Clay + Skin = Care
Have you ever heard the quote; “Knowledge is power” ? Even though debate still rages about where this quote first popped up in history, it certainly applies to many areas in life, wouldn’t you agree? One such area I’m most interested in sharing with you today is your skincare! Most people don’t realize that acquiring as much knowledge about the ingredients in their skincare is the very key to actually finding products that will work!
Here in our latest blog post, we’re peeling back the layers of our favourite ingredients for healthy skin… clay!
What Is Clay and What Are Its Benefits on Skin?
Clays are completely natural earthy materials, made of finely ground soil or rock that has been dried or ionized by the sun. Clays offer many excellent benefits for the skin due to their high antioxidant content, as well as an array of powerful minerals including magnesium, calcium, silica and zinc, to provide the skin with a gorgeous elixir of nutrients that deliver almost instant results.
Clays are well-known for their ability to draw impurities from deep in the skin, helping to keep the skin clear and healthy with a radiant glow. Before you dismiss clays as a product for teens, because you may well be past the acne stage, we want to let you know that clays come in many different colours, some of which are better suited for dry or aging skin. Clays also help to stimulate blood flow, helping to boost collagen production, which improves the skin's elasticity.
Which Clay Is Best for YOU?
Pink clay is great for firming and toning the skin. It is gentle enough for all skin types and it will leave the skin feeling soft and rejuvenated. Try this clay on the face and any areas of the body that benefit from tightening and firming,, such as the thighs, arms or stomach.
This is one you may be more familiar with! French green clay is perfect for more oily skin types, as it has a wonderful purifying effect on the skin and will draw pesky impurities out and away. It has natural powerful exfoliating properties to help unclog the pores and prevent and reduce the severity of blemishes. Its healing properties help to reduce redness and inflammation. If your skin is quite sensitive, then you may want to do a patch test on your neck or inner arm to be sure your skin can tolerate it before applying to your entire face.
This is a multi-purpose clay that is just as wonderful for acne as it is for dry and/or aging skin. Rhassoul clay is rich in minerals such as magnesium, silica, potassium, and calcium. This powerful red clay also helps to deeply cleanse the skin, balance sebum levels and soften and hydrate dry, flaky skin.
Kaolin white clay is known for being a gentle option for dry, sensitive skin. It’s great at stimulating circulation, gently exfoliating and cleansing the skin. Its natural disinfectant properties help to heal acne and inflammation, and because this clay does not draw oil from the skin, it’s a great option for drier skin types.
Bentonite clay has become increasingly popular over the years, mainly due to its ability to absorb excess oils and impurities from the skin. This clay is great for oily, acne prone skin, as its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help to heal and reduce breakouts.
How to Use Clay
Clays are easier to use than you think and a whole lotta fun to whip up!
● Simply add some water to form a paste and apply in a generous layer all over your face and neck.
● Leave to dry for at least 20-30 minutes.
● You will feel a tightening effect and the clay will change to a lighter colour once fully dry.
● Rinse with warm water or use a damp washcloth to gently wipe the excess off before patting dry.
● Follow up with the rest of your regular skincare routine.
● Voila!
Got Questions? Give us a shout!
If you have any questions about natural face care for anyone, we are happy to help.
Visit our website at www.nezzanaturals.com for more essential oil information and DIY recipes.
