Sometimes using a clay mask can cause purging - when the pores are so blocked that all of the debris comes to the surface, causing acne to appear worse. But this will only be temporary and within a few weeks, your skin should become clearer.
If you develop breakouts from wearing a mask, you're not alone. This condition, known as ``maskne'' (mask acne), is a common side effect of using a mask. Maskne doesn't simply cause pimples, though. It may also result in skin issues including redness, bumpiness, and irritation.
``Wearing masks overnight that aren't created for that can over-process the skin. For example, wearing a clay mask for too long can dry out the skin since it sets and hardens before removal,'' said Kierstin.
According to Dr. Saedi, clay masks help absorb excess oils and debris from your skin. “They can help unclog pores, which helps prevent acne and pimples, but may not physically remove acne and pimples,” she says. They can, however, address redness and inflammation, which can help minimize the appearance of acne.
In the skincare world, you'll see kaolin clay as the headlining ingredient in clay masks because of its ability to absorb oil. This oil-absorbing quality makes kaolin clay masks one of the best solutions for clogged pores.
Mud and clay masks
Mud and clay can be used 2-3 times per week for 15 minutes but generally once a week does the trick. These masks draw out impurities and oil from your skin but overuse can lead to stripping your skin. Be careful not to leave these masks on for too long as they can irritate those with sensitive skin.
Sometimes using a clay mask can cause purging - when the pores are so blocked that all of the debris comes to the surface, causing acne to appear worse. But this will only be temporary and within a few weeks, your skin should become clearer.
Bentonite clay's ability to draw out pore-clogging dirt and debris and may also help congested skin appear cleansed and refreshed. As such, you'll find bentonite clay in skincare formulas specifically aimed at reducing the appearance of pores and blackheads.
They work by soaking up pore-clogging elements sitting on the surface of your skin. As the mask dries, you can feel your face tighten as it soaks up oils and draws impurities to the surface.
Appearance. The blemishes caused by purging are usually smaller, come to a head quicker and heal faster. Breakouts, however, can vary widely in appearance, including blackheads, whiteheads, deeper cystic spots or hormonal acne along the jawline. They might heal slowly and can range in size and severity.
Luckily, clay masks draw excess oil, dead skin and debris from your pores, keeping them squeaky clean while minimizing their appearance. You'll notice that when the clay mask begins to harden, dark spots begin forming on the mask, which is a sign that the clay is absorbing impurities from your pores.
During the previous severe acute respiratory syndrome pandemic of 2002-2004, adverse skin reactions to N95 masks were reported after prolonged use. These adverse skin reactions included acne, facial itch, contact urticaria, and contact dermatitis.
Clay masks, particularly kaolin and bentonite, are effective for absorbing excess oil and unclogging pores, making them beneficial for acne-prone skin. It's essential to choose the right type of clay mask based on your skin type and avoid leaving it on for too long to prevent skin irritation.
Be sure to drink ample water when consuming bentonite clay. Pregnant or nursing women and older adults should avoid bentonite. Bentonite should not be taken two hours before or after medication or nutritional supplements.
Blackhead treatment and removal
One such ingredient is salicylic acid. This gentle exfoliating ingredient helps dissolve the excess oil and skin cells that cause clogged pores in the first place. Salicylic acid can be found in a range of products such as face washes, toners, and other acne treatments.
Shrinks pores: Bentonite clay has astringent properties; it tightens the skin and can temporarily minimize the appearance of pores. It reduces pores long-term by unclogging them and removing excess oil from the skin.
Optional: Apply BHA.
This is an optional but recommended step to make the most out of your clay mask. Oil-soluble BHAs like salicylic acid and betaine salicylate penetrate your skin to further dissolve oil and loosen up all the other impurities clogging up your pores.
Skin purging is said to last 4-6 weeks, however, everyone's skin is different (2). This is only temporary and will eventually subside as your skin adjusts to the new treatment. In the meantime, it is important to cleanse gently and avoid picking at your skin, as this can cause further irritation.
Masks cause acne by blocking pores and irritating the skin, leading to inflammation and skin breakdown. You can prevent mask acne with a few simple steps, like keeping your skin moisturized and using cotton masks. Regular hydration and corticosteroids for inflammation can help to treat mask acne.
No, clays are powerful absorbents but they cannot remove an existing blackhead. They can suck out all the dirt, oil and dead skin cells blocking the pore. They also keep oil production under control. Regular use of clay masks detoxifies our skin and keeps our pores clean that prevents blackheads.
Purging subsides within 4-6 weeks as the skin adjusts. Allergic Reaction: Presents as red, itchy bumps, hives, or swelling. These symptoms persist or worsen until you stop using the product. If you suspect an allergic reaction, discontinue the product immediately and consult a dermatologist.
Clay masks on the market are often formulated for oily skin types. With these masks, severely dry skin may experience uncomfortable tightness and flaking after using a clay treatment. Sensitive skin may be left with redness, especially if the mask dries completely and must be scrubbed away.
Don't apply the moisturizer immediately after washing off the face mask. Give the active ingredients some time to get fully absorbed by the skin. Take a dollop of moisturizer, warm it between your fingers to help it penetrate deeper, and then massage into the skin using upward motions.