I have a new addiction. It's become part of my night time ritual. It helps me unwind and feel pampered. The addiction: Clay Masks!!
Why use a clay mask?
So many reasons....they clean and exfoliate skin. Ridding your pores of excess oil, they're fantastic for acne prone skin. They moisturize and soften skin. If used regularly, they have been known to decrease the size of your pores. They stimulate blood circulation. They make for fantastic Instagram selfies.
How in the world do you use them?
A clay mask has three stages.
The damp phase: when you first apply the mask your skin absorbs the beneficial minerals.
Start of the dry phase: this is when the mask stimulates blood flow as it cools and contracts.
The Dry Phase: when the mask draws moisture out of your skin causing irritation and dehydration. You never want to allow your mask to dry until its its flaky. It's best to let it dry until your skin feels tight. Know that there may still be a few sticky spots. That's ok! Much better to remove it before your skin becomes irritated and dry.
Mask Application:
Step One
Start with cleansed skin. If you have a way to steam your face, please do so. A quick and easy way: soak a washcloth in HOT water, ring it out and allow it to sit on your face for 1-5 minutes. This helps to open up your pores so the mask can deepky clean your pores.
Step Two
Prepare the mask. Have your mask ready, a small bowl for mixing. A teaspoon. Your activator of choice and a brush for application and mixing.
Step Three
Combine your activator with your dry mask. Measure 2 tsp of clay mask to 1 tsp of activator. You may need more or less activator depending on what you use. Add your activator into the dry clay mask a little at a time to achieve a thin paste consistentcy.
Your activator can be any of these liquids: Milk, Yogurt, Purified Water, Honey, Avocado, Cream, Citrus Juices, Your Toner, Floral Waters.
Step Four
Using a brush or your fingers, spread the mask over your face and neck. I love using a brush. It feels very relaxing and applies a nice even amount over my skin. It may not look like enough but I assure you, it's more than enough to cover your face and neck. (I'm using my hand in the pictures below because the world is just not ready to see me in a mask...yet)
Step Five
Allow the mask to dry. Don't let it get to the dry, flaky stage. The drying process can take anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes.
Step Six
Remove the mask. Soak a washcloth in HOT water and ring out most of the water. Set the washcloth on your face and mask for 1 to 3 minutes. Wipe away with the washcloth and warm water. Pat dry. Apply your serum then moisturizer if needed.
I hope you try one of these beauties for yourself and enjoy them as much as I do! It really is the best part of my day to treat myself to a clay mask.
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