Clay face masks have cleansing and drying properties. Cosmetic clay in facial care is the best and most effective remedy.
Clay is truly one of nature's best gifts. It is universal in its properties and is used for the production of bricks, ceramics, porcelain, and waterproofing devices. However, clay has long been used for medicinal, cosmetic, and health purposes. This is a 100% natural substance that is not capable of causing harm. In cosmetology, it is most often used to create masks and all kinds of body wraps. What kind of clay is suitable for the face? As you know, there are several main types of it. Therefore, it is worth understanding the beneficial properties and scope of application of this or that product.
Types of clay for face and body. Their use and properties. Bentonite clay
This type is universal, suitable for all skin types, and an excellent cleanser. Bentonite has a high content of elements such as magnesium, calcium, iron, copper and others. Thanks to this rich composition, when clay swells in water, it is able to absorb impurities, toxins and various types of bacteria from the surface of the skin. Plus, it also has medicinal properties. For example, it is used for psoriasis, eczema, acne, and dermatitis. It removes blackheads, redness, and reduces the severity of allergic reactions. Thus, from all of the above, it is clear that bentonite clay is suitable for different types of facial skin (dry, oily or combination).
White clay
Its other name is kaolin. It is used not only in cosmetology, but also in dermatology. It has a cleansing and drying effect, which is extremely effective in caring for oily skin. It has a mattifying effect, treats and prevents acne. Due to its properties, white clay attracts, like a magnet, excess subcutaneous fat and sweat gland secretions, and removes impurities from the upper layer of the epidermis. It is recommended for use on very oily skin. In what cases is white clay used for the face? For acne that appears as a result of increased activity of the sebaceous glands, this is an excellent remedy.
Blue clay
Perhaps the most common and famous type of clay. I must say, absolutely deservedly so. After all, it is used for lotions, rubbing, and various procedures. It is even used to treat various diseases. Blue clay contains potassium, magnesium, nitrogen, and iron oxides. It contains all the minerals and trace elements necessary for the skin.
Cosmetologists recommend using it for anti-cellulite wraps. Blue tightens the skin, smoothes and reduces stagnant fat layers. The procedure with clay can be carried out even at home. But one session will not be enough; a course of ten wraps is required (every other day). Blue clay for the face is also suitable. Reviews about masks with this component are amazing, since it is impossible to meet a person who would not see a positive effect. The mask tightens the facial contour, removes signs of fatigue, gives the skin a healthy, fresh look and velvety texture.
Blue-white Cambrian clay
This type of mineral is difficult to access for ordinary residents, since it is most often mined in the mountains, which explains its purity and unique irreplaceable properties for both medicinal and cosmetic purposes. Blue-white clay acts as an absorbent and removes everything harmful from the body. Its huge advantage is that it suits everyone. And, perhaps, this proves that this is the best clay for the face, as it has universal properties: it tones, tightens the skin, removes excess fat and removes fluid that accumulates in the form of swelling and bruises under the eyes; accelerates the healing of abrasions and scratches; activates blood circulation in the capillaries, which gives the face a healthy color.
Green clay
This species is rich in minerals such as copper and iron oxide, which is why it is green in color. In addition, it contains a high content of calcium, phosphorus, cobalt, zinc, aluminum, molybdenum, selenium, manganese, silver and other microelements beneficial to the body. Thanks to this multi-component mineral composition, clay helps eliminate toxins, increase blood flow, overall tone of skin cells, and improve the functioning of the sebaceous glands. Has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. It also makes the skin soft and velvety. Due to its wide range of actions, it is most often used to create clay masks for the face. Reviews from people who have tried the effect of masks on themselves are encouraging, since 90% of users note the result after the first use.
Red clay
It owes its luxurious color to magnesium and aluminum, which are included in its chemical composition in the most optimal doses. It is better if this type of clay was mined in Morocco. Because Moroccan has a delicate soft consistency without solid inclusions. Red clay is known for its beneficial properties mainly in cosmetology. But it is also used in medicine. The red mass perfectly nourishes, moisturizes and cleanses the skin. People (both men and women) widely use clay face masks. Reviews about the red type, as well as about other types, are usually positive. This is probably why, despite its low prevalence, red clay is not inferior in effectiveness to other types of clay.
Yellow
Due to the content of many salts, chemical compounds, and microelements in this form, it is used in folk medicine and for the preparation of various cosmetic masks. This type of clay is famous for the presence of a large number of substances - absorbents that help remove toxins from the body. In addition, it contains minerals such as potassium, chromium, silicon, iron, manganese and others.
Yellow clay has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the heart and blood vessels, gastrointestinal tract, helps retain the required amount of moisture in cells and slows down the aging process. Among other things, the product has a preventive effect against obesity, joint diseases, diabetes, and strengthens the immune system. Yellow clay is widely used in cosmetology for the face. People leave positive reviews of masks with its addition. They also advise using yellow clay for dry, dehydrated and sensitive facial skin. This mask can even smooth out wrinkles and remove redness.
