ALL ABOUT CLAY MASKS

Clay masks are a tried-and-true way to deep clean your pores and eliminate impurities on your skin. Adding a clay mask to your skincare routine two to three times a week can do wonders for your complexion by providing extra nourishment for your skin.  
 

Depending on the mask you’re using, clay masks can provide a number of key benefits for your skin. Here are some of the top benefits of using clay masks. 
 

Dirt, pollutants, and product buildup can accumulate below the skin’s surface. Clay is a proven ingredient for drawing out these impurities that can cause breakouts. If you have combination skin (meaning some areas of your face are dry and other areas are oily), try a clay mask with blue agave and baking soda. This type of mask deep cleans your pores while also soothing and conditioning your skin.
 

While clay masks are great for any skin type, they are especially useful for oily skin thanks to their ability to attract and absorb sebum (natural oil produced by your skin). The highly porous nature of clay acts like a sponge to absorb excess oil from both the skin’s surface and deep within the pores. Using a clay mask for oily skin a few times a week can help minimize shine on the surface of your skin to give you a more matte complexion.
 

Clogged pores tend to be filled with trapped dead skin cells and sebum, which can leave your pores congested or impacted. When this clogged material dwells in your pores, the clog darkens, creating blackheads and giving your skin a dull complexion. When you use a clay mask, it gently draws out foreign particles without irritating the pores. Using a clay mask can help detoxify your pores and improve the look and feel of your skin.
 

Some types of clay masks incorporate natural elements to exfoliate the skin without using harsh ingredients, some of which may cause an allergic reaction. If you’re looking to gently exfoliate your skin and remove pore buildup, try a brightening mask.

 

Clogged pores—caused by buildup—can lead to dull-looking skin. By clearing the skin of impurities, clay masks help you achieve a brighter, glowing complexion. Because clay comes from mineral rocks that eroded over time, it’s also rich in beneficial trace elements like calcium, magnesium, iron, and potassium, to name a few. These essential minerals have detoxifying properties, in addition to providing skin nourishment.
 

Clay can draw out pore-clogging material that may lead to breakouts. Adding a clay mask to your skincare routine can help purify your pores and give your skin some extra TLC.
 

The best way to apply a clay mask depends on the specific mask you’re using. When you find the best face mask for you, make sure to read the instructions on the package to ensure proper use. Some masks should only be used for one minute, while other masks can be left on for a longer amount of time and even overnight. For most masks, application steps can be boiled down to seven easy steps:

1. Cleanse your skin with a gentle cleanser.


2. Read the instructions on the product to determine if skin should be dampened with water before applying a mask.


3. Apply the mask to your skin, being careful around your eyes, nose, and mouth.


4. Let the mask sit on your skin for the recommended time.


5. Remove your mask with warm water and a washcloth. Thoroughly rinse your skin.


6. Inspect your skin to make sure all traces of clay are removed.


7. Continue with your regular skincare routine. Next steps may include applying toner, moisturizer, or a pore strip, depending on your skin type and skincare needs.

• Use a generous amount of product to make sure you don’t miss any areas of your face.


• If you have oily skin, clay masks can be a fantastic way to control excess oil and help prevent clogged pores.


• Avoid using clay masks on broken or sensitive skin as it may be irritating.


• If you tend to have dry skin on your face, clay masks may dry out your skin even more. If you notice dry skin after using a clay mask, make sure to apply moisturizer after removing the mask or limit the number of times you use the mask each week. Dry skin types may also feel the mask action more intensely. Applying the mask to wet skin and lessening the time mask is in contact with the skin can help avoid and relieve potential usage discomfort.