In my experience, clay masks definitely help draw stuff to the surface so some blemishes will come to a head. This only happens with existing blemishes that were just under the surface though, if you find that new breakouts are forming then the mask is most likely breaking you out.
Facial masks themselves do not directly cause breakouts, but certain types can contribute to skin issues if used improperly. For oily skin, clay masks can be beneficial as they absorb excess oil and help minimize pores. However, using masks that are too drying or harsh can irritate the skin and lead to breakouts.
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.
Important Note: A purging phase may occur when using this product during the first few weeks as it pulls toxins out from under the skin. Try to avoid popping or picking at the spots and wait for them to heal naturally. Aztec clay speeds up the healing process as it draws out toxins, dirt, and debris.
“Purging usually follows a predictable duration, typically anywhere from four to six weeks,” Dr. Thiede said. Since purging occurs because your skin is adjusting to a new product, it shouldn't last longer than how long it takes for your skin to renew itself (about 28 days for most people).
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.
Purging often results in whiteheads and small raised red bumps on the skin, known as papules. True breakouts are more likely to induce nodules or cysts - larger, swollen, painful pimples that feel like knots under the skin. Purging usually appears where acne is common, like the forehead, cheeks, and chin.
To incorporate clay masks into a skincare routine, it is recommended to use them once or twice a week, depending on individual skin sensitivity. Overuse may lead to dryness, so it's essential to follow up with a hydrating moisturizer to maintain the skin's balance.
When you come in for a facial and your skin is sensitive, congested/acne, your skin may purge for a couple of weeks after. This is NOT your new forever skin and it will start to clear in about 2 weeks after your facial.
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.
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.
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.
Your skin's pH levels become compromised. Foaming washes bring the skin's pH to 8-10. Most facial and body soaps are also 8-11, including castille soap coming in at an 11. A cleanser or product containing a high pH could lead to symptoms like dryness, inflammation, and acne.
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.
A good clay mask can help reduce and absorb excess oil which is great at helping to mattify acne/oily skin types and can also kick pore-clogging impurities to the curb via a deep and thorough cleanse. Plus, when you pop on a clay mask weekly it can even help prevent mild forms of acne.
To start, wash your face with a gentle cleanser, then pat it dry using a soft towel. Next, wait for 30 minutes and take a close look at your skin in the mirror. If your skin appears shiny all over, you likely have oily skin. Flaky, rough, or tight-feeling skin signals that you have dry skin.
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. This is a sign that the mask has effectively removed impurities and excess oil from your pores.
Skin purging looks like: Red bumps on skin and accompanying facial redness. Breakouts and blemishes dotted along where you've applied the chemical exfoliant or retinoid product to your skin. Dryness and flaking can appear alongside bumps and breakouts.
Your body can gradually break down pus and reabsorb its components. That's why small accumulations of pus (like in a pimple) often don't need treatment.
Drink lots of water. After a shower (the steam assists greatly in the drawing-out process), take a clean face cloth or a thick cotton pad and dip it into a sink of hot but not-too-hot-to-touch water. Hold this compress on the pimple for as long as possible. Re-dip in the water when it cools down.
It's tempting, but popping or squeezing a pimple won't necessarily get rid of the problem. Squeezing can push bacteria and pus deeper into the skin, which might cause more swelling and redness. Squeezing also can lead to scabs and might leave you with permanent pits or scars.