Clay is a particularly powerful home remedy for acne. It provides a deep cleansing of the skin by removing dead skin cells, excess oil, chemicals, free radicals and heavy metals.
Additionally, clay contains numerous minerals and nutrients that are beneficial for the general health of your skin.
Like other home remedies for acne, clay does not cure acne. It does not stop your sebaceous gland from producing excess sebum (oil). But is does a good job at cleaning the skin and removing the oil and impurities that amasses there. Thus, it effectively reduces the chances for the skin to break out.
Clay is applied directly on the skin as a mask. It is possible to purchase clay masks already prepared but these are usually more expensive than buying powdered clay and making the mixture yourself.
It is very easy to prepare a clay mask. Simply put the powdered clay in a bowl and gradually add an equal amount of pure water while stirring with a wood spoon. The final mixture should be muddy and not entirely liquid. Steam your face gently, apply the mask and leave it on for approximately 15 minutes or until well dry. Rinse abundantly afterwards.
White clay is perfect for a facial mask
For the face we recommend using white clay which is softer for the skin. Green clay has more cleansing power but it is also more rough and is more likely to dry out the skin. Avoid using green clay in the face if you have sensitive skin – although green clay will usually be ideal for the back or for those with oily skin.
Don’t overdo it. Using clay too often can result in an excessively dry skin that is no more desirable than an oily one.
Even more of concern is that the body is likely to begin secreting more oil in response to the dry skin. This can create a vicious circle and complicate matters for you if oily skin comes back with a vengeance.
Use clay masks gradually. Try once a week to start with. See how it goes and adjust from there. You can also begin with white clay and upgrade to green clay if the results are not sufficiently satisfying or if your skin is not particularly sensitive and able to take it.
Don’t expect dramatic results overnight. Clay will work its magic over time (give it a few weeks) if used regularly and with balance. You can use it in combination with other home remedies for acne that are applied on a daily basis such as medicinal herbs. If you do this, pay attention to how your skin responds to the combination of treatments and make necessary adjustments.
More : Basic Do’s and Don’ts of Acne
What I like to do when making a clay facial mask is to either add a few drops of tea tree oil (or some other softer oil depending on what I feel like) or mix the clay with herbal water instead of just regular water. That way the mask is a more powerful home remedy for acne.