Pink clay
This type of clay is rich in calcium, potassium, aluminum, silicon, zinc, iron and other minerals beneficial to the skin. It can tighten the skin, restore facial contour, deeply moisturize and nourish. Therefore, it received the greatest success in cosmetology. Pink clay is used for dry and normal skin, gently removes impurities, gives the face a healthy appearance and velvety, removes signs of fatigue and redness during irritation. For example, it is used to create all kinds of masks for dry, flaky, chapped skin after frost.
Black clay
Another of the most common types of clay. It has a drying effect. Its use is quite widespread. But it is mainly used for oily and problematic skin, it effectively helps fight acne and pimples, removes impurities from the skin and tightens cleansed pores.
So, now that all types of clay have been sorted out, we need to summarize all of the above and find out how clay for the face is selected according to skin types. You just need not to make a mistake with your appearance.
Facial clay by skin type:
Masks containing: bentonite, blue, white-blue, green clay are suitable for everyone;
. for normal and sensitive people, the best option would be pink and yellow;
. Red clay is suitable for dry skin.
. For oily and problematic skin, masks with the addition of black and white will be effective.
When the choice is made, and a person already firmly knows which facial clay (according to skin type) is suitable for him, he needs to decide on the purpose of using the mask. You can also use a pure product diluted in water. This composition will also serve as a mask.
We create good skin products
How to use facial clay at home? Let's figure it out now.
In a medium-sized glass bowl, mix clay powder and warm plain water in 1:1 proportions (it is better if it is boiled, mineral or purified through a filter). Then stir with a wooden or plastic spoon until smooth. You should get a so-called clay slurry. It will have a consistency similar to thick sour cream. Do not leave it in this form for a long time, as the mixture dries very quickly. When applying, do not touch the mouth and eye areas. If you cover the top with a plastic mask with slits for the mouth and eyes, then you can keep the clay on your face without any time limit. But when it starts to dry, you need to wash it off, since it will no longer be useful.
As mentioned above, the most common masks contain blue. They are versatile and effective. about which, as a rule, positive, is used as a component for most mask recipes. So, for example, for the best result when smoothing the face, you need to mix milk and honey in equal proportions with clay. And for a brightening effect on problem and oily skin, you need to add egg white and half a teaspoon of salt to one tablespoon of clay.
And it is not at all necessary to use blue clay. You can experiment with different types. There is no single type that is most suitable yet.
For dry and irritated skin, a mask with the addition of dry clay, honey, cottage cheese, sour cream and milk in equal proportions is suitable. It is important not to use metal utensils when mixing, as its surface may oxidize and react with the components of the mask, and the result from such a product may not be very pleasantly surprising.
When fighting acne, the following “extreme” mask is suitable: vodka, clay, aloe extract in proportions 2: 1: 0.5.
All products should be kept on the face until completely dry, then washed off with warm water without soap, this is important. And it is advisable not to wipe the skin after this, but to remove the droplets with a towel using patting movements. The result will not keep you waiting long.
A little conclusion
Now you know how cosmetic clay for the face is selected according to skin types. There are several types of remedy. Therefore, carefully choose clay based not only on its color, but also on the characteristics of your skin.
Along with fruits, berries, vegetables and other natural products, cosmetic facial clay, which can be purchased in powder form in specialized stores or pharmacies, occupies a worthy place in home skin care. Clay has proven itself well in medicine and cosmetology. Healing solutions for wraps and baths are made from it, it is included in medicinal ointments, powders, many masks, shower gels and washes of famous cosmetic lines, it is even taken orally. Meanwhile, you can prepare clay face masks at home without any problems: the effect is the same, but it will cost an order of magnitude cheaper. However, before you run to the pharmacy for a miraculous natural remedy, you should understand and decide what kind of clay your skin needs. Today you can find about a dozen different types of clay on sale, each of which differs in both its mineral composition and properties.
The effect of clay masks on the skin
to contentsThe color of clay determines its properties
Clays are usually distinguished by color. The color and properties of clay are determined by its mineral composition. Some types of clay are rich in silicon, which has a positive effect on the condition of the epidermis, others in manganese, which has a drying and deodorizing effect, and others in aluminum, which stimulates collagen production and lipid metabolism, and strengthens blood vessels.
to contentsKaolin - white clay
In cosmetology it is used more often than other types of clay. Its main property is deep cleansing and whitening. Due to its mild action and non-abrasive nature, kaolin is widely used for the production of both adult and children's cosmetics. White clay perfectly removes any skin impurities, absorbing secretions from sweat glands and excess sebum, so it is best suited for caring for oily facial skin. For those with problematic and oily skin, white clay masks are a real godsend, because kaolin not only absorbs excess fat, but also perfectly dries, has a bactericidal and antiseptic effect, narrows enlarged pores and, most importantly, with regular use, normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands. In addition, white clay helps even out the complexion, relieves redness, irritation, allergies, and comprehensively heals the skin, saturating it with useful substances: silicon, zinc, potassium, sodium. The regenerative properties of kaolin contribute to the rapid healing of micro-wounds that remain on the skin from acne and acne. White clay is also effective in rejuvenation: it promotes the production of collagen, which is responsible for the elasticity and firmness of the skin.
