Benefits of Clay Masks

August 30th is National Mud Pack Day, so we think it's a great time to dive in to the benefits of clay masks. Clay masks are popular beauty treatments for acne-prone skin, and Salon Patrice offers clay facials, but do they work? What are there benefits? Let's dive in.

What is a clay mask?

A clay mask is made up of one of several types of clay, like kaolin or bentonite. Sometimes they come in powder form and you'll mix them with water to form a paste you can spread on your face. Clay masks also come pre-mixed in tubes or jars for easy application. These clays have the unique ability to bind to excess oil, impurities, and dead skin cells. When clay is applied to the skin, it dries and draws out debris from the surface and the top layer of your pores. When you rinse the mask off, that dirt and debris is washed away with it.

Types of clay masks

There are several types of clay masks, and they have some differences between them.

• Green clay: Made from bentonite or French green clay, this type of mud mask is generally the most oil-absorbing. This type of mask is best for oily or acne-prone skin.

• Red clay: This type is rich in iron oxide and may improve circulation while gently absorbing oil without being drying, so it's great for normal to combination skin.

• White clay: White, or kaolin, clay, is the gentlest type of clay and absorbs oil more slowly, so it's good for dry and sensitive skin types.

• Pink clay: Pink clay is a blend of red and white clays, so it's also a great choice for dry or sensitive skin.

• Black clay: Black, or volcanic, clay, contains minerals like silica or magnesium, adding some anti-inflammatory benefits while cleansing your pores.

Some clay masks also contain additional ingredients such as charcoal, salicylic acid for added benefits.

Benefits of clay masks for skin

Now that you know which type of clay mask is best for you, here are the benefits you can look for when using a clay mask.

• Sebum reduction: While studies show that clay masks only reduce sebum (oil) for a couple of hours, it can still be helpful.

• Clearing pores: Clay masks loosen and wash away the buildup of oil, dead skin, and other debris that becomes trapped inside the pores. This is why they're a good tool for oily and acne-prone skin.

• Improved skin texture: Because they absorb excess oil and remove dead skin, you'll notice that your skin's texture is smoother after use.

• Mild tightening effect: Clay tightens as it dries, so your skin may look and feel tighter for a few hours after you use your mask.

• Reducing toxins: Some research suggests that clay usually has a negative charge. Because of this, it may bind to positively charged toxins and heavy metals found in environmental pollution.

Benefits of clay masks for hair

Never heard of using a clay mask on your hair? While most of the evidence is anecdotal, some people claim that clay's ability to remove excess oil and toxins have helped with the following scalp and hair issues:

• Dandruff

• Dry and damaged hair

• Frizz

• Heat damage

How to use a clay mask

It's unlikely that you'll experiences side effects by applying a clay mask to your skin or hair unless you are extremely sensitive or leave the mask on too long, in which case your skin will feel dry and irritated. Whether you have a prepared mask or need to mix your clay with water, apply an even layer across your face, starting at your neck and working upward. Leave the mask on for about 15 minutes, rinse off with lukewarm water, and follow it up with your regular skincare routine. The same goes for your hair and scalp: apply an even layer to your scalp, leave for 15 minutes, wash out, and style as normal.

Ready for a clay mask? Salon Patrice offers clay mask facials and many other types of facials, which you can learn more about here, or call (815) 223-8643 to schedule an appointment.