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Before the tons of face masks available today, there were clay masks. But modern beauty lovers soon realized that these masks were too time-consuming for their busy lifestyle. With the arrival of light-sheet masks, clay masks slowly started to occupy the back corner of vanity tables everywhere. However, what many people don’t know is there is a great reason why this type is the ancestor of all facial masks. The clay powder face mask is unique the only type that can be beneficial for everyone – regardless of skin type, age, gender, or type of skin problems. That is because there isn’t simply one type of clay out there. Green clay, red clay, mud, ochre…there is a variety of clays to choose from according to your skin type.
Do Clay Face Masks Work?
Right after applying a clay mask, you will start to feel your face tightening withing 5 minutes. As the clay begins to dry, the skin itself also tightens up. As the skin pulls together, circulation improves and excess waste comes out and gets absorbed by the clay. As a result, you will start to notice that the clay mask is helping lift your skin thus redefining your facial lines and you will notice that your pores have tightened. Clay has also the power to absorbs excess sebum off the surface of the skin. If you have oily/acne-prone skin consider using green clay. If you have aging/sensitive skin, red clay may be more effective for you.
Some people wrongly assume that clay masks dry out the skin. The truth is, it can actually increase the skin’s moisture level. Instead of completely plucking out sebum or oil from clogged pores, clay masks gently lift away sebum and dead skin that are preventing moisture from being absorbed properly. It is perfectly safe for dry or sensitive skin types too. If you have excessively dry skin, clay mask products containing a blend of while clay and glycerin will do a great job at keeping your skin hydrated.
And the best of all – it is completely natural. One of the biggest problems with today’s skincare products is that many of them are highly toxic. The majority of them contain very harsh ingredients, such as synthetic fragrances, phthalates, parabens, BPA and toxic substances that have been linked to everything from chronic disease to skin irritation. Clay masks, on the other hand, are a completely natural way to cleanse, detoxify, purify and beautify your skin without any negative side effects.
Why Should You Choose a Powder Mask?
There are two benefits of using clay powder face mask: it is cost-effective and you can customize it. For example, you can use a clay-based mask with water for drawing out impurities or exfoliating or choose to combine it with honey or aloe for a gentler, hydrating mask session. If you are someone who worries about preservatives, there is usually none. Beauty brands also tend to be very generous with the amount of mask powder you get for your money. Some brands tend to be pricey, but you get much more product when you choose a powder mask over a pre-mixed one.
How to Apply Clay Face Mask?
Step #1 – Cleanse Your Skin
You should thoroughly cleanse your skin to remove any build-up of oils, dirt and makeup. This will allow the mask to penetrate deep into your pores and really work its magic.
Step #2 – Apply a Thin, Even Layer of the Mask
You can use a brush or clean fingers to apply a thin, even layer. With a clay mask, less is more. A thick layer takes longer to dry and any amount of product that doesn’t touch the skin is a waste.
Step #3 – Sit Back and Enjoy
You should leave the mask on for about 10-15 minutes. Meanwhile, you can simply sit back and relax or maybe use this time to apply a hair mask or paint your nails.
Step #4 – Rinse and Pat Dry
When it comes to how to remove a clay face mask, it should be done with a clean face washer and lukewarm water. Rinse out the dry clay. Do small, circular motions to rub away the clay. Repeat until the mask is completely removed. Then, with a clean, dry towel, lightly pat your skin until dry.
Step #5 – Moisturise
Once you’ve done rinsing and drying your face, your skin will feel amazingly soft and rejuvenated. Apply a lightweight moisturize to lock in the goodness.
How Long Should You Leave a Clay Face Mask On?
Dermatologists recommend leaving a clay mask to dry for at least 3 minutes, but no longer than 20 minutes. While some individuals feel that leaving clay on for hours will deeply decongest the skin, in reality, it will end up upsetting your pH balance, which cause problems.
How Often Should You Use a Clay Face Mask?
Here is the general rule of thumb: Hydrating clay mask versions can be used daily while versions with exfoliating, detoxifying or anti-aging properties should be used a couple of times a week. Your skin type also plays a role, so pay attention to how your skin reacts post-application. People with oily complexions may be able to use a clay mask up to three times a week, while those with sensitive or dry skin type may only benefit from a weekly application.