In beauty salons, kaolin is mainly used as part of cleansing, whitening, drying or nourishing masks; in children's cosmetology, this type of clay is used in the form of powders, and in dermatology - in the form of ointments and pastes. Kaolin has also been used in decorative cosmetics, where it is included in dry deodorants and powders. White clay in its pure form, without adding any additional ingredients, can be used at home as a mask for oily, combination and problem skin, but to avoid drying out normal and dry skin, softening and moisturizing ingredients will be required.
In folk medicine, white clay is also used in the fight against baldness. It strengthens weak and brittle hair, treats oily seborrhea, helps get rid of dandruff, makes hair thicker and more manageable.
to contentsGreen Clay Components
This type of clay owes its green color to iron oxide. The rich microelement composition with a high silver content determines the unique cosmetic properties of green clay. In addition to silver, green clay also contains calcium, magnesium, manganese, zinc, copper, phosphorus, molybdenum, and cobalt. Green clay normalizes metabolic processes in skin cells, strengthens the epithelium, nails and hair, and slows down the processes of skin aging. Written information about the use of this type of clay for the preparation of masks and baths in combination with decoctions of medicinal herbs, aromatic and essential oils indicates that it was widely used back in the time of Cleopatra. Green clay acts on the skin as a gentle peeling, making it soft, tender and velvety, preserving its beauty and youth for many years. Thanks to the normalization of the sebaceous glands, a pronounced tonic effect and the ability to tighten pores, it will bring maximum benefit to people with oily and combination skin of the face and scalp.
to contentsUseful composition of blue clay
Blue clay, which is a powdery mass with a pH level of 7.3 of the corresponding color, is mainly mined in the Rhodope Mountains in Bulgaria. This type of clay contains a large amount of cobalt and cadmium salts; it also contains silicon, nitrogen, phosphate, magnesium, calcium and potassium. Blue clay perfectly cleanses and disinfects the skin, improves metabolic processes in skin cells, activates blood circulation and disinfects, tones, whitens, fights acne, and has an anti-cellulite effect. Cambrian blue clay is used in cosmetology both as an independent cosmetic product and as an active ingredient in creams, masks, soft peelings and powders. When the skin is prone to the formation of pimples, blackheads, pustules, and with staphyloderma after shaving in men, blue clay has a calming, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effect. Cambrian blue clay is an indispensable cosmetic product for the care of oily problem skin prone to acne, as well as for aging skin prone to sagging and wrinkles. This type of clay not only cleanses, renews and restores the epidermis, but also perfectly refreshes the skin and has a lasting tightening effect, making the skin smooth and elastic.
to contentsBlue clay and its properties
Blue clay is widely used in sanatorium-resort treatment directly on the basis of the places where its deposits are located. In cosmetology, blue clay is used as a base for masks, baths and compresses. In terms of mineral content, this type of clay is superior to almost all fruits and vegetables, and the silver contained in blue clay has excellent bactericidal, antiseptic and whitening effects, increases skin elasticity, helping to preserve its beauty and youth.
to contentsUnique gray clay
Gray clay is the rarest. It has the unique ability to deeply moisturize and tone the skin, as well as smooth out wrinkles. It is best suited for caring for dehydrated, dry, problematic skin. Gray clay is an excellent remedy for softening rough skin on the feet and elbows, which has not only a softening, but also a wound-healing effect.
to contentsHealing black fossil
Among other healing clays, it occupies a special place due to the content of biologically active substances that can normalize fat metabolism in cells. Mud therapy with black clay normalizes metabolism, improves blood and lymph flow, and activates protective and regenerative processes in the body. Black clay masks stimulate the healing of damaged skin and slow down aging. Black clay wraps effectively fight cellulite and help burn fat deposits.
to contentsRed clay for sensitive skin
Red clay owes its color to a combination of iron oxide and copper. It cannot boast such a wide range of healing properties as other types of clays, but it has also found application in cosmetology. In particular, red clay is used for sensitive skin prone to allergic reactions: it gently cleanses, relieves redness and irritation, soothes and restores the skin.
to contentsPink clay and its qualities
Pink clay contains a large amount of silicon, and its balanced mineral and chemical composition allows this type of clay to be used to care for all types of skin, including sensitive skin. Pink clay is one of the best natural remedies for the prevention and treatment of skin irritations, brittle hair and nails. Pink clay delicately cares for the skin, enriching it with all the necessary microelements, and has a mild disinfecting and smoothing effect.
to contentsYellow clay for turgor
Possessing sorbent properties, yellow clay removes toxins from the skin and helps it to be fully enriched with oxygen. Has a beneficial effect on the condition of aging, sagging skin.
Hi all!
You've probably seen that there are now a lot of jars and bags of cosmetic and medicinal clay on sale.
It is sold in stores, pharmacies, and specialized cosmetic stores.
What kind of clay is this and what healing effect can our skin get from interacting with it?
