A Guide To Clay in Skincare

There aren’t many products that within 10 minutes can rid skin of all impurities and leave you looking healthier than before, but clay is one of them. I’d be lying if I didn’t say that my skin has transformed since using a clay mask weekly - it’s brighter, clearer and has a fare more even texture, what more could one want? The benefits of using clay on your skin are endless, but there is more to it than just picking any clay mask off the shelf as the origin of the clay has a huge impact on the effectiveness. This guide is here to solve all your clay questions and help you pick the best one for your skin.

Types of Clay

There are multiple types of clay that can be found in masks, each serving a different purpose and helping achieve different results. It is important to look around the clay category before purchasing as depending on your skin type, there will be a mask best suited, whether that is oily/acne prone, sensitive or dry and depending on your preference, different masks have different textures.

These different types of clay have different sources and therefore varying levels of minerals and vitamins, which will have an impact on the effectiveness - some more gentle that are suited to sensitive or dry skin types and some stronger, more suited for oiler complexions.

Kaolin White Clay

As one of the mildest forms of clay available, Kaolin is widely used and suitable for all skin-types from dry to acne prone. Kaolin is a naturally occurring clay mineral that gently cleanses the skin to remove impurities and absorb oil without being too stripping due to it being such a gentle clay.

Who For? All skin types.

Kaolin Pink Clay

This is the best suited clay to sensitive skin types as it has very mild exfoliating properties that helps to clear the skin without being too abrasive and harsh that can potentially cause irritation and sensitivity. As it’s so mild, rose clay doesn’t absorb too much oil, leaving you looking luminous and hydrated post clay.

Who For? Sensitive skin

Recommendations: Herbivore Pink Clay Cleansing Bar, Origins Original Skin Retexturising Mask, Sand&Sky Brilliant Skin Purifying Pink Clay Mask, Algenist Alive Prebiotic Balancing Mask,

Kaolin Red Clay

With a high content of iron oxide, red clay is great at purifying the skin and drawing out impurities whilst keeping skin radiant. It also doesn’t dry too much on the skin so is suited to sensitive skin types.

Who For? Congested skin.

Bentonite Clay

Also known as volcanic ash, bentonite clay is a powerhouse ingredient that flushes toxins and deeply cleanses the skin without stripping it of oils and leaving skin feeling tight. The clay contains magnesium, copper, iron and silicate which all have unique healing powers when used on the skin. From helping to heal acne and unclogging pores to softening and toning the skin, bentonite is a great all rounder clay with multiple uses.

Who For? All skin types (test on sensitive skin before applying all over/using regularly)