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Face masks, body wraps – any of these self-care options will benefit. Today we decided to recall green clay and its beneficial effect on the skin, and at the same time clarify how to use a green clay face mask.
The benefits and properties of green clay for the skin
aluminum;
silicon;
gland;
magnesium;
potassium;
calcium.
Clays are distinguished by qualitative and quantitative composition, as well as by color. What does natural green clay look like? It is a powder that, when combined with water, turns into a thick green mass. Iron oxide and decomposed algae, mainly kelp, are responsible for this coloring.
But the benefits of green clay are not limited to cleansing, since it enriches the epidermis with trace elements that are part of its composition in the form of impurities. That is why wraps based on it are useful for the overall tone of the body.
So, in the composition of face products green clay:
soothes the skin;
absorbs excess sebum;
visibly tightens pores;
has antiseptic properties;
refreshes tone.
How green clay works on the skin
Skin cleansing, pore size reduction
Thanks to its absorbent properties, clay is able to cleanse the pores and thereby visually “pull” them, that is, make them less noticeable.
Fighting imperfections
Regular use of clay masks reduces the risk of imperfections. Clay has a detox effect and at the same time saturates the skin with beneficial substances. In addition to all the listed valuable minerals and elements, it contains silver, which has antiseptic properties.
Toning
Any clay mask gives a well-pronounced tonic effect.
Skin softening
Immediately after the green clay mask, the skin becomes soft and tender to the touch. To prolong this condition, it is necessary to apply a cream immediately after the procedure – nourishing or moisturizing, depending on the type and individual needs of the skin.
How to use green clay for face
Mix green clay powder and water in a 1:1 ratio. For example, 1 tbsp. l. powder and 1 tbsp. l. water. If desired, you can add a drop of aloe gel or 1 tsp. honey, mashed avocado or banana.
Mix all ingredients until smooth.
Apply the resulting slurry to a previously cleansed face. Hold for 10-15 minutes. The main thing is that the mask does not begin to tighten the face and crack – this means that it was overexposed.
Rinse off the mask with warm water.
Apply a moisturizing/nourishing cream to the skin.
Противопоказания
Strictly speaking, a green clay mask can be used by everyone except those with very dry or dehydrated skin, as well as with inflamed pimples and acne in the acute stage. Otherwise, there are no contraindications.
Overview of cosmetics with clay in the composition
The beneficial properties of green clay have been adopted by cosmetics manufacturers, combining this ingredient in products with other active ingredients. In the review, we have collected effective masks that contain different types of clay.
Facial mask “Magic clay. Cleansing and matting, L’Oréal Paris
The mask contains three clays:
kaolin, saturated with silicates, effectively absorbs dirt and fights oily sheen;
gassul, rich in trace elements, returns a fresh and healthy color to the face;
Montmorillonite, which contains useful minerals, purposefully fights against skin imperfections.
The mask is enriched with eucalyptus extract, known for its antiseptic properties. The product perfectly cleanses and tightens pores, and also mattifies the skin.
Facial mask “Magic clay. Detox and Radiance, L’Oréal Paris
The soft texture provides comfort on application, while three types of clay and charcoal deeply cleanse the pores and draw out impurities from them, leaving the skin clean, smooth and radiant.
Amazonian white clay mask Rare Earth Pore Cleansing Masque, Kiehl’s
Facial mask, deep cleansing pores, Clarifying Clay Masque, SkinCeuticals
The formula is based on a combination of kaolin and bentonite with hydroxy acids. It helps reduce the visibility of pores, removes excess sebum and exfoliates the skin.
Steaming mask “Clean Skin”, Garnier
It contains kaolin clay, and upon contact with the skin creates a steaming effect, which enhances the cleansing effect. Narrows pores.
How else can green clay be used?
Green clay mask with flour
Mix green clay powder and flour in a 1:1 ratio. Dilute the mixture with water to the consistency of thick sour cream. Apply to cleansed face for 20-30 minutes. Wash away. Apply moisturizer.
Spa mask
Mix ¼ cup of green clay powder with an equal amount of cool water. Add to the mixture 2 tbsp. l. honey and 1/4 cup mashed banana or avocado. Evenly apply the mask on the face and leave for 10 minutes, rinse with warm water, wipe the face with tonic and apply the cream.
Cucumber Cleansing Mask
Finely grate a small cucumber, mix with 1 tbsp. l. dry yeast and add 1 tbsp. l. green clay. Leave the resulting mass on your face for 20 minutes, and then rinse with warm water, wipe your face with tonic and apply cream.