4 Montmorillonite Clay Benefits (+ DIY Mask Recipe)

If the word “clay” brings up images of ancient pottery, it might be time to update your skincare. Clay is used in various ways, but one of the most beneficial is a Montmorillonite clay mask. This is the perfect easy DIY for you to add to your weekly skincare routine.

Montmorillonite is a type of clay named after the village of its discovery - Montmorillon, France. Although it is closely linked to bentonite clay, Montmorillonite was discovered 50 years before bentonite. You may hear all kinds of clay referred to as bentonite, but the reality is that Montmorillonite is the base of bentonite clay. This type of clay is known for being full of minerals, including silica, magnesium, and copper. Interesting fact….you can even eat this clay for an internal detox! 

Clay has been used for centuries as an organic way to cleanse one’s body, inside and out. There are many ways to use clay, but one of our favorites is in the form of a mask. Here are some benefits of a clay mask:

Detox Skin

Like most types of clay, one of the most beneficial uses of Montmorillonite is to absorb dirt and sebum from one’s pores. A clay mask will detox your skin by removing dirt and sebum, leaving you with fresh, clean pores. 

Boost Collagen

Montmorillonite is full of minerals that are great for our skin. The mineral silica, which is plentiful in Montmorillonite, is known to help maintain healthy connective tissue. This leads to a boost in collagen production - and really, couldn’t we all use more of that? 

Reduce Acne

Many factors contribute to acne, and perhaps the most common cause of acne is excess sebum and dirt in your pores. Clay masks are popular skin cleansers - and for a good reason! The clay helps to draw out impurities that you can easily wash away. Another great benefit of clay is its skin-soothing properties. It’s been shown to reduce inflammation and redness, and has even been used to help treat skin rashes. Adding a clay mask to your routine is an easy way to reduce impurities and clear your skin. 

Cleanse and Soften Hair

In many countries of Central Asia, most notably Iran, clay masks have been used for hundreds of years to soften and moisturize hair. A clay mask is especially useful for oily hair as it absorbs excess oil.

How to Use a Clay Mask 

A clay mask may end up being one of the easiest parts of your skincare routine! 

Step 1. Clean your face with a gentle cleanser and warm water - this will prepare your pores for the best results.

Step 2. Mix your mask, wet ingredients first then add dry ingredients a little at a time using a non-metal spoon (chopsticks work great too!). A clay mask is best applied as a thick paste. Follow our recipe below! If you want to experiment, you could add your favorite natural ingredients like yogurt, banana or avocado for extra moisture.

Step 3. Apply the mask using a mask brush or an applicator. Be careful to avoid sensitive areas, such as the skin around your eyes.

Step 4. Let it dry. Try not to touch it (this is a great excuse to do nothing but relax for 10-30 minutes).

Step 5. Wash with warm water and a washcloth. After you’ve completely removed the clay, rinse your face with cool water, dry, and apply your favorite moisturizer (we highly recommend our Superfood Beauty Oil)!

Ready for the goods? Here’s our tried and true recipe for a Montmorillonite clay mask that will cleanse your face, extract impurities, and leave you with plump, moisturized skin:

INSERT RECIPE

2 tsp. montmorillonite clay 

¼ tsp. Manuka honey or locally grown honey is always best

Add enough distilled or filtered water to make a paste (aloe vera is great too)

½ tsp of activated charcoal (optional – for extra deep cleansing)

Always Pure, Always Natural.

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