Green clay for the face - product properties, mask recipes (including for acne) + reviews

Green clay for the face has its own name - illite. This clay is mined in the French city of Brittany from a depth of 10–15 m and is therefore especially rich in microelements. It is considered an environmentally friendly product, since these deposits appeared in the post-glacial period. The use of green clay is possible for different types of facial skin. It solves a variety of problems and has no contraindications.

Useful properties of green clay

This type of clay is formed on the seabed and is extracted from under water, so it is thoroughly dried in the sun, after which it is ground into powder. It is in this form that you can find pure green clay in stores.

Green clay is used in cosmetology for a reason, because this particular type includes the richest substances and minerals that are beneficial to the human body:

Magnesium
Calcium
Phosphorus
Cobalt
Silicon
Zinc
Iron oxides
Silver
Molybdenum

The composition is often influenced by the origin of the rock and the place of its extraction - the percentage of substances may differ, but their presence remains undeniable. The substance has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, can cleanse toxins and mitigate the harmful effects of the environment.

Mineral composition and effect on the skin

Green clay is a complex of trace elements and minerals. It contains the following elements and connections:

silicon dioxide;
phosphorus;
silver;
zinc;
copper;
magnesium;
calcium;
aluminum;
manganese.

Each of the elements has unique properties and contributes to the antitoxic and antibacterial capabilities of the powder. They are responsible for reducing the level of inflammatory processes on the face.

Due to its rich elemental composition, green clay is considered one of the most productive when used and the most healing. A unique combination of nutrients is a source of youth and attractiveness.

Green clay has a medicinal and preventive effect on the skin in two ways.

Dries out oily skin. The unique properties of clay - the ability to absorb sweat gland secretions and excess sebum - give this effect.
Cleanses the epidermis, eliminating dead cells from its surface layer. Relieves the face from peeling, redness and blemishes.

It is important to know!
Based on its natural capabilities, green clay perfectly tightens the pores on the face and tones, so it shows its best effect on oily skin.

Allergy to green clay

Before using green clay, experts advise testing the epidermis for possible allergies - spread a pinch of the product on your wrist or elbow and wait about half an hour. This is necessary so that the benefits do not turn into harmful effects due to an allergic reaction.

An allergy can be caused not so much by the clay itself, but by the components of a mask purchased in a store. Therefore, if you have a reaction, you should consult a specialist.

The absence of redness and burning makes it possible to carry out cosmetic procedures.

Healing Possibilities

The healing properties of green clay appear depending on the source of the problem.

The use of masks based on it has positive effects.

Cleanses pores on the facial skin and tightens them.
Restores and normalizes the hydrobalance of the skin on the face.
Normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands and the level of skin tone.
Improves blood circulation processes.
Smoothes out fine wrinkles.
Promotes the regeneration process at the cellular level.
It has a rejuvenating effect: the skin tightens, becomes smooth and elastic.

How to use green clay correctly

The range of uses for clay is incredibly wide - from external masks to internal use, from wraps to entire baths.

Face masks

The most effective method of use is application to the skin of the face. Green clay masks accelerate blood flow to skin tissues, improve metabolism, increase tone and nourish. When using green cosmetic clay as a face mask, follow these recommendations:

The ingredients for the mask are mixed in any non-metallic container.
The finished mask is not stored, so it is used immediately.
The skin must first be cleaned of cosmetics and surface contaminants.
After removing the mask, apply moisturizer to the skin.
The mask exposure time is usually 15-20 minutes; this period must not be violated, otherwise the skin will dry out.
Regularity of procedures is the key to success.

Hair masks

In this case, green clay is often used with additional ingredients - it all depends on the desired effect. Such procedures help to cope with unruly hair and excessive oiliness of the scalp, but are also suitable for those with dry ends.

It is also used to restore hair growth and strengthen the roots, and will also be useful for those who struggle with dandruff. The principle of application is similar to the previous one.

The mask is mixed in a non-metallic container.
Apply thoroughly to the scalp and along the entire length of the hair.
After application, wrap hair in a plastic bag or cling film, as well as a towel.
Do not violate the time of holding the mask (usually 15-20 minutes).
After the time has passed, rinse your hair thoroughly; you can complete the procedure by applying hair balm to the length.
Regularity of procedures is the key to success.

