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The Power of Clay
Friday 18th March 2022
What are clay masks?
Clay masks are created with different types of clay which contain naturally occurring minerals such as selenium, silica, magnesium and zinc oxides. These mineral rich clays are commonly found in France, China, and North Africa, but can also be found worldwide. They're extracted from sources such as ocean beds, volcanic ash deposits, and mineral springs.
Using clay masks may help your skin in a variety of ways. Many people like to use clay masks to improve their overall complexion. Having been shown to reduce and prevent acne and blackheads, the masks help to cleanse, while drawing out and removing excess sebum from the face and body.
Some clay masks not only clean but help to hydrate the skin and are a great solution for combination or dry skin types. Clay masks can help to soothe the skin, allowing it to become relaxed, smooth, and even toned. Furthermore, some clay masks contain minerals which have been shown to boost collagen, meaning your skin can look and feel younger. This is another reason why clay masks are prized as a luxurious spa treatment worldwide.
What are the different types of clay masks?
Green clay
Green clay is often referred to as French clay but by definition is called illite clay. While it was first sourced in France, it is now found worldwide in oceans and mineral rich springs. The clay becomes green when combined with natural marine flora and contains minerals like magnesium and phosphorus. Its unique structure will not expand when it absorbs water, making it a possible hydration solution for your skin.
• Key benefits: hydrates the skin, clean pores, reduces sebum and mattes the skins appearance. It can also help soothe and tone skin.
Red clay
Red clay or French red clay is found in the northern region of France. It's rich red colouring comes from naturally occurring iron oxides and contains minerals like silica, potassium, and calcium. Red clay is popular for acne and oil prone skin types with its ability to drastically absorb impurities from the skin.
● Key benefits: Draws oil from the skin, helps with acne. Cleanses skin and pores. Promotes an even skin tone and helps to stimulate cell growth. May also help to repair broken capillaries.
Pink clay
Pink clay is a combination of red and white clays such as Kaolin and Bentonite. Pink clay, while reportedly suitable for all skin types, is most popular for those with sensitive skin. Typically, pink clay is made with a specific type of pink Bentonite clay found in France. This lovely pink clay has naturally occurring zinc, selenium, and magnesium that can help clean, calm, and moisturise the skin.
● Key benefits: Cleans the pores and reduces excess oil. May improve elasticity and even skin tone.
Moroccan clay
Moroccan clay, also known as Moroccan Red Clay, Rhassoul, or Ghassoul (Arabic meaning 'to wash'). It was first discovered centuries ago near the mountainous Atlas Range of Morocco. Moroccan clay is popular for its mineral rich properties which can contribute to healthy skin. It's known to contain minerals such as copper, magnesium, calcium, silica, and zinc. Moroccan Clay is prized by exclusive spas for its luxuriously fine consistency and ability to rejuvenate the skin.
● Key benefits: Mild on sensitive skin types, can soothe acne-prone skin. May help boost collagen. It helps to unclog and clean the pores and absorbs access oil.
Kaolin clay
Kaolin clay is also known as China clay, as its most commonly found in Gaoling, China, but can be found internationally. While it's mostly used as a white clay, it can also be found in shades of pink and orange because it contains zinc oxides.
● Key benefits: Smoothing the skins appearance, tones, and absorbs oil. Gentle on dry or sensitive skin. Its antibacterial properties help make it a mild anti-inflammatory.
Why we love clay masks?
We absolutely love using clay masks, for their skin loving properties. Our masks have been formulated to absorb access sebum and are paired with some of nature's finest ingredients including gentle exfoliators, antioxidants along with nourishing and hydrating ingredients to provide a natural boost to the skin's appearance.
Clay masks can be a great addition to your skin care plan, but when adding any new product, always do a patch test to ensure the products are suitable for your skin and read any warnings on the packaging prior to using.