Clay: Not Just for Arts & Crafts

One of my favorite facial products to use that I think are really overlooked are Facial Clay Masks. Judging by the feedback I have received, most people don’t use masks which I was really surprised about. I think in North America, they’re viewed as a luxury item you get at a spa, not as a necessity in your skin care routine. Coming from someone who has a lot of trouble with my skin with the slightest climate change, I’m telling you that masks are powdery miracles.

Why should you start including clay masks in your weekly skin care routine?

• Clays are able to absorb toxins and impurities from your skin, giving your pores a deep cleanse, but some also put minerals back into your skin to soothe and rebalance it
• The drawing action stimulates your lymphatic system which in turn increases circulation, bringing up more oxygen to your skin for a happy glow
• Some clays exfoliate while they work, killing two birds with one stone

There are a few different types of clays out there to use but they each have different qualities and are suitable for different skin types. Here are a few that I’d recommend looking for in your facial products:

• Green Clay: Excellent for drawing impurities out of your skin; it does absorb a lot of oil so it is best suited for oily/problem skin
• Pink Clay: Gently draws out impurities but doesn’t absorb oil – great for dry/sensitive skin
• White Clay: Another gentle clay that also has mild exfoliant abilities – suitable for all skin types, especially dry skin
• Yellow Clay: Helps to liven up tired, neglected skin – a nice pick-me-up for mature skin

Tips for Use:

• If it’s powdered, you could mix your mask with plain water, however for a more luxurious feel, you could also mix the powder with a vegetable oil (ex. Sweet Almond Oil), hydrosol (ex. Rose), tea (ex. Chamomile), yogurt, or some facial lotion.
• Never let your mask dry completely on your face! Have a spray bottle handy as allowing it to dry does more harm than good
• Use a good moisturizer afterwards to rehydrate the skin

Masks aren’t just for the spa! Take 20 minutes out of your week to relax and rejuvenate your skin, you’ll see instant results!
Love, Ash XO