Wraps

Thanks to its absorbent and lymphatic drainage properties, clay smoothes the surface of the skin and also effectively fights cellulite or other unevenness. The wrap helps beneficial substances penetrate into the deeper layers of the epidermis, due to which the anti-cellulite effect is achieved.

The ingredients are mixed in a non-metallic container.
Apply to problem areas of the skin.
Carefully wrap with cling film (the main thing is not to overdo it and not to overtighten, disrupting the blood flow).
The body is wrapped in a warm towel or blanket.
After washing off the clay, apply a nourishing cream.

Baths with green clay

In spa centers and sanatoriums you can often find services for carrying out procedures using whole clay baths. This is unlikely to be reproduced at home - you will need a large amount of pure breed.

However, it is possible to take a bath with clay diluted in water. This water will soften the skin and remove accumulated toxins.

It is necessary to dissolve 100-150 grams of powder in water prepared for bathing.
For effectiveness, you can add orange or sea buckthorn, or any other essential oil.
The water should be at a temperature of 40-50 degrees.
You should stay in the bath for no more than 20 minutes.
After the procedures, take a shower.

Oral use

In addition to its appearance, this type of cosmetic breed has a beneficial effect on the internal microflora of the body. Due to its anti-inflammatory and absorbent properties, clay acts like activated carbon and even stronger. Removes toxins, helps in the fight against acne and eczema.

To use green clay internally, you must first stir 1 tsp. per 100 ml of water, stir and leave for 12 hours. Drink without stirring on an empty stomach, preferably in the morning, then the effect will be better. The course lasts about a month with the next break of 3 months.

Benefits of green clay for the face

Green clay contains various microelements, which have a healing effect on the skin, allowing it to be used in cosmetology. Among such components, magnesium (regulates metabolic processes), zinc (normalizes impaired functioning of the sebaceous glands), silver (has antibacterial properties), manganese (provides protective properties), silicon (prevents aging), cobalt (rejuvenates cells) and copper ( relieves irritation and inflammation). Due to such a rich natural composition, the use of clay is possible for a variety of skin problems. We recommend trying an unusual caviar mask to rejuvenate your skin and get rid of wrinkles.

Its effect on the skin is as follows:

It is an adsorbent that pulls out impurities from the pores, and therefore is indispensable for oily facial skin;
Tightens pores;
Quickly relieves inflammation and irritation;
Has antibacterial properties;
Activates metabolic processes, regenerates the skin, excellent for dry skin;
Fights wrinkles;
Tightens the skin;
Tones, increases turgor.

Basic rules for making masks from green clay:

In order for clay to be beneficial for facial skin, you need to remember the basic rules.

To dilute the clay, use cool water or a decoction of herbs. You can add mineral water without gas. Avoid making the mixture too thick as it will dry out quickly. A thin layer also dries out quickly enough, without having time to saturate the skin with beneficial microelements.
Masks should only be prepared in glass, ceramic or enamel containers. In metal, the active components of the clay react with the metal.
Do not apply a mask around the eyes and mouth.
It is convenient to apply the mask at home using a thick, hard brush.
After applying the mask, be sure to lie down so that the heavy clay does not stretch the skin.

Contraindications for using green clay

As already mentioned, before carrying out procedures with green clay, you need to conduct an allergy test. However, this is not the only subtlety in the use of this rock. Here are the cases in which the use of clay is contraindicated:

Skin diseases . In case of severe inflammation and irritation on the surface of the skin, the use of masks should be postponed until remission.
Wounds and burns . Getting clay into open wounds can cause inflammation or pus. Therefore, it is necessary to heal any damage before the procedures.
Allergy . Everything is simple here. If there is even a slight reaction, you should stop the procedure and consult a specialist doctor.
Unpleasant sensations . Burning and pinching are not the best signs during procedures. This reaction may be due to excessive sensitivity of the skin or the proximity of blood vessels. The mask must be washed off immediately to avoid any negative effects.
Ingestion is prohibited for pregnant and lactating women . Even if you risk using clay internally, it is unknown how this may affect the baby, so doctors advise not to experiment with procedures during pregnancy.

Contraindications and possible harm

Green clay used for cosmetic purposes is practically harmless. However, it should be used with caution by people suffering from allergies, people with sensitive skin, and those with rosacea (dilated blood vessels on the face).

