Did you know that not all clays are created equal? All clays have their own composition of minerals, and benefits unique to each specific clay which is why there is such a variety used in the natural skincare community!
In addition to the skin-loving benefits of clays, such as oil absorption, exfoliation, and purification, clays have been used for centuries for various suggested healing properties including being used by Ancient Egyptians for managing inflammation and infection, and by other "notable doctors of the ancient civilizations" for common health conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and circulatory disorders (source).
Our favourite go-to clays are:
White clay (INCI: Kaolin) - is known to be the gentlest clay on the skin, while absorbing excess oil and impurities. Kaolin clay is also commonly used for its ability to gently exfoliate the skin, supporting cellular turnover by removing dead skin cells.
French Green clay (INCI: Illite) - also has absorption qualities that attract oils and impurities to itself, leaving the skin feeling clean and purified. French green clay is ideal for acne-prone and oily skin types.
French Pink clay (INCI: Illite/Kaolin) - mild clay with absorption qualities, commonly used for sensitive and mature skin. French pink clay is composed of a combination of white (kaolin) clay and red illite (or French red clay) and is known to improve skin elasticity, even out skin tone, and minimize pores among MANY other benefits.
Glacial clay (INCI: Sea Silt) - a uniquely Canadian clay, Glacial clay has both detoxifying and hydrating qualities among many others that makes this a particularly fascinating clay to work with! More to come on this one later!
For more information on these clays, check out the sources listed below.
Can't wait to bring more to The Ingredient Series soon!
- Chelsey
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