Tuesday 8 September 2015

Introduction To Comestic Clay

Today's topic is about an ingredient that we use in our soaps and have plans to introduce you to in other products. Clay. What do you think of when you hear that word? Well the definition of a clay is a stiff sticky fine grained earth. And this is definition remains true whether it is clay to be molded or cosmetic clays. There are a variety of cosmetic clays available but we would just touch on a few of the more familiar ones.

Each cosmetic clay has its own benefits that is unique to it dependent upon its origin and properties, but in general they:
  • Cleans
  • Exfoliates
  • Absorbs oils
  • Draws toxins


Clays today are used in masks, wraps, cleansers, shampoos and yes soaps. So which clay is the right clay for your skin. Let's take a look at some of the clays for different skin types, their benefits and uses. Some clays can be used both externally and internally but today we are only covering external uses

Betonite Clay    Recommended for oily and acne prone skin. There are two types - Sodium and Calcium Betonite. Calcium Betonite particles are smaller than that of Sodium and are more effective when used internally.

It is used for:
  • Hair care
  • Skin care
  • Bruises
  • Insect bites and stings

Kaolin Clay White Kaolin clay is one of the most recommended clays and is considered to be ideal for people with sensitive skin. Ideal for a gentle exfoliation this clay is used in Shaving creams and soaps to give slip.

Kaolin Yellow While it has a stronger absorption than White it still has a soft texture is gentle and is safe for most skin types.

Red Kaolin  With more drawing power than other Kaolin this is more suited for oily skin. It can be used in soaps, wraps and masks. It shouldn't however, because of it's strong drawing power; be used more than once a week for facials.

Pink Kaolin A careful blend of both Red and white recommended for normal skin.

French Green Clay A dark green clay that is Ideal for facial masks and body and hair wraps. It is a mild exfoliant and has detoxification properties. Recommended for normal to oily skin types.



Rose Clay This is my personal favourite. With its beautiful colour it is a soft and gentle exfoliating properties. Recommended for persons with dry, sensitive, mature and normal skin types. It draws toxins without diminishing the skin's moisture. It's a great cleanser and wonderful in scrubs masks and soaps.



Rhassoul Clay Our piece wouldn't be complete if we don't touch on this clay. Rich in minerals this remarkable clay is used in both skin and hair products. It is considered to be one of the best treatments for oily skin


It's easy so easy to make facial scrubs and masks using cosmetic clay. Most of the time we can use the everyday ingredients we can find in our kitchens.

Facial scrub:
 1 Tbs Oatmeal powder
 1 Tbs sugar
 2 Tbs Rose clay ( or the clay of your choice)
 1 Tbs Sweet Almond oil
 2 Tbs milk (whole milk yoghurt or buttermilk can also be used.
1/2 tsp honey.

Mix dry ingredients together. add milk, oil and honey. More milk can be added if needed. Rinse face with warm water. Gently rub over the face avoiding eyes and wash off with warm water.



Facial mask:

2 Tbs Rose Clay
6 Tbs Honey
1 drop Essential oil

Simply mix clay with honey and add essential oil. Wet face with warm water. Apply mask to face in a circular motion. Rinse off with warm water.

Simple Face mask recipe:
2 Tbs Rosewater (cucumber water, milk)
Ttbs French Green Clay (or the clay of your choice)
1 drop Essential Oil (Lavender, Tea Tree or Chamomile)

Simply mix ingredients together. Apply to face and let set for 10 minutes. Wash off with warm water and pat face dry.

Try mixing your clay with herbal teas for a detoxifying body wrap. Or reap the benefits of adding it to your warm bath for relaxing detox bath. Because of its drawing powers always remember to keep a glass of cool water nearby when doing a detox treatment.


When choosing a clay always ensure that the clay is of a cosmetic grade. Consult with your supplier to make certain you are purchasing the right clay for your skin type. And finally as with any skin care product always test it on a small portion of your skin for any allergic reactions.