Please note that allergies, itching, peeling and other individual facial reactions can be caused by other components contained in clay-based masks. If you have any doubts, consult a professional esthetician. He will help you choose a recipe that is suitable for your skin.

Recipes for face masks with green clay

Anti acne

Dilute 5-10 grams of clay in warm water
Add a few drops of rosemary oil to the clay powder
Apply directly to problem areas

Cleansing

Dilute 24 grams of clay in warm water
Grate the cucumber on a fine grater
Add 5 grams of yeast
Apply to facial skin

For dry skin

With grape seed oil

1 tablespoon green clay
2 tablespoons white clay
Dilute the clay and add 1 teaspoon of grape seed oil

With sea buckthorn oil

Dilute 2 tablespoons of green clay
Add egg yolk
2 teaspoons sea buckthorn oil

For oily skin

Dilute 20 grams of clay in chamomile decoction
Apply the composition brought to jelly density to the skin of the face.
After the procedure, apply lotion

Rejuvenating

Bring cream (1/4 cup) to a boil and pour onto cabbage leaves, leave to cool
Place a cabbage leaf soaked in cream, 1 egg white and 1 tbsp in a blender. spoon of clay powder, beat until pureed
Apply the composition and leave for about 15-20 minutes
Rinse off with a napkin soaked in rosehip infusion

Methods of application

Green clay with water

The simplest recipe. You just need to take the clay powder and dilute it in a small container with warm boiled water (you can take mineral cosmetic water or thermal water). The consistency should be convenient for application (the main thing is that the clay does not form lumps and does not flow down the face from a large amount of water).

After half an hour, rinse off the mask with warm running water.

With cucumber (cleansing + toning)

Green clay itself has a tonic effect for the skin, but when combined with cucumber, the effect is enhanced.

Take a quarter of a cucumber and squeeze out the juice. Add juice to clay diluted with water. It is recommended to perform all steps approximately simultaneously so that the juice remains as fresh as possible. Add a little dry yeast (on the tip of a knife). Mix.

You need to keep the mask for 15 minutes, then rinse off.

With sour cream, banana and honey (rejuvenation)

Prepare good sour cream, the naturalness of which you are sure of. The same goes for honey. Literally any type of honey will do.

Take clay. Dilute it with a little water, add a little mashed banana, a teaspoon of honey and a teaspoon of sour cream. Apply the mask for 15 minutes, rinse with warm running water.

With egg and soda (anti-acne)

Take two tablespoons of green clay, mix with half a teaspoon of soda. Next, beat in the egg yolk, previously separated from the white, and add two tablespoons of water. Apply the resulting mixture to your face for 20 minutes. The mask should be done at least twice a week.

The mask helps against acne in the following way: the yolk and soda help dry the skin, and the green clay itself disinfects it. This mask is also recommended for acne prevention for people with oily skin.

With chamomile (calming effect)

Mix one and a half tablespoons of chamomile decoction with a mixture of clay and water (standard – one and a half tablespoons of clay). Leave for 15-20 minutes.

Hair mask recipes

Mask with milk

1 tablespoon clay powder
Milk must be preheated to 40-50 degrees
Add 1 tablespoon of milk and sea buckthorn oil to the clay.
Beat the yolk of 1 egg and add to the mixture as well.
Apply the composition to the hair and scalp, wrap with cling film and leave for 20 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly with warm water and apply balm.

Apple cider vinegar mask

2 table. spoons of clay powder
1 table. apple spoon vinegar
The composition is rubbed into the scalp (eliminates greasiness)
The procedure takes 20 minutes
After the time has passed, rinse your hair with warm water.

Frequency of use of cosmetic clay masks

Masks containing cosmetic clay are used as often as the facial skin requires.

Those with a certain type of skin can use green clay:

for oily skin - 2 times a week;
for combined and normal - once a week;
for dry and fading skin - 2 times a month.

We should not forget that it is necessary to use masks based on green powder wisely. With more frequent use, the skin will experience moisture deficiency.

