Clay facial masks are an easy and inexpensive way for both men and women to pamper themselves and invigorate their skin.
Creating an application technique that works for
your skin will get you one step closer to a beautiful complexion.
Gather the Ingredients/Equipment - be sure that all the equipment, including your hands, are clean!
- Small, non-metal, bowl
- Small, non-metal, spoon
- dry clay powder
- Water
- Facial clay mask applicator brush.
Mixing The Clay
Step 1: Start with approx 1/2 to 1 Tablespoon of clay in the bowl.
Step 2: Slowly add 1/4 teaspoon of room temperature or warm water and mix with a non-metal spoon.
Step 3: Continue adding small amounts of water and mixing until a creamy mud-like consistency is reached.
Some clays need more water and some need less, so always begin with just a little water and continue to check the consistency. Be sure to mix well to a smooth clay paste.
Important note: when mixing clay with water, it is recommended that you do not use metal. So, stick to wood, glass or plastic mixing bowls and spoons. The quick and simple reason -- when clay comes into contact with water the clay is "activated" and contains negatively charged ions which may be affected by ions present in metal utensils.
Applying the Mask
Step 1: Begin with a clean, dry face free of make-up, moisturizers, etc.
Step 2: Using the face mask brush, or a flat foundation brush, apply the mask to your face (and neck if desired).
I usually apply a thin first layer and then apply a second thin layer.
Step 3: Allow mask to dry for 5-10 minutes. Drying times vary depending on the clay and your skin type.
For oily skin or a deep cleanse, allow the mask to dry almost completely and then remove--leaving the mask on longer does not add anything beneficial to the treatment and may cause increased redness.
Thus for sensitive or dry skin or a more gentle cleanse, allow the mask to only dry around the edges of the face and nose and then remove (about 5 minutes).
Removing the Mask
Step 1: I like to remove a clay mask with warm water and my fingers.
To re-hydrate the mask a bit for easier removal, you can dampen a cotton facecloth with warm water and hold it to the face before removal.
As the clay dries you will feel a pulling and tightening sensation on your skin.
However, if your skin ever burns, hurts, or generally feels uncomfortable, wash the mask off immediately.
If you choose to use a clay mask on your neck and décolletage, please note that the skin on your neck and chest is thinner, more sensitive, and has fewer oil glands. If you have sensitive skin you may experience redness or irritation which may take a while to recover.
Clay helps increase circulation. As a result, you may experience a mild temporary redness for up to 30 minutes.
After application of a clay mask, you will feel a tightening effect and the skin may even feel a bit itchy at first.
Step 3: Moisturise! Follow-up with a facial oil or moisturiser.
Step 4: Enjoy your super smooth and beautifully fresh skin!
You don’t have to reserve clay facial masks for special occasions! YOU are always special!
How Often Can I Use a Clay Mask?
There is no totally correct answer because as with any skincare treatment, it is most important to notice how your own skin reacts to the treatment.
Since clay masks can have a strong absorption effect on the skin, it is usually recommended that you use a clay mask 1-2 times per week.Remember that more is not always better.
While the major factor in determining how frequently you should apply a clay mask is your skin type, the type of mask should also be considered.
Other factors that can affect how often you should use a clay face mask are the weather and time of year.
Your skin type may actually change with the seasons. For some, the Summer sun is very drying. However, for others, the Winter dry heat can be worse.
Skin can fall into a wide range of categories but in general, it is usually considered one of these four types: oily or acne-prone, normal, combination, or dry or mature.
- Oily or Acne-Prone Skin is often more resilient and may tolerate a more drawing mask and a more aggressive regimen of clay masking. Begin slowly, but you can probably use a facial mask 2 to 3 times per week. However, do not use 3 masks your first week, begin slowly and build up to it.
- Dry or Mature Skin is more sensitive. I would recommend using a gentle mask once a week.
- Combination Skin may require a bit more experimentation. Since you basically have two skin types on your face you may need to use more than one mask.
- Normal Skin is a tough one. I am not sure I have ever met anyone with a "normal" skin type.
Begin by using a gentle mask, like those containing kaolin clay, once a week.
Then you can then increase the number of times per week to 2 or 3. As you switch to different masks remember that a more drawing clay may be more irritating--so go slowly!
When is the Best Time to Apply a Clay Mask?
Applying a clay mask facial on a quiet evening before bed is a nice way to relax and unwind. It also helps cleanse the impurities that have built-up on your skin during the day and allows your skin to rejuvenate during the night. Also since clay masks may cause some temporary redness, an evening application will give the skin time to refresh itself.
If you choose to do a mask in the morning, allow your skin a rest for at least an hour before applying makeup.
Little Tip: Be sure you are comfortable with the way your skin reacts to a mask. Do NOT use a new face mask right before you are planning to go out.
***If you are concerned about skin sensitivity do a small skin patch test.
