Although they have been used for hundreds of years as a traditional healing practice, clays are enjoying a renaissance of sorts in the natural beauty world. They have lots of benefits for your skin and can heal many common skin issues. One such issue is dry skin. So I’ve created a recipe for a bentonite clay mask for dry skin that will leave your face soothed and hydrated.
Feel free to jump straight to the recipe below, or keep reading to learn how each ingredient helps treat your dry skin.
Ingredients
Bentonite Clay
Bentonite clay has a lot of healing benefits for all skin types, but this is how it helps your dry skin. When mixed with water, bentonite clay becomes negatively charged. Most bacteria and toxins that dry out your skin are positively charged. So the clay seeks out these impurities to bond with them. Once bonded, they have washed away with the clay.
Argan Oil
Pressed from the argan nut, this oil is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fatty acids. It’s known to soothe inflammation and boost cell production, and exfoliate and moisturize skin.
If you can’t find argan oil, a good substitute is hemp seed oil. Benefits for skin are similar to argan oil, maybe even better.
Essential Oils
Essential oils are commonly used in skin care products because of the many benefits they have for skin health. Different essential oils nourish your skin in their own unique ways. The best oils for dry skin are cedarwood, clary sage, geranium, jasmine, myrrh, patchouli, Roman chamomile, and sandalwood. Substitute your favorite oil for my choice in the recipe below.
Related: 7 Ways to Use Witch Hazel for Skin
Clay Mask for Dry Skin Recipe
When it comes to masks, I think simple is best. Therefore, this mask has three basic ingredients:
- Tbsp. bentonite clay
- 3 tsp. argan oil
- drops clary sage essential oil
In a small glass bowl, mix the clay and oil until smooth. Add in a tiny bit more oil if the mixture is clumpy. Once mixed, add in your favorite essential oil(s) and mix again.
Spread the mask on clean skin and leave it on for about 15 minutes. Wash off with a soft cloth and warm water.
Any leftover mask can be kept in an airtight jar. Use this mask twice weekly for smoother, more hydrated skin.