Wrap recipes

Before starting the wrapping procedure, you need to take a shower and treat your skin with a soft scrub - this will help open the pores. The main thing is not to overdo it, because then redness and wounds may occur, and the mask cannot be applied until they heal. The recipe is as follows:

Mix a sufficient amount of clay powder with warm water in a non-metallic bowl.
Heat in a water bath to a temperature of 40-50 degrees
Apply the mixture to problem areas and wrap with cling film in 3-4 layers
When applying the composition to areas of the body, it is enough to wear warm, thick clothing. If it covers the whole body, cover yourself with a blanket or a warm large towel.
After 40-60 minutes, unwind the film and wash off the clay with warm water
Apply cream or oil to skin

Rules for using natural cosmetic material

When using this method to transform your appearance, you need to adhere to some simple rules that will help you succeed and not harm your health.

The mass is applied to a previously cleaned and dry surface.
The mass is applied to the entire surface of the skin, except for the area around the eyes and lips, special attention is paid to the areas: chin, nose, forehead.
The mixture should be kept for no more than a quarter of an hour, and it should be washed off with water at room temperature.
After rinsing, apply cream according to the type of epidermis.

Facial masks are used for many problems, and a large number of ways to prepare them at home have been invented. In this article we will look at several of the most popular ways to use this component: for acne, to rejuvenate a aging face, to tone up.

For acne. This method not only dries out inflammation, but also has a healing effect, so for those who have acne scars that persist for a long time, this remedy is perfect. To prepare it, you need to take about 3 grams. Basics and a little water, add 1 drop of rosemary oil to the mixture, mix until the consistency of thick porridge. Apply the mixture pointwise to inflammation and red spots. Leave for a quarter of an hour, then rinse thoroughly.
Mask with a rejuvenating effect. Mix a little of the main component with water. Stir well, apply to the entire surface and leave until the applied layer is completely dry, then rinse with water and moisturize with cream.
For a fading face. Pour boiling water over a pre-washed cabbage leaf and place it on the bottom of a deep plate, pour in hot milk and leave for an hour, then mash the leaf to a pulp, add the base and a little mineral water, mix, apply and leave for a quarter of an hour, rinse.
Toning. A couple of drops of bergamot essential oil, 5 g. jojoba oil and 10 gr. Mix the base thoroughly, apply, wait 10 minutes, rinse.

Thus, the use of natural resources in cosmetology is completely justified, since they have a powerful anti-aging, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effect, can relieve various problems that cause trouble for the fair sex, in addition, they contain a record number of beneficial properties that have a beneficial effect on the condition of the entire body.

With their systematic use, blood circulation improves, wrinkles become less noticeable, pigmentation, swelling and redness disappear, and they are replaced by a smooth surface of the face, mesmerizing with its blush and velvety feel.

It is important to understand that the body needs care regularly, and not from time to time, so make it a rule to take care of yourself systematically, following all the rules and using cosmetics in accordance with your age characteristics.

Reviews on the use of green clay

You can find many positive reviews on clay masks, because this is actually a surprisingly effective remedy. On forums you can often find detailed comments and reviews from customers:

“I bought a mask in the form of a powder with silver particles. Silver disinfects and eliminates redness. Very cool mask!”
“Now you can easily buy a ready-made mask and not bother with it. For me, homemade masks are much more effective than store-bought ones. I know my skin type and add the necessary ingredients necessary for my skin, and such masks are natural without any chemicals.”
“An effective remedy against dandruff for me was table salt and clay, namely salt peeling, which I alternated with a green clay mask. Only in combination did all this give a positive result, the dandruff went away.”
“I did a facial cleansing in the fall and there was no trace of acne left, but red marks appeared after the procedure. They didn't clean anything. Then I came across a simple recipe for a mask with green clay. And a miracle! The result was noticeable after just 2 applications.”

Tips for use

In order for green clay masks to truly be healing and eliminate skin problems, it is necessary to properly prepare before the procedure.

Before using the prepared product directly, it is necessary to check the sensitivity of the skin to the composition. To do this, apply a little mask to the elbow. In the absence of any allergic reaction, you can safely give beauty and youth to your skin.
To mix the components of the mask, use only a ceramic or glass container.
The prepared composition must be used immediately, otherwise it will dry out and become unusable.
The mask is applied only to cleansed facial skin.
While applying the mask, avoid sensitive areas: eye area, lips.
The standard exposure of the mask on the face is 15-20 minutes. If the recipe does not indicate this, you should adhere to this time period. The mask on dry skin is kept for 5 minutes less.
After washing off the mask from your face, apply your favorite cream to your skin.