Bentonite clay: I brush my teeth with it, use it as a deodorant, and have even washed my hair with it. This simple clay has gained popularity for many reasons. Some people love it for its natural origin. Others appreciate it for skin, health issues, and promoting overall well-being.
Clay has been used for centuries to promote healthy skin, remove toxins, and provide essential minerals. However, bentonite clay is distinguished from kaolin, rhassoul, and other clays by its potent detoxifying properties. Bentonite clay is also excellent for promoting healthy skin.
What is bentonite clay?
Bentonite clay is essentially volcanic ash that has been exposed to water. The name “bentonite” refers to Fort Benton, Wyoming, the largest known source of bentonite clay. It is also called montmorillonite clay, after the region in France where it was first discovered.
Calcium bentonite clay is the type used for skin care and other health benefits. When the ash is exposed to water for a while, it turns into bentonite clay. Bentonite is known for its ability to generate negative ions, which plays a role in its detoxifying effect and other health benefits.
Bentonite clay can promote healthy skin in several ways due to its unique properties:
- Removes dirt and impurities: Fine clay particles can penetrate deep into pores, drawing out dirt, dead skin cells, heavy metals, pesticides, and other pollutants. Removing these toxins helps maintain clear skin.
- Acne Treatment: Bentonite’s ability to absorb excess sebum (oil) and unclog pores makes it an excellent remedy for pimples. It can help reduce the frequency and severity of breakouts. It can even be used to remove blackheads.
- Exfoliation: When used as a mask or scrub, bentonite clay gently exfoliates the skin, removing dead cells and promoting a smoother, more radiant complexion.
- Skin nutrition: Silica, magnesium and other minerals present in bentonite clay help nourish the skin, promoting cell regeneration and repair.
- Firming and firming: Bentonite clay can help tighten and firm the skin, giving it a more youthful appearance. It can also help reduce the appearance of pores.
- It can improve skin tone: Regular use of bentonite clay can help improve skin tone and texture. As a result, the skin can look healthier and more even.
- Soothing irritation: The anti-inflammatory properties of bentonite clay can help soothe irritated skin and reduce blemishes. It can help treat eczema, diaper rash, and other types of dermatitis.
- Wound healing: Applying bentonite clay to minor cuts, scrapes, and insect bites can help remove toxins, reduce inflammation, and speed up the healing process.
Bentonite clay is something you’ll always find in my medicine cabinet and bathroom. It’s used in a variety of skin care products. You’ll find it in soaps, toothpaste, hair care products, face masks, cleansers, sunscreens, and more.
Ways to use bentonite clay for skin
Bentonite clay can be used in a variety of ways to enhance the beauty of your skin. Here are some ideas and recipes:
Facial soap
Because of its ability to draw out impurities, bentonite clay works well as a natural cleanser, especially for acne-prone skin. For that reason, it is often used in soaps and facial cleansers. I like to make this homemade charcoal and clay facial soap.
Face masks
Bentonite clay masks can help with oily skin. They are also very soothing and a great form of self-care. Here are some homemade recipes:
Bentonite clay is also an excellent ingredient in natural cosmetic recipes.
Make up
You can experiment by adding bentonite clay powder to these homemade cosmetics:
Bentonite clay can also help beautify your smile.
Dental care
Bentonite is an excellent ingredient for preparing toothpastes and powders. Here are two recipes you can try:
Why limit yourself to facial beauty? Bentonite has been used for thousands of years in Iran for hair care.
Hair care
Hair detox? Of course! This bentonite clay hair mask can help remove buildup from hair products or hard water. I find it leaves my hair lighter and shinier, with lots of volume.
Bentonite clay can also help soften calluses and remove toxins from your feet. Here’s a relaxing detoxifying foot bath using bentonite clay and Epsom salt. Bentonite doesn’t just create a spa-like experience. It’s also good for treating skin irritations and injuries.
First aid kit
Bentonite clay is a great addition to your first aid kit or medicine cabinet. Anti-itch cream is very helpful for poison ivy and insect bites. Herbal poultice helps draw out toxins and splinters.
Possible side effects
Avoid inhaling bentonite clay dust, as it can cause breathing problems. It’s never a good idea to inhale any type of powder into your lungs. Mix it with liquid in a well-ventilated area. If your skin becomes irritated or excessively dry, don’t use it as often. You can also mix the clay with more soothing ingredients. Stop using it if irritation persists.
If you have sensitive skin, dilute the clay mixture with more water or use a gentle base like aloe vera gel instead of water. If you have dry skin, it’s probably a good idea to use bentonite clay less frequently. When you do use it, mix it with moisturizing ingredients like honey or yogurt to prevent excessive dryness.
Security: Who can use it?
Bentonite clay is generally considered safe to use on the skin during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, internal use of bentonite clay should be done with caution when pregnant or caring for a baby.
Allergic reactions are not common, but they can happen. Do a skin test on a small area of your skin before using it on your face. The inside of your forearm is a good place to test. Simply mix the clay with a little warm water and apply it to a small area. Wait several hours to make sure you don’t have any reactions.
Conclusion on bentonite clay for skin
Bentonite clay can be a great addition to your skincare routine. How often you use it will depend on your skin type. If you have oily skin, you may want to use it more often. If you have dry skin, you may want to use it less often to maintain hydration.
Some of my favorite ways to use bentonite for skin are in soap form or as a deep cleansing mask. You can get good quality bentonite clay here.
Do you use bentonite clay as part of your skincare routine? What is your favorite way to use it? Share it below!
