How to Mix the Bentonite Clay for a Facial

Clay masks are soothing and can make your skin look clearer.

Clays have been used traditionally for centuries to clean the skin and hair. They help remove dead skin and excess oil. Bentonite clay is especially good at absorbing oil, so it is used in cosmetic preparations designed for oily skin. But if your skin is not oily, you can still make use of the cleansing properties of bentonite without drying your skin out. Mixing a clay mask requires no special tools or techniques, and clay masks can include liquid or powdered ingredients to clean and pamper your skin.

Things You'll Need

• Bentonite clay
• Powdered additives (optional)
• Glass or plastic bowls
• Measuring spoons
• Silicone spatula
• Water-based additives (optional)
• Oil (optional)

Instructions

1. Add the clay and powdered additives, if using, to a bowl. Powdered additives for a clay mask include other types of clay, powdered rose petals, powdered milk or colloidal oatmeal. Use up to 3 tablespoons of dry ingredients per facial treatment. Stir with a silicone spatula to combine thoroughly.

2. Add water and water-based additives, if using, to a second bowl. Water-based additives include rose water and other hydrosols, glycerin, honey or aloe vera gel. Prepare up to 1 cup of water-based ingredients per facial treatment. Stir to combine.

3. Add the water-based ingredients to the dry ingredients 1 tablespoon at a time, stirring constantly. When the mixture is smooth and the consistency of peanut butter, let it sit for 20 minutes.

4. Mix in more of the water-based ingredients, or oil, if using, until the mask is the consistency of pudding. Stir thoroughly to combine. The clay mask is ready to use.

Tips & Warnings

• If combining bentonite with other clays for a mask, use warm water.

• Warm honey slightly before adding to liquid ingredients.

• For dry skin, add rose water, honey, olive oil and milk powder to keep skin from drying out.

• For oily skin, add lemon essential oil or hazelnut oil.

• Only use cosmetic grade bentonite. You can get cosmetic grade bentonite at health food stores or cosmetic supply stores.

• Test the clay mask in an inconspicuous area if you are using a new ingredient or are preparing for a special occasion. An adverse reaction is the last thing you want all over your face right before a big event.

• Keep this clay mask refrigerated if you don't plan to use it immediately. Discard after one week.

References

• Mountain Rose Herbs: Clay: The Medicinal and Cosmetic Benefits
• Snowdrift Farm: How to Make Facial Masques
• From Nature with Love: Cosmetic Grade Clays