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Before there werebenzoyl peroxidecreams andsalicylic acid-spiked cleansers to help pimples wither away, there wasbentonite clay.
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You don’t have to look hard to find it.
Bentonite clay is something you might get at your local drugstore, beauty supply, or health food shop.
Perhaps the best-known kind of bentonite clay comes from the brandAztec Secret.
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“World’s most powerful facial,” the label boasts.
But how does it work?
And is there really solid science underpinning its big skin-clarifying promises?
What is bentonite clay and how does it work?
It’s also known asMontmorillonite clay, named after the region it’s found in France.
Bentonite clay carries a negative electrical charge that attracts impurities.
When it makes contact with your skin, the clay undergoes a textural change.
How does bentonite clay benefit skin?
Its antioxidant minerals (known as phyllosilicates) and anti-inflammatory properties calm angry breakouts, Dr. Turner adds.
Also cool: it temporarily tightens pores, leaving skin feeling like it’s been shrink-wrapped.
Your skin isn’t a great toxin-purging agent anyway.
“The only detoxifying organs in the body are the liver and kidneys,” Zeichner explains.
How should you use bentonite clay in your beauty routine?
In lieu of a spa facial, you might purchase straight-up bentonite clay powder and create your own mask.
Dr. Zeichner is a fan of the classicAztec Secret Indian Healing Clay, and for good reason.
But as cosmetic chemistRandy Schuellerpreviously toldAllure, it’s not that big of a deal.
“This is simply not true.
“Bentonite clay has an alkaline pH,” King says.
It also keeps the skin’s pH at a normal 5.5.”
“Pre-mixed products have more consistent formulas and may offer more reliable results,” he says.
All of these also double as spot treatments.
Meanwhile, Dr. Zeichner recommends theSimple Purifying Pink Clay Mask, which additionally includes calamine to soothe.
That one is pretty hard to find, but you might also try theM-61 PowerSpot Mask.
“While wet, the bentonite clay starts to calm and soak up oil,” explains Dr. Zeichner.
What about using bentonite clay for hair?
“Its anti-inflammatory properties may help with some scalp dermatitis and flaking.
Plus, its high mineral content conditions the scalp skin and hair follicles.”
Then leave the mask to sit for 20 minutes.
Bentonite clay can also be used as a substitute for clarifying shampoos to draw out residue and buildup.
A bentonite clay treatment could be considered a good alternative."
Another place bentonite clay crops up is in styling products.
“It’s great for adding texture and hold to the hair,” says King.
Are there any risks associated with using bentonite clay topically?
If you go the DIY route, be sure to buy your clay from trusted companies.
Check out theFDA’s website, too, as it calls out brands that are potentially harmful.
That said, all of the experts we spoke to agree that bentonite clay is generally well-tolerated.
There’s just one catch: bentonite clay can be a moisture-zapper.
“Also steer clear of acids or retinoids to help prevent irritation.”
Learn more about these common skin-care ingredients:
Now, watch Patrick Starrr’sEuphoria-inspired makeup routine:
