Red clay is one of several types in the world and has this colour because of the high concentration of iron and copper.
It is precise because of this composition that it differs from the others, allowing it to soften expression lines and leave the skin softer and firmer since iron improves cell respiration and stimulates collagen production.
When used as a face mask, this clay removes oil from the face, heals and prevents acne and is ideal for sensitive skin, as it cleans gently and does not cause irritation.
What’s up? Looking forward to testing it? Keep reading because we have separated what science says about this treatment and three ways to use red clay on your skin and hair!
Table of Contents
After all, what is red clay for?
Red clay is formed by minerals such as iron, copper and chromium, as well as reasonable amounts of iron, copper and potassium oxides—also traces of magnesium and sodium. The result of this mixture is a rich composition for cosmetic and therapeutic use.
Smooth expression lines and firm up the skin
Red clay has tensile properties thanks to the presence of iron and copper oxides.
It stimulates the skin to stretch, making it smoother and firmer. This reduces the appearance of fine lines and sagging.
Iron promotes blood circulation and cell respiration, stimulating the renewal of the components that make up the skin. In particular, collagen, a protein that gives strength and firmness, is essential to keep skin younger and more beautiful.
Decrease fluid retention and swelling.
Another use of red clay is to improve blood circulation. The process can reduce fluid retention, as it stimulates the movement of what is accumulated in the body, reducing swelling caused by the problem.
This is because it is fragile and can penetrate the body, which is why it is used as a complement to lymphatic drainage.
Relieve the pain of rheumatism.
The mineral can stimulate joint functioning, removing stiffness and relieving the classic pain of rheumatism, a chronic inflammatory disease.
Furthermore, the trace elements present are absorbed by the skin and promote an anti-inflammatory action.
Decrease hair loss and dandruff.
Did you know that you can also use red clay in your hair? When applied directly to the scalp, it can eliminate chemical residues, sebum, dead cells and skin pollution. All of this promotes a deep cleaning and unblocking of hair follicles.
By stimulating blood circulation, it can also improve local oxygenation and activate the growth process of new hairs.
These two actions make treatments for falling and fighting dandruff more effective.
When used with white clay, red clay provides antiseptic and healing effects, thus reducing the itchiness that dandruff causes on the scalp.
Treat acne
People who suffer from acne not only can but should use red clay. This mineral cleans the skin of toxins, exerts robust oil control, and has bactericidal and anti-inflammatory properties.
These properties make it able to unclog pores and prevent the accumulation of sebum, which causes acne, in addition to stimulating healing.
Relieve Rosacea Symptoms
Finally, the red clay face mask can be used to reduce the symptoms of rosacea, a skin disease caused by a chronic inflammatory process that dilates the veins and causes an increase in blood flow, which is why its main symptoms are redness, the appearance of lesions, pain and greater sensitivity of the affected area.
The control of the disease happens because of the minerals that make up this clay, which can control the amount of blood that passes through the vessels in the face, the part that is usually most affected by the problem.
With this, it is possible to control the local inflammatory process, reducing symptoms while promoting gentle cleansing and hydration of the skin.
How to use it?
In the face
To prepare the face mask, put half a tablespoon of red clay in a plastic container, add mineral or filtered water, saline solution, calendula, or chamomile tea, and mix well until you get a smooth and easy-to-use paste. To spread.
Once that’s done, apply a skinny layer on the face with your fingers or a brush, wait for it to dry and wash your face with cold water.
At the time of removal, you can gently make circular movements, exfoliating the skin. Finish off with an excellent facial moisturizer. This mask can be used weekly.
Attention: Avoid using metal instruments when preparing and handling the mask, as minerals can react with this material. Always use plastic or glass utensils.
On body
For body clay therapy, which uses the mineral for therapeutic purposes, you must place the clay necessary to cover the entire region where it will be applied.
Add filtered water or some tea with anti-inflammatory properties until it forms a creamy, smooth paste. For pain relief, you can heat the chosen liquid before mixing.
Please apply to the affected area, even with your hands, wait for it to dry and wash everything with cold water. Some treatments use clay therapy two to three times a week, but it is always important to look for a professional in herbal medicine to assess your need.
In hair
The preparation method is the same, mix the red clay with filtered water until you have a very smooth and soft paste.
Use a brush to apply this mask through the scalp, without rubbing so as not to damage the strands with friction, and wait about 10 minutes. After this time, rinse well, wash and finish your hair as usual.
The treatment can be done every 15 days and combined with essential oils or extra virgin vegetables to maximize the effects.
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.