How to Properly Use a Clay Mask at Home

Clay masks are a simple yet powerful tool in skincare. They deeply cleanse the skin, tighten pores, regulate oiliness, and refresh the face. However, to get the most benefit, it’s important to know how to use them properly. Read on Joy-pup to learn how to use a clay mask correctly at home.

Which clay to choose? Types and properties

Not all clays are the same. Each has its own features and should be chosen based on your skin type. Select clay according to your skin’s needs. You can either buy a ready-made clay mask or powdered clay to mix with water until it reaches the consistency of sour cream.

• White clay is the gentlest and most delicate. It is ideal for sensitive, dry, and normal skin. It gently cleanses, soothes, and slightly dries out inflammations.
• Blue clay is considered universal. It tones, improves skin elasticity, and enriches it with minerals. Suitable for normal, combination, and mature skin.
• Green clay has strong absorbent properties. It is the best choice for oily, combination, and problem skin prone to acne. It deeply cleanses pores, mattifies, and combats inflammation.
• Red clay is rich in iron oxide. It improves blood circulation, reduces redness and irritation. Suitable for dry, sensitive skin prone to couperose.
• Pink clay combines gentle cleansing and soothing effects. Suitable for normal, dry, sensitive, and mature skin.
• Black clay effectively removes toxins and deeply cleanses pores. Recommended for oily, combination, and normal skin.

How to Apply a Clay Mask to Your Face: Step-by-Step Guide

Use the mask 1–2 times a week (for oily skin) or less often (for dry and normal skin), depending on your skin’s condition. To get the maximum benefit, follow these simple rules:

Cleansing

Before applying a clay mask, be sure to cleanse your face. This is essential for the skin to fully absorb the beneficial properties of the mask. Dust, dirt, oil, and makeup residue that accumulate on the skin can block the mask’s action, preventing it from effectively cleansing pores and removing excess oil.

Rinsing

Rinse your face with warm (not hot!) water. This helps open the pores slightly so the clay can work more effectively.

Applying the Mask

Then you can proceed to apply the clay mask. For convenience, use a brush to ensure even distribution and help reach difficult areas such as around the nose. Additionally, a brush minimizes hand-to-face contact, reducing the chance of irritation or bacteria transfer.

Duration

The optimal time to leave the mask on is 10–15 minutes. Do not wait for the mask to completely dry and crack. As soon as the clay begins to dry (usually visible around the edges), it’s time to rinse it off. If the mask dries completely, it starts drawing moisture from your skin, leading to dryness, tightness, and irritation.

Rinsing Off

Gently wash off the mask with plenty of cool or lukewarm water. Cool water helps close the cleansed pores. You can use your hands or a soft damp cloth/sponge, but don’t rub your skin too hard.

Moisturizing

The final touch is moisturizing. Clay is a natural absorbent — it not only removes dirt and oil but can also slightly dry out the skin. So, after the mask, be sure to apply your favorite moisturizer or serum. This step is essential for all skin types, including oily skin, to restore water balance and avoid tightness.

Read also: How to get rid of puffy eyes in the morning.