Clay masks: you have probably heard of them. People have probably told you to wear some before your wedding day, or before your birthday celebration. But why?
Aside from being popular, clay masks help cleans, smoothen, and brighten not only your skin, but your hair as well! They are usually used by people with oily or acne-prone skin, as they remove excess oil or sebum on the face.
But this is just the surface level of what a clay mask can provide you. In this article, we will discuss clay masks: its different types and benefits.
What is a clay mask?
A clay mask is derived from a clay that is believed to remove excess sebum and bacteria, leaving the skin smoother and clearer than before. Clay masks are usually targeted to help those who have oily and acne-prone skin with their skin concerns.
Clays used in clay masks usually have negative PH to counter the skin’s slightly positive pH.
The different types of clay masks
There are various types of clay masks, each of which has its own mineral ingredients and benefits:
Kaolin clay – Also known as china clay, this clay mask is gentle on skin, making it perfect for those who have sensitive skin type. If you are looking out for a milder option that provides slight exfoliation properties, then Kaolin clay may be the right one for you. It can also help brighten skin and promote blood circulation.
Bentonite clay – One of the most popular clay masks in the beauty industry. It has been met with worldwide applause due to its absorbing power. It’s a swelling clay that turns muddy when mixed with water. Best for oily skin, once applied to the skin, it tightens the skin.
Rhassoul clay – This type of clay mask is enriched with minerals and high levels of absorption properties. If you deal with oily skin and blackheads, you may want to try this clay mask.
French green clay – A green-colored clay mask that is widely known for its exfoliating properties and ability to remove gunk and impurities from the skin. Like Kaolin clay, it is believed to help improve blood circulation.
Fuller’s earth clay – Known to be the most powerful absorbing clay, it strongly and sometimes harshly removes impurities, dirt, and excess oil from your pores. Due to its strong exfoliating powers, it should not be used for more than once a week. It leaves a slight bleaching effect on the skin. Only use it with your dermatologist’s advice and guidance.
The benefits of clay masks
This topic still requires further study, but here are some of the proven scientifically-proven benefits to date:
Helps improve facial complexion
Acne is usually triggered by excess oil and bacteria clogging your pores. Using a clay mask helps open up your pores and absorb excess sebum and acne-causing bacteria to prevent the development of acne and blackheads. Using a clay mask also helps absorb dead skin cells, making your skin appear smoother and clearer. Another benefit is that it also helps increase the collagen amount in your skin, leaving it more supple than ever.
Helps relieve several skin conditions
Aside from its beauty benefits, did you know that clay masks help provide relief for several skin problems? Professionals have suggested that clay masks could help promote blood circulation that happens in our system. Bringing more blood flow could help improve wound healing and eliminate some symptoms of sensitive skin. Another study has also suggested that clay masks can help prevent or manage skin dermatitis. But should you have any concerns regarding its effects, you should consult your dermatologist.
Clay mask for hair
As mentioned before, clay masks are also used for hair treatments for oily hair and scalp! It also helps absorb excess sebum that causes oily scalp and dandruff.
To use a clay hair mask, spread an ample amount of the mask, enough to cover your scalp to the ends of your hair. Wait for 5-10 minutes before rinsing with tap or warm water. If you are concerned about the irritation it may cause, do a patch test first. Because the mask absorbs impurities, you do not need to shampoo after using your clay hair mask.
Do it only once a week. If you have sensitive scalp, do not use it.