Let's figure out how cosmetic clay is useful for the face and body and consider all its types and properties ☺
From this article you will learn:
Cosmetic clay for face and body - properties and application
Clay is a polymer rock of volcanic origin, consisting of various minerals.
Cosmetic clay is a natural product that contains all the nutrients that our skin needs.
It contains mineral salts and very important trace elements:
- phosphorus,
- potassium,
- sulfur
- iron,
- magnesium,
- calcium,
- manganese,
- cobalt,
- copper,
- nickel,
- zinc,
- vanadium,
- silicon and many others.
Today it has been scientifically proven that with the help of clay you can not only cleanse the body of toxins (natural cosmetics are an environmentally friendly adsorbent), but also harmonize the human biofield by returning magnetic-electric balance to the cells
How does clay affect the face and body?
Clay can improve the condition of your body's skin:
- Clear,
- Remove excess fat
- Reduce sweating
- Relieve irritation and itching,
- Fill with trace elements and mineral salts
The main thing is to know and choose the right type of cosmetic clay that best suits your skin type.
Types of cosmetic clay for face and body
Clay occurs in nature in a variety of colors:
- white,
- green,
- yellow,
- red,
- blue,
- gray and even black.
It is by color that one can determine the mineral composition of clay, which in turn depends on the place of its origin.
Each type of clay has its own specific qualities, so it can be used in medicine and cosmetology for a variety of purposes.
White cosmetic clay or Kaolin
- What does it look like and what properties does it have?
White clay or Kaolin is a homogeneous white powder that has a yellow or grayish tint and is slightly greasy to the touch.
This is the most versatile and popular type of cosmetic clay.
It is ideal for treating, cleansing, nourishing, rejuvenating and restoring the skin.
This is one of the best scrubs that can gently exfoliate dead epidermal cells.
- What skin type is it suitable for?
This clay is great for caring for oily, combination or inflamed facial skin.
It perfectly dries, cleanses, tightens the skin, eliminates excess fat, tightens pores well and gives a slight whitening effect.
Blue cosmetic clay or Bentonite
- What properties does it have?
Many people know the anti-inflammatory properties of blue clay.
It contains all the mineral salts and trace elements necessary for the skin.
Prevents the appearance of acne, heals wounds and evens out facial skin, smoothing out facial wrinkles and evening out the skin.
It also has a slight whitening effect that can lighten freckles and age spots.
- What skin is it suitable for?
Great for oily and problem skin.
In addition, blue clay is used in folk medicine as a very effective remedy against baldness. To do this, it is diluted in a small amount of warm water and applied to the scalp, rubbing into the hair roots for 15 minutes, 3 times a week.
Green cosmetic clay
It has the widest application in cosmetology.
Thanks to iron oxide, this type of cosmetic clay has a rich dark green color.
This clay has powerful cleansing properties, increases blood circulation in the skin, thereby increasing its elasticity (turgor).
- How is it used and what skin type is it suitable for?
This type of clay is medicinal and can be used for some skin diseases (dermatitis, problem skin)
This clay perfectly restores the skin's hydrobalance, absorbs harmful components, and also perfectly softens and cleanses the pores of the face, eliminating oily shine.
Green cosmetic clay serves as the basis for cosmetics and is effectively used in the form of masks, wraps and various compresses.
Green clay can be mixed with any other type of cosmetic clay.
Red cosmetic clay
Red clay gets its color from a combination of iron oxide and copper.
- What properties does red clay have?
Due to the fact that its energetic properties are warm, it is best to apply it to the skin in the winter season.
It tightens aging and flabby skin well, improves blood circulation, and helps to increase the saturation of the facial skin with oxygen.
It is great for sensitive skin prone to allergic reactions (irritation, itching, peeling).
You can read more about red clay in this
Pink cosmetic clay
Pink cosmetic clay is formed by mixing white and red clay.
- What properties does pink clay have and what skin type is it suitable for?
It perfectly smooths out small wrinkles and tightens the facial contour.
Gently combats dry and irritated skin.
It relieves fatigue well, increases skin tone and elasticity.
This clay is ideal for any skin type.
Yellow cosmetic clay
- What properties does it have?
This clay relieves inflammation, improves complexion, tones and saturates the skin with oxygen.
Easily softens dead skin (especially on the elbows and legs and easily heals small cracks)
It also eliminates unpleasant odor and excessive sweating of the feet.
- What skin type is it suitable for?
It is very rich in iron and potassium and is ideal for caring for oily, combination, aging and dull skin.
Black cosmetic clay
Black clay contains strontium, quartz, iron, magnesium and calcium.
It is worth noting that black clay is capable of burning fat deposits and can be effectively used for anti-cellulite wraps, improving blood circulation and lymph flow.
It cleanses the skin very well.
This type of clay can perfectly absorb all harmful toxins and impurities from the skin. Helps tighten facial pores.
Suitable for normal, oily and combination skin.
Gray cosmetic clay
This type of clay is mined from the very depths of the seas.
Due to its moisturizing and toning properties, it is used for dehydrated, dry skin of the face and body.
How to apply cosmetic clay correctly?
