Beauty

fade to black

why is this soap made of charcoal?

by faran krentcil

Charcoal is a great thing for your barbecue, but for your bath routine? Really? Apparently, it's making a comeback.

Charcoal was first used as a poison antidote and purifier in ancient Egypt, and later in Greece and Rome. Since then, it's been used to detoxify skin and improve discoloration - and now it's a soap.

Created by Sisters of the Moon, this black hunk of shower candy comes with bamboo-activated charcoal, plus sandalwood and coconut milk. It's $12, has a very healthy lather when wet, and looks like a giant brick from Mordor - just in case you're into that kind of thing...

--FARAN KRENTCIL

Sisters of the Moon Charcoal Soap, $12 at Urban Outfitters