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.
It is generally recommended to do clay face masks (acne/oily skin) no more than twice a week. Doing them more often can irritate and dry out the skin, leading to further issues. It is best to consult with a dermatologist to determine the optimal frequency of use for your particular skin type and situation.
``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.
A clay face mask tends to remove oils and water from your skin, so using clay after your strong actives can mean dry, flaky skin. Certain clay products may be too drying for skin, leaving the skin barrier compromised as there are no lipids left to protect it.
Clay is a fantastic alternative to acid exfoliants and harsh cleansers as it does not disrupt the skin barrier and its delicate microbiome. Clay masks gently cleanse, decongest pores and exfoliate skin in a healthy and balanced manner.
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.
Using a sheet mask every day can help boost your skin's hydration levels, as leaving the mask on the face for a certain period helps push the ingredients into the skin. By using a sheet mask daily, you can enjoy the same result as using a super-powered moisturizer every day.
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.
Don't use drying ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, clay, or sulfur. Acne spot treatments could have helped before you popped your pimple, but they're no longer beneficial once your skin is broken.
They can be used at any time of the day. However, if you're using a mask that exfoliates or clarifies your skin, then it's best to use that at night. But if you're using one that hydrates the skin, then you should apply it in the morning to give your skin an added glow.
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.
By absorbing excess oil and tightening the skin's surface, clay masks can visibly reduce the appearance of pores, leaving the skin texture smooth and mattified.
While many Koreans incorporate face masks into their skincare routines, the frequency of use can vary widely. Some may use face masks daily, while others might apply them less frequently based on their skin's specific needs, seasonal changes, and particular skincare goals.
Bentonite clay is a natural tooth polisher - Bentonite is a very fine powder that polishes enamel without being harmfully abrasive. The particles gently polish the teeth which is what leaves them feeling super clean.
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.
Can you over-mask? Yes! Over-masking is a real thing and as such, you need to be careful of how often you're reaching for a skincare mask. Overusing certain masks can disrupt your skin barrier and as a result, cause, inflammation and redness, irritation, breakouts or dryness [2].
You do not need to apply a clay mask every day. Instead, use it once or twice a week to see results and minimize side effects like skin irritation.
Combine 1 teaspoon of honey + 2 teaspoons of milk + 1 teaspoon of cocoa powder into a bowl and mix (the milk and honey serve as the base, and Dr. Robinson shares that you'll want to add "just enough cocoa powder to give it a thick enough consistency to spread on your face") Leave the mask on for 15 minutes.
Bentonite clay is made from volcanic ash. It has high oil-absorbing qualities that make it a great choice for people with acne-prone and oily skin types. This clay pulls the dirt and grime out of the skin and has anti-bacterial properties too. It also tightens the skin and reduces swelling.
Your Skin Feels Cleaner and Fresher
One of the immediate signs that a clay mask is working is the sensation of clean, refreshed skin. After rinsing off the mask, your skin should feel smoother, less oily, and thoroughly cleansed.
While clay masks are ideal zit-busting skin rescuers, too much of it could also lead to skin dryness. As such, clay masks should only be used once a week for those with dry or sensitive skin. For oilier skin types, you may choose to use a clay mask twice a week if your skin agrees with it.