Reducing excess oil is a major skin concern for people with oily skin. This is because the excess oil production clogs pores and makes the skin prone to developing acne. Often, acne occurs when pores of the skin get blocked with oil, dead skin, or bacteria which lead to the production of pimples such as blackheads and whiteheads.
With the above, several individuals with affected oily skin result in having low self-esteem due to the change in appearance. However, using a clay mask once or a few times a week can make a noticeable difference on an oily face or even if you just want an improved facial complexion.
Why Clay Masks Work Wonders for Oily Skin
While acne is known to affect adolescents, it is important to understand that it affects people of all ages. To reduce the excess oil, also known as sebum, popular beauty products like clay masks come in handy.
Clay masks are known to penetrate deep into the pores to remove dirt, dead cells and toxins.
They assist in cleansing, smoothening and brightening the skin by eliminating impurities that block pores. These clay masks contain ingredients like kaolin, and bentonite that absorb excess oil and contain pores.
How to Choose the Right Clay Mask for Your Skin
Each skin type has its unique needs and getting the best clay mask for oily skin requires a good understanding. This is because clay masks used for dry skin types cannot work for the oily skin type as they tend to be more gentle.
At the same time, research shows, clay masks are best used for oily skin as they tend to dry out your skin. So, most definitely, the absorption properties for the two skin types vary greatly therefore the best clay mask for dry skin cannot be the best clay mask for oily skin.
Top 5 Clay Masks for Oily Skin
Since time immemorial, clay has proved to be a necessary ingredient that works magic on oily skin and that is why its use in face masks. In this article, we explore the five clay masks for oily skin you can try at home to prevent or control acne breakouts including both ready-made and Do It Yourself (DIY) options.
Bentonite Clay
Bentonite Clay is considered an ancient mineral that has an ability to increase as much as 14 times its original volume and its deposits are normally extracted by quarrying. It is very mineral-rich and also considered the most popular of the clay masks.
If you have very oily skin or have never tried a clay mask before, you should go easy on bentonite application as it has high absorbing properties that could react on a sensitive skin.
It is advisable to first apply a small portion of it on the skin before applying on the entire face at once.
Kaolin Clay
Kaolinite, known as kaolin, is a common clay material that is soft and usually white. Kaolin is traced as first being mined in China and used in ancient Chinese pottery as well as in porcelain production.
Considered a cosmetic clay, it is known for absorbing excess oil and getting rid of impurities that get trapped on the skin. This way, fresh skin layers and new shine are let out. If you have sensitive skin or if you are looking for a mild option, then kaolin is your best choice.
Fuller’s Earth Clay
This clay is also known as bleaching clay and is particularly used for its skin-lightening effect that makes it a popular ingredient in most commercialised creams.
Green Clay
With its distinct green color and being primarily mined in France, this rich deposit of minerals dubbed French Green Clay is also considered beneficial in skincare.
Rhassoul Clay
Rhassoul clay is mined in Morocco and is known to have been widely used by women on their hair and faces for centuries.
How To Apply a Clay Mask
To gain the most out of clay masks:
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- Wash your face and pat it dry
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- Apply a handful of clay on the face and neck while avoiding the eyes, nostrils and mouth
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- Keep the clay mask until it is completely dry
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- When dry, the mask will tighten and the color will also change
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- Rinse your face with warm water and dry for freshness
DIY Clay Mask Recipes for Oily Skin Using Natural Ingredients
If you prefer making a clay mask for yourself at home then you can follow the following steps:
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- Get a clay powder of your choice and mix with water until you get a mixture that suits your preference but do not let it be too dry.
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- Mix honey and rosemary and continue stirring thoroughly until you acquire a soft mixture
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- After achieving a thick paste, follow the steps above on how to apply a clay maximum results
So, do not be held back by excess shine or pimples on your face. Your skin deserves a better look and feel. Pick one of the recommended face masks above and acquire your flawless skin in no time. If you have tried any of our recommendations or have made your home-made clay mask and it worked, leave a comment to encourage another individual acquire healthy-looking skin today.