Cosmetic clay is one of those cosmetic products that can be used in a wide variety of ways:
- scrub masks,
- compresses,
- wraps,
- applications,
- massage.
Compress or wrap with clay
Clay powder must be diluted with infusion of medicinal herbs or water (milk) to the consistency of sour cream and applied to cleansed skin of the face and body.
For the wrapping procedure, you need to wrap yourself in cling film and wrap yourself in a warm blanket for 1 hour.
Clay baths for the body
To take a clay bath, you just need to dissolve the cosmetic clay powder in water or herbal decoction, pour it into the bath and take it for 20-30 minutes (4-5 tbsp per bath)
Mask-Scrub made from cosmetic clay
It is very useful to make a mask from cosmetic clay once a week.
It not only evens out the surface of the skin, but also restores its color and normalizes blood circulation.
To do this, a small amount of powder is diluted with water or herbal infusion to form sour cream and applied to the facial skin along massage lines.
Massage with clay
It is useful to use some types of cosmetic clay.
To do this, add it in a small amount to body massage oil, perform a massage, and then wash it off under a contrast shower.
Cosmetic clay for the face - basic rules of use
Let's remember a few basic rules for using cosmetic clay:
- Regularity of use (2-3 times a week).
- Clay must be applied to a clean face or body after a shower.
- It is necessary to wash off the clay by taking a contrast shower.
- The first few procedures may be accompanied by a deterioration in the condition of the body’s skin and hair, due to the release of harmful components from the body.
How to make cosmetic face masks with clay?
So, the rules for making clay masks:
- The base of any cosmetic clay mask consists of 0.5 tbsp of cosmetic clay and 0.5 tbsp of water or herbal infusion.
- The mixture is applied to cleansed facial skin for 15-20 minutes. Wash off first with warm water and then with cold water.
- If you have irritated skin, add 0.5 tsp of apple cider vinegar to the base of the mask.
- If you need to moisturize your facial skin, add to the clay base in equal proportions: sour cream, milk, heavy cream, fruit pulp (watermelon, grapes, peach), vegetable oils (grape seed, jojoba), mineral water, aloe juice, egg yolk, 1-2 drops of essential oils.
- For dry skin, you can add to the base: cottage cheese, protein, yogurt, yogurt.
- For oily skin, it is good to add honey, lemon juice to a clay mask in a 1:1 ratio.
Features of using cosmetic clay
It should be remembered that the darker the color of the clay, the better it will remove fat and effectively deal with acne (except rosacea).
For example, black cosmetic clay can completely eliminate acne, leaving your skin healthy and very clean!
Do not forget that clay, like any other component, can cause allergic reactions.
Where to buy high-quality cosmetic clay?
Real high-quality clay cannot be cheap.
You should not buy clay for cosmetic purposes for 15-20 rubles, it is of a very low degree of purification and may contain harmful salts of heavy metals, as well as sand, stones and, when applied, can injure the skin.
This one suits me very well French 100% green clay, this jar lasts me for six months. I make masks once a week and I really like how it “polishes” and evens out the skin.
I hope my post will help you make the right choice in the variety of cosmetic clays and appreciate its magical effect on our skin.
Use this wonderful natural remedy, tell your friends on social networks... Let your face be decorated with a healthy glow and smile, and not nasty pimples or wrinkles ☺
Alena Yasneva was with you, see you again!
In the article we discuss clay for the face. We tell you the benefits of clay mixtures for the skin, which clay is best for the face. By following our recommendations, you will learn the most effective mask recipes for different skin types and how to make face masks from clay.
Facial skin care is a fundamental task for a young girl, middle-aged lady and elderly woman. Facial clay is one of the most effective ways to improve skin condition.
Clay masks are a natural and effective remedy that helps you look great.
The use of clay helps improve complexion, makes the skin smooth, clean and silky, saturates it with useful minerals and trace elements, eliminates redness and irritation.
Cosmetic clay for the face is easily available: just go to your nearest pharmacy or order it online. However, when buying this ingredient, remember: the quality of the clay depends on two factors:
- Clay mining area. The place of origin of the clay powder should be environmentally friendly, which will help “free” your skin from heavy metals, harmful and toxic substances.
- Clay composition. Some dishonest entrepreneurs create a color mixture artificially by adding a corresponding dye to the white clay powder. After carrying out a cosmetic procedure using a low-quality ingredient, you will not only not achieve the desired effect, but also paint your face an unnatural color.
Clays for the face and their properties
All types are suitable for use in clay face masks: white, blue, green, red, pink, yellow and black. Such variety makes you wonder which clay is best for the face?
There is no definite answer to this question, because the choice of clay depends on the skin problems of each individual woman. Let's figure out how to choose a care product based on existing skin problems.
White clay (kaolin)
White clay powder is actively used in the creation of masks, cosmetics, ointments, pastes, powders, and is used for children's cosmetics.
This ingredient is an excellent antiseptic that affects pathogens of inflammatory processes, draws out toxins, and perfectly fights bacteria, viruses, fungi, and pathogens.
