Types Of Cosmetic Clays and Their Skin Benefits

For centuries, cosmetic clays have been widely appreciated across various beauty cultures and regimes of the world. They are named as the most soulful wisdom of nature, brewed with skin-loving properties and purifying effects. In the present arena, cosmetic clays and powders have become a popular name in the world of organic skincare. But what exactly is clay cosmetic, and why does it receive immense significance?

This guide will help you understand the A to Z of cosmetic clays - what cosmetic clays are, different types of cosmetic clays, their benefits and uses for the skin, along with some necessary precautions.

What Are Cosmetic Clays?

Originating from the lap of nature, cosmetic clays refer to the powder obtained from volcanic ashes and the decomposition of rocks. They are composed of natural minerals that hold deep purifying and soothing effects, making it an organic skincare marvel. It is very gentle and safe for use, even for the most sensitive skin types.

The primary reason is its velvety texture and lightweight formula that doesn't feel heavy on the skin. Let's explore more about cosmetic clays by understanding it's different types and forms.

What Are The Types Of Cosmetic Clays a.k.a. Clays For Skin?

With nature's variation in mineral formation across the globe, we are blessed to get a wide range of clays. These clays vary in their skincare properties, mineral content and benefits. Here's a list of popular types of cosmetic clays that you can use for skin care. 

Looking to combine cosmetic clays with essential oils for skin care products? Find out about best essential oils for skin in this detailed guide. 

Kaolin Clay

This infamous Chinese mud originates from natural weathering of rocks beneath the earth's surface. High-quality kaolin clay is generally found in white colour but it can also be red, yellow or pink as a result of mineral composition. It has a gentle texture that calms the skin and removes impurities without stripping the skin's natural oils. This makes it excellent for sensitive skin tone without causing any allergic reactions.

French Red Clay

Illite, popularly known as French red clay, primarily originates from France. It is a powerhouse of rich essential minerals like iron, silicon and potassium that improve skin vitality and help in reversing the symptoms of ageing. This makes it an important additive in the luxury skincare range, including exfoliators, bath bombs, soaps, body masks, ceramic lotions and many other similar products.

Bentonite Clay

Born from the ashes of volcanic eruption, bentonite clay is the most popular and widely used skincare ingredient across the globe. This grey powder has a grainy texture in comparison to the greasy composition of Kaolin. It can be found across various regions of the world, including the USA, India, Japan, China and various other countries with rich sources of sedimentary deposits. Bentonite clay is best for oily skin due to its intense absorbent properties that reduce excessive oil production and help tighten the skin pores.

French Green Clay

If you are also a fan of gentle detox, glowing skin and skin-friendly ingredients, then French green clay is your perfect companion. Native to France, this clay occurs from debris of volcanic eruptions and turns green due to iron infusion. Being a rich source of silica and magnesium, French green clay is widely used for crafting several anti-ageing recipes and scalp exfoliators. It is considered nature's true miracle with its intense healing and purifying properties.

What Are The Benefits Of Clay On Skin?

From gently exfoliating the skin to controlling bacterial growth, the harmonious benefits of cosmetic clays are endless. Below are a few prevalent and common observed results of using cosmetic clays. 

• Helps in regulating excessive sebum production by eliminating dirt and impurities.
• Prevents bacterial growth and aids irritation.
• Effective on acne and inflammation.
• Provides deep cleaning without hampering the skin barrier.
• Controls dandruff and helps to maintain a healthy scalp.

Top Ways To Use Clays On Skin

Excited to start using cosmetic clay for skin but wondering where and how to start? We've got some ideas for you. 

Detoxifying Face Mask

Take 1 tablespoon of bentonite clay with apple cider vinegar and aloe vera gel in a bowl. Mix all the ingredients together and apply them evenly over the face. Once it is completely dry, use lukewarm water to rinse it off. Pat dry your face using a soft towel and moisturizer your face using a few drops of sweet almond oil or pure castor oil.

Cleansing Face and Body Scrub

Create your own clay scrub that gently exfoliates your skin and fights bacterial growth without being harsh on your skin. Add 3 tablespoons of French Clay, 2 tablespoons of face wash or shower gel, 1/2 tablespoon oats powder, 10 ml sweet almond oil, along with a few drops of tea tree essential oil, to a small glass container. The combination of  French Clay and tea tree works best for treating the symptoms of acne, eczema and skin irritation.

Oil Controlling Scalp Mask

The best way to get rid of dandruff and dirt flakes from the hair is by balancing the natural oils of the scalp. Make a deep detoxifying Mask by creating a mix of bentonite clay (for oily scalp) or pink clay ( dry scalp), aloe vera gel, ACV and 4-5 drops of rosemary essential oil and gooseberry oil (Amla oil). Apply the mix over your scalp for 10-15 minutes and rinse off using a mild shampoo and conditioner.

Soap Making

You can use a variety of clay options for cold process or melt and pour soaps. Natural clays like pink clay, French red clay or even green clay can act as natural colorants in soap making. They help give your handmade soap bars a lovely hue along with a long list of skin care properties. I mean, what's not to love! As a bonus, they aren't expensive so it is always easy on the pocket. 

Read about best essential oils for melt and pour soaps to find out which oils to combine clays with. 

Selecting The Right Cosmetic Clay For Your Skin Type

Each type of clay supplements different properties. For instance, pink clay is deeply moisturising and hydrating in comparison to the detoxifying effects of the French clay. The best method to identify your perfect fit for cosmetic clay is by educating yourself on the most suitable options for diverse skin types.

Clay For Oily And Acne Prone Skin

Bentonite clay is highly suitable for use on oily and acne-prone skin tones. It has an intense absorbent effect that provides deep cleaning and regulates excessive sebum production.

Clay For Dry And Sensitive Skin

The gentle exfoliating properties of Kaolin Clay make it ideal for individuals with sensitive skin tones. Well known for eliminating impurities and adding glow to the skin. 

French green clay works exceptionally well for oily skin and combination skin types. It has silica and magnesium that regulate the natural oil balance and delay premature ageing of the skin.

Precautions and Possible Side Effects To Watch Out For

Excessive use of clay can cause dryness and irritation as they are highly absorbent in nature, which might strip the natural oils of your skin. Cheap quality clay powder might contain metal contamination that can cause allergic reactions and sensitivity. 

Applying a clay mask for too long can cause some severe mishaps. Therefore, it's necessary to use it in standard amounts for measured time durations.

Concluding Thoughts

By tapping into the world of organic skincare and adopting cosmetic clays, you are welcoming a healthier, nourished and vibrant version of your skin. Whether it's a detoxifying mask or dandruff treatment, cosmetic clays are worth the hype. However, always ensure that you are using a quality clay that is free from any sort of parabens and chemicals. Also, don't forget to apply a good amount of natural moisturiser like virgin coconut oil or jojoba oil on the skin after using cosmetic clays. This will help in preventing dryness, making your skin appear soft and supple for longer durations.

Before you leave, don't forget to checkout our vast range of cosmetic clays in wholesale and bulk quantities. Aromachology oils is a proud supplier of natural essential oils, carrier oils, CO2 extracts, and of course, clays and powders. Our versatile pack sizes ensure every business finds its fit.