Green Clay Face Mask With Kelp

Spa clays have been rediscovered as a popular treatment for many different health, beauty, and skin care conditions. Clay has been used by indigenous cultures around the world as an important medicinal and cosmetic tool. Mountain Rose Herbs writes that clays are used externally to absorb excess oil, dirt, and toxins from the skin while simultaneously exfoliating and improving skin circulation. Some clays, such as Bentonite clay, are primarily ingested for medicinal purposes such as detoxification or mineral deficiencies. Other clays, such as French Green clay and Rhassoul clay, are used externally for skin conditions and for cosmetic purposes. Clays come in a variety of colors such as red, green, white, gray, and can range in texture from coarse and heavy to fine and fluffy. The different colors of clays occur because of their natural mineral content.

Note, this information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This blog post is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Skin is highly porous and will absorb anything that is applied to it, so by applying spa clays, your skin will absorb minerals and nutrients. At the same time, the clay is withdrawing toxins.

The color in green clay comes from the silica content which is the most important mineral for the skin. Clays with high iron content tend to be red.

Clay's properties and effects:

• Rich in minerals and active enzymes
• Stimulates lymph circulation and thereby more efficient waste handling and improvement of cell nutrients
• Stimulates blood circulation
• Draws toxins and superfluous fat from the skin
• Contracts and tones the skin
• Strengthens the connective tissue

Therapeutic benefits:

• Poor blood circulation
• Poor lymph circulation
• Sunburn and general burn damage to skin
• Irritated and sensitive scalp
• Personal hygiene
• Refresh tired and "washed out" skin
• Saggy or loose skin
• Acne and other skin conditions
• Relaxation and enjoyment\

Clay Facial Mask Recipe

Ingredients:
2-3 oz. cosmetic clay (purchased at your local health food store)

1-2 oz. powdered kelp
1 Tbsp aloe vera gel
Water, milk, yogurt, or hydrosol
1-2 drops essential oil

Directions:

1. Mix the powdered ingredients to make 4 oz. of dry clay facial and store in a 4 oz. jar. 
2. Clay facial masks should not be stored pre-mixed with water or any other wetting agent. 
3. To use, add approximately 1/2 oz. of the dry clay facial blend to a small glass bowl (NOT metal). Mix enough warm water, milk, yogurt or hydrosol to make a paste. Add 1-2 drops of essential oil such as peppermint, lavender, geranium or sandalwood. Apply to the skin in a gentle, circular motion, and allow the mask to dry for about 15-20 minutes. If your skin feels too tight or uncomfortable, shorten the duration to 5 minutes. Wash off with warm water. 
4. If the skin feels tight, a light oil can be applied. Experiment with other wetting agents. Cucumber puree cools the skin, yogurt cools and softens the skin, and milk removes dead skin cells and softens the skin.