings out a bright, translucent complexion.

Editor Irie
Compared to the type that uses LPG, the foam was not as dense. However, the sensation of carbonic acid bouncing on my face when I washed my face was by far the best feeling I experienced with this product. My own skin tends to dry out easily, and I often feel tight and dry after using some cleansers, but not at all with this product. I would recommend this product to many people.

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Recommended Carbonated Face Wash 2

fromCO2 is a pioneering brand of highly concentrated carbonated skin care that has been researching and developing carbonated beauty since 1997. This product is a highly concentrated carbonated formula that claims a carbon dioxide concentration of over 5000ppm. The product also contains highly biodegradable pure soap and decyl glucoside, a vegetable-derived organic grade cleaning agent. The product is also a face wash, pore pack, and natural makeup remover. In addition to daily use, the product can also be used once a week as a special care product by applying carbonated bubbles to areas of concern for pores for about one minute.

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Recommended Carbonated Face Wash 3

est’s product features a smooth, thick lather. The recommended usage is to apply the facial cleanser, massage the face, and then pack it for one minute. The product also contains ” Moist Purify ingredients “, a complex of moisturizing ingredients that remove dirt while protecting moisture.

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Here is a list of carbon dioxide + LPG foam type products!

Recommended Carbonated Face Wash 4

RAFRA’s “Marshmallow Orange” features an elastic foam that does not go flat and an additive-free formula with eight additives that are gentle on the skin. The product does not use any artificial fragrance, and the natural scent of orange essential oil can be enjoyed. The product also contains mandarin orange peel extract. Citrus-derived ingredients are believed to have carbonation-like effects. The product also contains glycolic acid, sodium hyaluronate, water-soluble collagen, and honey, so it is recommended for those who want to approach dirt and roughness around pores while also focusing on smoothness after washing.

Editor Irie
I actually used a total of four products this time, and this one was the best in terms of foam durability and elasticity. The orange scent wafting through the air while washing my face was very pleasant.

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Recommended 5 carbonated face washes

SHIRORU’s “Crystal Whip” has been redesigned to produce a finer, denser, more stable lather. In addition to collagen, hyaluronic acid, glycyrrhizic acid, and other skin conditioning and moisturizing ingredients, the product contains 16 plant-derived extracts that are effective in moisturizing, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, preventing rough skin, and promoting turnover.

Editor Irie
The feeling of cleanliness after cleansing is quite high, so I found it reliable on days when sebum and stickiness are a concern. It seems to be more comfortable to use if you moisturize as soon as possible after use.

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Recommended Carbonated Face Wash 6

ENGRACE is a brand whose origins lie in solid soap made with a process that has remained unchanged for 20 years. ENGRACE is developing “Luminous Foam” as an item that can be used to wash the face in a short amount of time. The product features a glutathione booster in addition to carbonic acid. Glutathione booster is an ingredient that supports the function of glutathione, a component of the body and skin, and promotes its production or enhances its effect. Its high antioxidant effect leads to clear skin without blemishes and dullness, known as “white ball skin.

Editor Irie
The bubbles came out looking like whipped cream. Among the carbon dioxide + LPG type products we actually used, this product caused the least feeling of tightness and dryness after cleansing. I think it is easy to use even for those with dry skin.

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Here are some powder type products!

Recommended Carbonated Face Wash 7

BARTH’s “Neutral Bicarbonate Face Wash Powder” is a powder-type face wash containing sodium bicarbonate, citric acid and sodium carbonate. By adding water to the fine powder, it transforms into a milky smooth texture that adheres to the skin instead of foaming. 1 minute of massaging will stimulate blood circulation, while sea mud and natural coral powder absorb dead skin cells and dirt. In addition, sodium hyaluronate and hydrolyzed collagen are included in the formula to provide a moisturized feeling after washing, despite being a powder type. This product is recommended for those who want a non-sticky wash while intensively treating sebum and roughness.

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Recommended carbonated face wash 8

suisai beauty clear’s “Peeling Powder Wash” is a powder-type face wash that combines baking soda and citric acid. It is a powder-type face wash that combines baking soda and citric acid. When exposed to water, the baking soda and citric acid react to generate micro carbonic acid bubbles that are smaller than pores. It is designed to tackle persistent keratin plugs, blackhead stains in pores, and dead skin cells on the surface of the skin, leading to smooth skin that is free from roughness. It also contains wheat seed extract, hydrolyzed silk, and sodium hyaluronate as moisturizing ingredients, and is fragrance- and colorant-free. This product is recommended for those who want the exfoliation care experience typical of powder-type products and for those who want intensive care for dirt around pores.

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