Stop! Are You Applying The Best Clay Mask For Your Skin?

Find out what new scientific research reveals…

Clay masks are undoubtedly ones of the biggest skincare trends in 2020, and home isolation has certainly increased the numbers of stay-at-home face mask pampering. But do they actually work? Find out more about this ancient tradition…

Why clay masks are one of the biggest skincare trends in 2020

For most people, clay masks are the ultimate in luxury and self care, helping to hydrate, brighten and detoxify, leaving your skin radiating your natural beauty. For others with more sensitive, acne prone, or dry skin however, they can lead to questions like, “why am I having breakouts after using a clay mask?”,”why is my face stinging when I use a face mask?”, “why is my face so dried out after using a face mask?” These responsess beg the question, “are you using the best clay mask for your skin?” Let’s find out why it’s so important to choose the clay mask that suits your skin type so that you can rest assured that clay masks will find a way into your weekly skincare routine and give you the amazing results you are looking for…

What do clay masks actually do?

Clay masks help to detoxify the skin by drawing out impurities and oils from it’s surface. It is especially helpful to those people with acne or oily-prone skin, helping reduce excess shine, and increase hydration and oil absorption.

According to Alitura Naturals, clay possesses negatively charged molecules unlike most toxins, heavy metals and bacteria which have positively charged molecules. When applied to the skin, the two bind together and through the process of washing off the clay, you remove these toxins. Various therapeutic clays, especially bentonite clay can effectively bind to heavy metals like mercury, cadmium, lead, and benzene as well as other environmental pollutants and eliminate them from the body’s tissues. This isn’t however, the only way that clay works to improve the integrity of the skin. It is also rich in beautifying minerals including calcium, magnesium, silica, sodium, copper, iron and potassium. It’s detoxifying abilities, nutritive qualities, and microbial balancing properties give it many reasons to use for the skin.

What are the most important ingredients in a clay mask?

Skincare.com consultant Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali explained, that when choosing a clay mask, it's good to look for one specific ingredient, "Kaolin is an important ingredient to be on the lookout for." Also know as white clay, Kaolin is quite mild, and can help to draw out oils without being harsh on the skin.

Dr. Neal Schultz, NYC dermatologist, echoed these sentiments, "In terms of important ingredients, look for kaolin and/or bentonite as superior ingredients for these types of masks."

Dr. Lortscher, CEO and Founder of Curology added, "Bentonite and kaolin clay also draw out water and oil from your skin, which may temporarily make pores appear smaller."

What ingredients you should avoid and may cause skin irritation

Some people prefer to have their face masks already liquified rather than in a powder form for quick application onto their skin. The problem with liquid clay face masks is that the clay then needs heavy preservatives to maintain it’s shelf life which means your skin and body are absorbing them into your blood stream. And if you have sensitive skin they can cause all sorts of skin reactions including stinging, dryness and irritation (check if your clay masks have phenoxyethanol (or any other beauty and skincare ingredient for that matter). If you prefer to use the healthiest, natural types of clay masks that are less likely to cause skin irritation then choose clay masks in powder forms with 100% natural ingredients which do not need to include preservatives. If you find your skin is still super sensitive dry the gentler kaolin clay rather than bentonite which is better for oily and acne prone skin.

Should you choose a white, green, pink or red clay mask?

Benefits of white clay

White Clay is a great option for almost all skin types as it works to very gently draw dirt and build up out from underneath the surface of the skin and absorb any excess oil that may be clogging up the pores. Ideal for normal and mature skin, it also works as a mild exfoliant, refining the surface of the complexion without irritating it to reveal softened, purified and clarified skin, and may also reduce pore size!

Benefits of green clay

For oily, combination and acne-prone skin, Green Clay is ideal for restoring balance. Green Clay works overtime to soak up the excess oils that clog the pores and lead to acne and imperfections, plus it doubles as a powerful deep cleanser that helps to balance pH levels. One of my favourite qualities of Green Clay is that it stimulates cell regeneration to leave you with a seriously glowing complexion.

Benefits of pink clay

For dry and sensitive skin types, Pink Clay is an essential skin care ingredient if you want to reduce irritation and inflammation from aggravating skin conditions such as acne. Pink Clay is rich in Silica, which may help to improve skin elasticity and cell renewal for supple, younger looking skin. Gently exfoliating and light on the skin, Pink Clay leaves skin silky soft and smooth, can help to minimise blackheads and promotes a radiant and balanced complexion.

The  Australian Pink Clay Facial Mask is super-charged with native bush botanicals such as kakadu plum (contains up to 1000 times more vitamin c than oranges to brighten your skin), mangosteen (helps to diminish signs of ageing), aloe Vera (boosts cellular turnover and evens out your complexion), kelp (great for hydrating and plumping the skin and also contains anti-ageing properties), and white willow bark (helps reduce inflammation). This gentle pink clay mask contains 100% Australian kaolin and bentonite clay, delivering moisture and energy to tired, dull complexions and helps to soothe inflammation while lightly exfoliating skin. Rich in silica, this hydrating mask may help improve skin elasticity and cell renewal, leaving skin soft, smooth, refreshed and supple.

Benefits of red clay

Red clay is extremely high in iron and effective for a skin detox. Once applied to the skin, red clay binds impurities and dirt into its paste until dried. Its drawing abilities make it a great toner and cleanser for acne-prone, oily, and problem skin.

How do you maximise the impact?

A clay mask will have maximum impact when it's followed by your regular skincare routine, so remember to cleanse and hydrate with a serum or moisturiser after removing the clay. There are many kinds of clay available, which is why it’s important to find the mask that suits your skin type.

What skin type do you have and what type of clay masks have you tried and tested that work for you? Please leave comments below.

Table 1: Different Types of Clays, Their Benefits,

and Suitable Skin Types

Tips on how to apply a clay mask.