Over the past few years I have tried a lot of skin care products. Many I’ve given up because they were too expensive, too time-consuming, or didn’t fit my natural living philosophy. One product that I’ve stuck with is cosmetic clay. From what I’ve read, clay is about as natural as it gets and I really enjoy incorporating it into my skin care routine.
I initially got into clay masks because they’re supposed to be good for acne. In theory, at least, clay pulls toxins and impurities out of your skin, leaving a clearer, more vibrant complexion. I’ve never seen any obvious evidence that clay masks are doing this for my skin, but I keep doing them because I like the way they make my skin feel. Applying the mask makes my skin feel very refreshed and rejuvenated. I also like that masks only require a minor hands-on time commitment, as it doesn’t take more than a couple minutes to apply the mask and then wash it off once it’s dry.
Even if you don’t have acne-prone skin, consider giving clay masks a try. The special properties of clay probably offer potential benefits for all skin types. Oh, and putting on a clay mask is also a great way to surprise/terrify an unsuspecting family member. 🙂
Buying Your Clay
I chose to try green clay because it’s supposed to be especially good for acne. There are several other types of cosmetic clay, though, which may be better suited to your particular skin type, such as Kaolin clay, bentonite clay, or Fuller’s Earth clay.
How to Do a Clay Mask
I always like to preface a clay mask by first washing my face as usual. I’m not sure if this is strictly necessary but I like doing it.
After washing and drying your face, pour some powdered clay into your hand. I aim for about a half to a whole tablespoon.
Next, add a little bit of water and start mixing it into the clay in your hand.
Add more water gradually, continuing to mix, until you have a wet paste.
Apply the clay to your face using your fingers. Cover as much of your face as you can without the risk of getting any into your mouth or eyes.
Allow the mask to dry on your face. This usually takes somewhere between ten and twenty minutes. Your skin will start to feel tight as the mask dries. It will be difficult to move your mouth or any other part of your face, so don’t plan on eating anything or talking on the phone while you do your mask. 🙂
After the mask is dry, rinse it off with warm water. It will take a little bit of attention to thoroughly remove all of the stuck bits.
My face usually looks red and blotchy after I rinse off the mask. As far as I can tell, this doesn’t seem to be harmful; it fades within an hour or two and doesn’t leave any lasting effects. I just thought I should warn you in case you experience the same.
After I rinse off the mask, I always moisturize as my skin usually feels on the dry side.
That’s it! Super simple and really pampering for your skin. Let me know if you give it a try!
Have you ever tried a clay mask? What did you think?
STANDARD FTC DISCLOSURE: In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog. Please note, I only ever endorse products that are in alignment with Whole Natural Life’s ideals and I believe would be of value to my readers. Please also note that Whole Natural Life is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.
6 Responses to How to Do a Clay Mask