When it comes to skin care, using clay is about as true to nature you can get. With a slightly grainy texture for exfoliation and nutrients to nourish the skin, clay makes a great ingredient for skin care. Perhaps most importantly, clay is famous for its ability to draw dirt, oils and toxins out of the skin, resulting in deeply cleansed and softened skin.
Give yourself a clay mask now and then — once or twice a week is a good routine. It's a relaxing, enjoyable ritual that results in cleaner, softer, lovelier skin!
How to make and use a clay mask
1. Cleanse
Wash your face with warm water and soap or a gentle cleanser. This gives the mask a clean start, allowing for better penetration. If you like, you can even begin with an herbal steam facial, to really cleanse and open your pores. Pat dry. Also consider trying other liquid ingredients, such as milk, yogurt, honey, juices or egg whites in place of the water in the mask. Or try an herbal infusion — calendula to soften and smooth, lavender to cleanse and inspire relaxation, peppermint to cool and refresh, etc.
2. Make the mask
Put about a tablespoon or two of clay in a bowl. Add enough water to make a paste. The mixture should be just thick enough to spread. If you make it too thick, it won't dry on your skin. Too thin, and it'll run off.
3. Apply the mask
Apply the paste with your fingertips, covering all of the skin except the skin around your eyes.
4. Let sit
Allow the paste to dry. This is a good time to lie down and relax! Depending on how thick the mixture is, this can take 10 to 30 minutes.
5. Rinse
Rinse the clay off with warm water. Use a wet washcloth to finish up, if needed. Follow with a rinse of cool water. If you like, finish with a toner and/or moisturizer.
How to choose a clay that's right for you
For best results, it's important to use quality clays. Quality clays are pure (free of contamination, with no coloring or other additives) and they're processed in a way that maintains their mineral content. There are a variety of clays, each with its own special strength. Here are some options:
French Green Clay Powder
With its high mineral and nutrient content and micro molecules (which enhance absorption), French green clay powder is often used in skincare treatments such as facial masks and body packs at spas. Because it's very absorbent, it's especially good for oily skin. This clay tones, stimulates, and cleanses the pores.
French Red Clay Powder
Similar to French green clay powder but richer in iron oxide (hence the color), French red clay powder is best for normal to oily or combination skin. Red clay softens and tones. Sensitive or mature skins also benefit from the ability of red clay to refresh the skin.
Kaolin Clay Powder
A very mild clay, Kaolin or China clay powder (yes, it's the main component of china dishes) gently cleanses and exfoliates without drawing oil, making it perfect for sensitive skin types. At the same time, its astringent effect is suitable for normal to oily skin. In addition to clay masks, the fine, fluffy powder is used in body powders and deodorants, soap products, and body packs.