Are all clays ok for sensitive skin?

Clay has been used for centuries for its healing and detoxification powers, and it’s now a common ingredient in beauty treatments.

But which clay is best for sensitive skin? Look no further than this quick guide to the most common clays.

Bentonite

Bentonite is said to have electric properties. When mixed with water, its molecules become charged and draw impurities out of the skin and into the clay – just like a magnet.

This makes it a popular ingredient in products for acne and congestion, but it tightens on the skin, which can feel too harsh and dry on sensitive complexions.

Kaolin

This fine clay comes in rainbow of colours, from white to pink, and is considered one of the mildest clays. Less absorptive, and with a finely milled texture, it doesn’t over-dry or tighten on the skin as much as other types of clay.

We use white kaolin in both our Copaiba Deep Cleanse AHA Mask and Rosehip BioRegenerate Rapid Radiance Mask – to gently lift away impurities and rebalance oil, while allowing other ingredients to deeply nourish and hydrate.

French Clay

Sometimes called ‘Sea Clay’, the green colour of French Clay comes from the decomposed plant material and iron oxide. 

Highly absorbent, French Clay is a popular choice for very oily skin. It pulls blood towards the surface of the skin, boosting circulation and creating a tingling sensation that may be too stimulating for some sensitive skins.

Rhassoul Clay

This red clay is mined in Morocco and is traditionally used on both the skin and hair.

Rhassoul clay is negatively charged, so helps to pull any positively charged toxins, including excess oil and blackheads, away from the skin.

Although very thick, this clay is less drying and leaves the skin feeling comfortable and soft. 

Fuller’s earth clay

Fuller’s Earth has an incredible power to absorb – it’s even used in cat litter and car products to absorb oil spills!

Its absorbent capabilities mean it often crops up in the ingredients of products for oily skin and hyperpigmentation (it has mild bleaching properties), but we think it’s a little too drying and best avoided by delicate skin types.