Ever heard or tried soiling up your face with clay? Well here's what it does

Clay, an earthy composition of minerals coming from volcanic rocks, has served as a great healing agent for beauty and health. Different types of clay are used to resolve and treat skin with its purifying properties. Here is what you need to know about clay:

Types of clay:

Kaolin

Kaolin, or China clay in the white variety, is often used in face masks as it controls excess sebum production. It is high in calcium, silicon, magnesium and is a safe option for those with sensitive skin.

French clay

French green clay is another option for face masks. This is filled with volcanic matter and minerals that benefit healthy skin. It helps moisturise dry and rough skin, tightens pores, tones it and eliminates dead skin cells and dirt.

Moroccan rhassoul clay

This red textured clay is iron rich and has antimicrobial properties that make it exceptional for detoxifying the skin. It’s great for improving skin’s elasticity, controlling and doing away with excess oil, sebum and works on a healthy and glowing skin.

Bentonite

Bentonite or montmorillonite is a fine volcanic ash. This type of clay comes with iron, copper, magnesium, calcium, sodium, potassium and is known for its ‘toxin removal’ activity. Bentonite is useful in reducing the chances of acne, blemishes, redness, dermatitis, eczema as it cleanses the bacteria clogged in the pores.

Fuller’s earth

Fuller’s earth or multani mitti is a traditional form of clay used commonly for skincare and beauty. It is often used to combat acne problems as it absorbs excess oil and cleanses the skin from dead skin cells. These properties make it beneficial for oily skin.

Uses:

Clay gel for burns and rashes:

Steps

• You need 2 cups of water with 1 cup of clay powder.
• Mix these ingredients well and apply onto the affected area.
• Wash it off before it dries up completely

Detoxifying bath soak:

Steps

• Mix in some powdered clay in your bath tub.
• To soak in only your feet, take a bucket with warm water and mix 3 tbsp of dry clay powder of your preferred choice.
• Put your feet in for not more than 30 minutes. 

Facial clay mask:

Steps

• Take a bowl with some water and preferably some bentonite clay.
• You could also mix a few drops of your choice of essential oils be it lavender, chamomile, geranium, lemon, orange.
• Apply gently and leave it on for 20 minutes.