Acne Guru

For people who feel strongly that natural treatment is preferable to medicines or chemical treatments for acne problems, natural clay can be the answer.  Natural clay is used in literally every spa in the country, and for good reason.  It has many beneficial properties and is a completely natural material.  As spas, clay treatments can be quite expensive but natural clay can be used at home for a reasonable price.  Many people regularly use clay at home as a natural acne treatment.  Making and using a natural clay mask at home is easy and can be very effective.

The most common types of natural clay used in skin care are Kaolin clay, Bentonite clay, Sea clay, and Rhassoul (red) clay.  Each type of natural clay has slightly different properties, and it is best to try them all to find out which one works best for your skin.  After you have done some experimenting, you may want to mix different kinds of clay together and create your own special blend.  Clay masks are very useful for people with acne and oily skin types.  They are less commonly used by people with dry skin, as clay masks are used to dry the skin as well as clean and detoxify.  The exception to this is Rhassoul clay, which can be used my some people with dry skin and can, in some people, have moisturizing effects.

Natural clays are available at health food stores.  They are generally sold in powder form.  The cost can range from four to eight dollars for a pound of clay powder.  Usually sold in bags, the powder can be poured into a glass jar for mess-free storage.  Natural clay masks work by pulling dirt, oils and toxins out of the skin and into the clay as the clay dries.

To make your own natural acne treatment clay mask, mix equal parts clay and purified water in a glass bowl.  More water can be added if you prefer a thinner consistency, but keep in mind that the more water you add to the mixture, the longer it will take to dry.  Only mix as much clay as you think you’ll use for a single mask because the clay mixture doesn’t keep well.  Once mixed thoroughly, apply in a thin layer to the face and neck, being careful to avoid the eye area.  Leave the mask on until it is completely dry and starts to crack.  Then rinse off gently with lukewarm water and pat face dry.  Natural clay masks can be used 2-3 times a week for people with oily or acne prone skin.

As with all natural acne treatments, natural clay masks may not be appropriate for everyone.  People with dry skin may want to avoid clay masks altogether as they do have a drying effect on the skin.  Some very temporary redness may occur for a few minutes after the mask is removed, but if the redness persists or if any other problems appear, it may be best to discontinue use of the mask and see your healthcare provider if needed.