Selecting & Using Cosmetic Clays

Clays have been used for centuries by a variety of different cultures as a method to help beautify the skin. They are available as a fine powder and are present in almost all traditional beauty products and regimens. Clays exfoliate, clean and invigorate the skin while improving circulation. Clay has the ability to absorb excess oils, dirt and harmful toxins from the skin. The additions of herbs to clays add even greater benefit.
Cosmetic clays contain minerals, and each clay has a different effect on the skin. Regular use of clay masks will remove dead skin cells, improve circulation to the skin, remove debris from the pores and bring about a smooth healthy glow. Most clay has the ability to absorb toxins from the skin but differ in levels of absorption.
Clays are commonly used in facials and mud wraps, but can be added to body powders and soaps. Cosmetic clays come in a variety of hues, ranging from white to deep blue. This array of colors makes them a popular choice as a natural colorant in soap, lotions, creams and bath salts.
Clays that are suitable for dry, sensitive or normal skin are Pink Kaolin, White Kaolin, Yellow Kaolin, and Rose. Clays that are suitable for oily skin are Bentonite, French Green, Green Illite, Red Kaolin, Blue Montmorillonite, Red Montmorillonite, Moroccan Red, and Multani Mitti (Indian Fullers Earth). Clays that are suitable for all skin types are Dead Sea, Rhassoul and Sea clays.
When purchasing clays, be sure to purchase clays that are cosmetic or medicinal grade. Technical grade clays often have dangerously high content levels of lead and should be avoided.
The following facial mask recipe is easy to make and can be customized to suit your specific skin type and personal preferences.
Using Clay in Soap
Adding clay to soap gives it a creamy dense lather that makes it ideal for shaving. Bentonite and French Green clay are often used for this purpose. Clay is useful for adding natural earth tone colors to soap. Use it at a rate of on table spoon per pound of soap.
Clay Mask Recipe
2-3 oz. Clay
1-2 oz. Herbs
Water
1-2 drops Essential Oil added at the time of application (optional)
Choose clays and herbs that are suitable for your skin type. Citrus peel powders add astringency, rose petal powder adds fragrance, yellow sandalwood powder helps dry skin and neem powder helps acne. Other ingredients that can be added are milk powders, honey powder, oatmeal and sea vegetables. Mix the powdered ingredients to make 4 oz. of dry clay facial and store in a 4 oz. jar. Clay masks should not be stored pre-mixed with the wetting agent.
To use, add approximately 1/2 oz. of the dry clay facial herb blend to a small bowl and mix enough warm water or hydrosol to make a paste. Add a drop or 2 of essential oil if desired. Apply to the skin in a gentle circular motion, and leave it to dry for about 15-20 minutes. Wash off with warm water. If the skin feels tight, a light oil such as camellia can be applied afterwards. Experiment with other wetting agents. Strawberry puree will act like an alpha-hydroxy. Cucumber puree cools the skin, yogurt cools and softens the skin, and milk removes dead skin cells and softens the skin.
Take a moment to pamper and heal your skin. Your body and significant other will thank you for it!