Enriches the skin with oxygen and minerals, cleanses it of defects. It will become an indispensable assistant if you need to care for problem skin with acne - a skin disease that consists of red pimples.
Kaolin is suitable for those with skin prone to chapping and frequent contamination. If you are wondering which clay is best for oily skin, then kaolin will be simply irreplaceable for you. But it is better to opt for another type of clay for dry skin.
Blue clay
Used as a disinfectant with an antiseptic effect. This cosmetic ingredient received a blue tint due to the presence of silver in the composition.
Using this type of clay at home, you will improve your complexion, your skin will become soft, it will be enriched with useful substances, your pores will tighten, irritation will go away, pigments and crow’s feet will disappear.
Green clay
Of all types of clay, green is the best at making the skin soft, elastic and velvety.
This clay also perfectly disinfects: after its use, pores are cleaned, toxic substances are removed, the skin dries, and the functioning of the sebaceous glands is normalized.
The characteristic green tint of the powder is due to the iron oxide content. The positive effect of clay directly depends on the color saturation: the darker the shade, the greater the benefits of using clay powder.
Red clay
The red clay mixture is used for cosmetic purposes less frequently than the types discussed above. The red color of this cosmetic product is due to the content of iron and copper oxide.
Like green clay powder, it has a beneficial effect on the skin, although with less effectiveness.
Saturating the skin with oxygen, improving blood supply, increasing elasticity, reducing skin redness and itching - this clay effect is perfect for sensitive skin.
It is also recommended to use red clay powder as a cosmetic product for anemia, which is explained by the high iron content in it.
Pink clay for face
The properties of this type of clay are a combination of the properties of kaolin and red clay, because it is a mixture of these types.
This clay powder has a comprehensive effect on the skin: cleanses it, whitens it, tones it, promotes the production of collagen, and the removal of toxic and harmful substances.
According to cosmetologists, pink clay can be trusted with delicate facial skin care, so masks using it are a godsend for women with sensitive skin.
Yellow clay
I recommend using it if there are inflammatory processes on the face: acne, pimple formation, increased production of sebum, etc.
Its benefits also include saturating the skin with oxygen and removing harmful and toxic substances.
Black clay
Black clay powder is an excellent skin cleanser that can saturate it with microelements and minerals.
When using black clay, pores are cleansed, toxic substances are absorbed, and therefore in cosmetology this ingredient has acquired the “fame” of an antimicrobial facial care product.
Cosmetic clay for the face: which one to choose?
Any type of clay is perfect for normal skin. But if the skin condition is not ideal, clay is selected according to skin type, based on its healing properties.
Cosmetologists advise:
- To successfully get rid of rashes, choose mask recipes that contain white, blue, and yellow clay powder.
- Pigmentation will be a thing of the past if you choose blue clay.
- To reduce oily skin, it is better to choose white clay; blue is also good.
- Green or red clay mixture that restores the skin's moisture balance, which will help solve the problem of dry skin.
- Red or pink clay powder will help relieve irritation, so use masks based on it if your skin is sensitive.
- For aging skin, masks made from white, blue, green, and red clay are recommended because of their ability to fight the signs of aging.
- Green, blue, white clay for combination skin will be most effective.
Clay face mask
A clay mask will bring the desired effect if you follow all the rules for its use.
Use glass, ceramic or enamel dishes as dishes for the mask. Masks prepared in metal containers quickly lose their positive properties due to the chemical reaction that occurs and become unsuitable for application to the face.
Before applying the mask to your face, take a lying position. A clay face mask is quite heavy and, when hardened, pulls the skin down.
If you sit, the effect of saggy skin appears, which will negate all your efforts to look beautiful.
Follow the rules for applying a mask. Thorough cleansing of the skin before application is the key to the success and maximum effectiveness of a clay mask. At the same time, cosmetologists warn against applying a mask to the skin around the eyes, so as not to dry out this area.
Do not keep the mask on your face for too long. The clay mixture dries the skin, and therefore those with dry skin need to keep the mask for 5-7 minutes, for normal skin this time is 10 minutes, for oily skin keep it for no more than 15 minutes.
To achieve the desired result, take a significant break between procedures. Once a week will be enough for those with dry skin; for oily skin, clay masks are best done with an interval of 4-5 days.
Do not let the mask dry on your face. With such actions you are more likely to harm the skin than to benefit it, because... overexposed clay masks severely dehydrate the skin. Under no circumstances should you peel off the frozen mask, but wet it with water, wait until the clay mixture gets wet, and thoroughly rinse the mask off your face.
The best recipes for clay face masks
The active development of Internet technologies makes it easy and quick to find recipes for clay masks. Which ones are the most effective? Based on personal experience, I recommend the following masks.
To combat inflammation on the face, acne or irritation, a mask based on white clay powder is suitable. To do this, make a decoction of chamomile, calendula and celandine (taken in equal parts). After the broth has cooled, white clay powder is added until a thick consistency is formed.
