Of all clay therapy products, green clay is the most suitable for making a facial mask capable of cleaning the skin. In an exfoliation with this natural ingredient, you kiss the dreaded acne and pimples goodbye.
But it is not only on the skin that she fights oiliness since her performance also covers the hair, ending dandruff. In the body, the treatment can be beneficial even for cellulite.
According to dermatologist Jackeline Ferreira Mota, green clay is also used to ease dark circles and puffiness in the eyes from sleepless nights. However, even with all these benefits, knowing how to use it is necessary, as each part of the body has its specificities.
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What is green clay, and what is it for?
The dermatology professional explains that this clay has silicon, iron and aluminum in its chemical composition and a neutral pH. This means that it “has a ‘drying’ agent, which reduces the skin’s oiliness and dries out acne if the user has it, in addition to the detoxifying, toning and astringent (renewing the skin) effect.”
It has other benefits, such as reducing measures, combating edema and tissue nutrition when applied to the body. Jackeline Ferreira also advises using directly to cellulite, as the treatment can fight these localized fats.
Other actions are: “softens the cuticles and protects the nails, removes any pain you may have in a certain region, solves the problem of swelling in the eyes, irritation and tiredness during sleep, and combats Seborrheic Dermatitis of the scalp,” says the dermatologist.
Last but not least, green clay has a healing action. Therefore, in addition to relieving pain, it reduces the inflammatory process and stimulates collagen and elastin.
How to use it?
Generally speaking, you should mix one tablespoon of clay and one or two tablespoons of water, making them a paste. With this content, you can add other natural ingredients according to the purpose of the treatment or use it anyway.
But the dermatologist remembers that there are precautions before and after application. “Always wash your face beforehand and never apply to the eye area, as the skin is more delicate. Use the shovel or spoon that always accompanies such masks, especially when it is not a single dose, avoiding contamination with impurities for the next applications”, he recommends.
Once applied, let it dry for 15 minutes and wash it off with cold water and a facial sponge. Also, according to Jackeline Ferreira, the skin on the face may become red, as the reaction is related to the astringent effect.
In the end, it is recommended to “apply thermal water or micellar water all over the face. If you plan to relax and sleep, a moisturizer will do. If following [the treatment], there is a commitment, apply a moisturizer and sunscreen or cream already with this combination if you go to an open place. Or a foundation according to your skin before providing the makeup”.
Facial mask
To have a natural remedy against acne inflammation, the beautician, Lívia Rocha, recommends a face mask recipe in the e-book called “The Secrets of Clays.” Replacing the water with tea with fungicidal and bactericidal actions is necessary.
Dilute one part clay to two parts rosemary or clove tea until it forms a smooth, even paste. Apply the final content to the area to be treated, avoiding the eyelids. Leave to act for 10 to 30 minutes and remove with cold running water.
Another recipe, this time for those who want to rejuvenate their skin, combines clay therapy with essential oils. In a clean container, mix a spoon (tablespoon) full of green clay and water until it becomes doughy. Then add one drop of frankincense essential oil and one drop of palmarosa. Apply to face and leave for 20 minutes, removing with cold water.
Treat dark circles
As the eyes are more sensitive regions, the dermatologist recommends applying a clean gauze moistened with clay, water and tea. The infusion can be one of those mentioned above.
Injuries and pain in the body
The combination of white and green clay makes an excellent treatment for wounds and pain. Both are anti-inflammatory, but the first is moisturizing, and the second has healing action.
To enjoy these benefits, mix a tablespoon of each type of clay and add water gradually until a smooth, homogeneous paste is formed. Apply the mixture to the affected areas and let it dry. Then wash it with running water.
Against cellulite
Prepare the clay as taught at the beginning of this topic, just with water. Then add two drops of geranium essential oil which also acts against cellulite. Then apply a thick layer on the region you want to treat. Once dry, remove with cold water.
In the hair
Only green clay with water is enough to clean the scalp, but it is essential to emphasize that this treatment should be done only at the root and not be applied along the length of the hair.
Curiosities about green clay
We have separated five of the main doubts about clay-based treatment. Follow the answers!
1. Where to find it?
The green type is one of the most used and a little more expensive than the others. Pharmacies, supermarkets, open markets and stores specializing in natural products are the points of sale for this mineral.
2. Is this product valid?
Like any product, clay is valid and lasts 1 to 3 years. For this reason, always check the information on the packaging.
3. How often a week should you apply green clay to your face?
“You can do it two or three times a week, but not on subsequent days, leave an interval between each application,” recommends dermatologist Jackeline Ferreira.
4. Are there contraindications and side effects?
The treatment is contraindicated for people with acute acne and must have medical advice. There is a minimal probability of side effects occurring, only in cases where this product is abused.
5. What are the differences between this and other clays?
As we have seen, green clay is indicated to reduce skin oiliness, controlling the appearance of acne. In addition, it can reduce measures and treat dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. It can also be used to treat cellulite, pain, and injuries. The other types have different benefits that the dermatology professional highlighted. Check out:
- Yellow: therapeutic and relaxing use
- Red: increases hydration (skin moisture) and eliminates contaminants and pesticides
- White: widely used in aesthetic treatments
- Pink: excellent for sensitive skin
- Beige: regulates the skin’s sebum production without dehydrating
- Black: rejuvenates the skin with its energizing action caused by metals, bringing well-being.
My name is Ellie Lauderdale, MD and I am USA based professional Nutritionist .
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and board certified specialist in sports dietetics who is trained in integrative medicine. I have worked with hundreds of clients, from those suffering with chronic disease to professional and olympian athletes. My goal is to help optimize you from the inside so that you can feel, perform, and look your best on the outside.