The Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay Mask is a cult skincare product that promises to exhume all the sebum and dirt from your pores. It is made with 100 percent natural calcium bentonite clay, and it claims that you will feel your face "pulsate" as it draws out all of the impurities.
5. Wait 15-20 minutes, or until you literally cannot move your face because the clay has completely hardened. Bentonite clay is like a sponge... when it's wet, it expands. As it dries, it contracts. This means that as your mask dries, it will literally feel like your face is pulsating and being sucked off by the clay.
What are common causes of burning sensation on the face after a face mask? Astringent toners and harsh scrubs. Poorly formulated product that is too strong. Imbalance in the product. The burning/stinging sensation could be a sign that your skin barrier is damaged. Alcohol and tenside derivatives. Botulangericol.
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.
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.
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.
Removing lead and other heavy metals
A 2022 study suggests bentonite clay nanoparticles helped to remove trace elements of residual lead and cadmium from milk. A 2017 review also suggests that bentonite is an effective treatment for metal toxicity in animal models.
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.
We recommend doing a patch test of our clay mask on your chin, leaving on until dry, and removing to ensure you don't have any adverse reactions. Note that a mild tingling sensation can be expected due to the osmotic action of the clay.
Bacteria that cause acne thrive in the humid environment a face mask creates for your skin. Even people who change their masks and use clean surgical masks are having issues with acne. Dr. Liszewski also says that duration of time wearing a mask doesn't directly correlate to acne development.
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.
Leaving the mask on for too long can cause the clay to dry out excessively, leading to discomfort and redness upon removal. We advise you leave the mask on for 10-15 minutes, until the mask is dry in places but tacky in others.
Clay face masks should ideally be left on for no more than 15 minutes; however, you should read the instructions as each can vary. You are at risk of your skin drying out if you leave your clay mask on for too long.
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.
Bentonite clay and its derivates can have highly harmful germs and heavy metals like lead, arsenic, and mercury. You must contact your doctor before you take bentonite clay or any supplement orally, especially if you're pregnant or take other medications.
Some animal studies show bentonite might boost good bacteria in the gut. This may help with taking in nutrients. In humans, bentonite is sometimes used to treat occasional or ongoing diarrhea. One study showed bentonite helped with constipation from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Skin Irritation: One of the most common side effects of leaving bentonite clay on the skin for an extended period is irritation. The hygroscopic nature of bentonite clay can cause it to withdraw moisture from the skin resulting in parchedness, reddening and annoyance with time.
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.
It is important to note that applying water to the face before applying a clay mask is not a must, but it can be beneficial to increase the effectiveness of the mask and also reduce the pulling and tugging sensation on the skin.
Sensitive skin may be left with redness, especially if the mask dries completely and must be scrubbed away. If you leave a clay face mask on for too long, allowing it to dry completely, its oil-absorbing properties can be too effective. Even normal skin types may be stripped of oils and moisture afterwards.
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.
Toner: After rinsing off the mask, apply a gentle toner to help rebalance your skin's pH levels.