A mask made of blue clay and tomato juice perfectly whitens the skin, significantly lightening freckles. It’s easy to create such a miracle mask: the same amount of blue clay, tomato juice, and sour milk must be combined in one bowl and mixed thoroughly.
You can tone your facial muscles using a sea buckthorn mask made from yellow clay powder. First, beat 1 yolk and add 1 tbsp to the resulting mass. yellow clay and pour 1 tsp. sea buckthorn oil. After thoroughly mixing the ingredients, apply the mask to your face.
A mask with black clay will help cleanse your face better than a scrub. Take 1 tsp. lemon juice, 1 tsp. calendula tincture and mix with black clay powder. The mask is ready for use if the result is a homogeneous thick mass reminiscent of sour cream.
An anti-wrinkle clay face mask based on milk and pink clay can rejuvenate you by several years in 15 minutes. For the mask, heat a little milk and add 1 tbsp. pink clay. Mix the resulting mixture thoroughly until a thick mass is formed.
The effect of maximum hydration and nutrition is best achieved with an oatmeal mask in combination with green clay. Pour 3 tbsp. water in a bowl, add 2 tbsp. green clay, 1 tbsp. oatmeal, stir.
Contraindications
Facial clay is a natural material that does not cause allergies, and therefore its use for cosmetic purposes has virtually no contraindications.
However, if you decide to use clay powder as an ingredient in masks, carefully read the ingredients in the recipe.
If the mask contains at least one component to which you are individually intolerant, such a mask will do more harm than good.
Facial clay - reviews
There are a lot of reviews on the Internet about clay for the face, body and hair due to the popularity of this cosmetic product.
Most reviews about facial clay are positive. Many women use it with great pleasure and notice a lot of beneficial effects of clay on the skin. Here are the most typical reviews.
Elena, 34 years old
I often used blue clay in a face mask, diluted it with rosemary water - it cleanses the skin very well and gently, tightens it and does not dry it out at all, unlike kaolin.
Today I tried Moroccan red clay for the face - the review about it is twofold. Well, she’s no better than my blue one, and how often her praises are sung! That, they say, she is the best. Yes, it is effective, yes, it works, and many others, yes, but it is not the best. I don't see any particular advantages over regular blue.
Svetlana, 22 years old
I was looking for clay for dry skin. I liked the reviews about pink clay for the face, bought it and applied it. Indeed, it copes with inflammation very easily! It's even surprising. I tried so many different tonics, powders, ointments... but all I needed was cosmetic clay for my face. I recommend it to everyone - it works.
We can conclude that a clay face mask is one of the most common ways to give your skin a well-groomed look.
The use of this cosmetic product as part of masks has gained popularity due to its universal and complex effects.
The skin is cleansed, moisturized and receives the necessary nutrition, wrinkles are smoothed out, and pigment spots disappear.
What to remember
- Before using clay, make sure you are not allergic to it.
- Each type of clay has certain properties.
- Try to avoid letting the clay dry completely on your skin.
In your natural history lesson, your teacher probably told you that due to temperature changes and the effects of atmospheric phenomena, the earth’s crust cracks. Moisture gets into the resulting cracks and slowly but surely begins to destroy the rocks, as a result of which they turn into dust rich in various minerals. Most of it is blown away by the wind, but some remains on the surface. These tiny particles are saturated with water and compressed over time. This is how clay appears.
Already several thousand years ago, people knew that this was not just sticky mud underfoot. They made dishes from it and used it as a detergent: they washed clothes and bleached wool. In addition, the viscous mass was used as a preservative. They dipped fresh meat, vegetables, fruits into it, and the products in such a shell did not spoil for a long time.
Interestingly, this natural preservative is not only safe for humans, but also very useful. In terms of the content of micro- and macroelements, clay can compete with many modern vitamin and mineral complexes. Probably, our ancestors guessed about its rich composition and therefore willingly consumed it as a spice and a special delicacy. Moreover, many nations continue to do this to this day. But the functions of clay are not limited to this. It is readily used as a powerful cosmetic product that allows you to “preserve” beauty for many years.
Blue tightens pores
Blue clay is considered one of the most ancient and useful. They say it was once worth its weight in gold. It owes its color and wonderful anti-inflammatory properties to silver. In addition to this precious metal, it contains silica, phosphate, iron, nitrogen, magnesium, calcium and other useful macro- and microelements. Thanks to their coordinated work, blue clay masks actively nourish, soften and tone the skin, tighten pores and improve intracellular processes. And if you rub the paste into the scalp, you will get a wonderful remedy for baldness.
Blue clay is ideal for normal and combination skin types.
White and yellow - against wrinkles
The beneficial properties of white clay (also called “kaolin”) were first described by the “father of medicine” Hippocrates in the 4th century BC. e. The ancient Greek aesculapius experimentally proved that kaolin stops inflammatory processes in tissues and removes toxins. White clay owes these properties to its unique composition. It contains almost all the microelements that our skin needs: potassium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, silica, etc. Masks based on it gently cleanse the epidermis of dead cells, whiten it, improve blood circulation, strengthen capillaries, stimulate collagen production and smooth out wrinkles. Kaolin has an antiseptic and antimicrobial effect, so it is often used in the fight against acne. In addition, it helps reduce swelling and eliminates congestion in the subcutaneous tissue, which is useful in the battle against cellulite. White clay masks will fill weakened hair with vital energy and eliminate fragility.
Yellow clay has similar composition and properties. By the way, it saturates the skin with oxygen better than others and removes toxins from it that accumulate due to unfavorable ecology and poor nutrition. And it returns shine and strength to the hair.
Kaolin is optimal for sensitive, dry and thin skin. By the way, this is the only type of clay with a pH of 5.5 (the same as that of the epidermis). Yellow “dirt” is most suitable for aging skin.
Green cleans
Green clay contains a lot of magnesium, calcium and zinc, and its characteristic color is colored by iron oxide. It is believed that the darker the shade of the powder, the more effective the result from the mask will be. This type of “dirt” has absorbent properties and is ideal for deep cleaning. Green clay simply has no equal in the treatment of oily seborrhea. It frees pores from dirt, narrows them, normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands, and at the same time disinfects and dries the skin. When applied to hair, it strengthens it, normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands and eliminates dandruff.
Green clay is ideal for oily and problematic skin and is contraindicated for dry skin.
Red and gray - tone
Iron and copper oxide colors clay red. Its absorbent properties are less pronounced than those of other types of “mud,” but its tonic properties are very strong. Red clay improves blood supply and “breathing” of the skin. It also increases the elasticity of capillaries, relieves irritation and allergic rashes. Hair masks based on red “mud” improve blood supply to the hair follicles and strengthen the roots. They are especially recommended to be applied after coloring and perm. As for gray clay, it tones the skin no worse than red clay, but at the same time it also perfectly moisturizes it, and returns healthy shine to dry hair and activates metabolic processes in the hair follicles.
Red clay is indispensable for skin with closely spaced blood vessels and prone to allergies, gray clay will benefit dry and dehydrated skin.
Expert opinion
Lama PROVOTOROVA, cosmetologist at the beauty salon “La Visage”:
If you make clay masks too often, you can damage the protective hydro-lipid mantle and dry out the epidermis. So don't get carried away. One procedure per week is enough. If circumstances require more frequent use of clay (for example, when eliminating allergic rashes and speedy healing of open wounds and cuts), you should use clay water. Pour 2 tbsp. spoons of dry red, white or blue clay with a glass of water at room temperature and let it sit. Soak a cotton swab in the liquid and apply it briefly to the inflamed area of skin or wound. Such washings should be done as often as possible.
How to prepare a mask
For the face. You can buy “mud” in its pure form at the store and make your own mask. Pour 2-3 tbsp. spoons of clay 3-4 tbsp. spoons of water at room temperature. It is better to take the liquid not from the tap, but a non-carbonated mineral one. There is too much chlorine in the tap, which dries out the skin and can cause irritation. Leave the clay for 30 minutes so that the water is completely absorbed, and only then stir. If you hurry, the paste will turn out heterogeneous, with lumps. The finished mass should have the consistency of thick sour cream. Too liquid runs off the skin, and too thick cannot penetrate deep into the pores. Apply the mixture to cleansed face and neck, avoiding the area around the eyes. When you feel that the clay is starting to dry out, rinse it thoroughly and lubricate your skin with a nourishing or moisturizing cream.
For hair. The hair mask is prepared in the same way as for the face. Apply it to dry strands, rub thoroughly into the scalp, put on a plastic cap and wrap everything in a terry towel. After 20-30 minutes, rinse your hair with water and wash as usual.
For the body. To prepare a clay bath, add 4-5 drops of essential oil to a handful of dry powder for aroma and add a small amount of water. When the liquid is absorbed, mix the mixture thoroughly and dilute it in a filled bath. You can bask in it for no longer than 30 minutes.
Five Clay Rules
Don't pick it up from the floor
Colored clay can be found everywhere - near lakes, rivers, streams and even in your own garden. But you shouldn’t use such natural material. After all, clay absorbs not only useful microelements, but also heavy metals. To prepare cosmetics, a thoroughly purified product that has undergone radiological control is required. Go get it to a pharmacy or store.
Look for southern "dirt"
The healing power of clay largely depends on the climate of the area where it is mined. The inhabitant of the southern regions is considered the most useful. If you got the “northerner”, don’t be upset. Just take the prepared paste out into the sun before the procedure. 30-60 minutes will be enough for the effect of the mask to become more pronounced.
Forget about metal
When preparing clay masks, do not use metal utensils. The ideal option is glass or wood.
Add yolk
If you wish, you can mix different types of clays or add ingredients to the mask that your skin is accustomed to - egg yolk, honey, milk, vegetable and essential oils, etc. Just keep in mind: it is better to pour oils into dry clay, all other Luggage fillers when mixing.
Freeze leftovers
If you have prepared too much mush, do not rush to throw away the leftovers, it is better to put them in the refrigerator. True, only a mass of clay and water can be stored in it for a long time. If it contains any additives, the shelf life does not exceed 6 hours.