Ask the Expert: How Do Clay Masks Actually Work?

Clay masks are trending, and it’s not just because they make for great selfie opps on social media. Masks formulated with clay offer a wide range of skin benefits, including removing impurities and reducing the appearance of large pores. Benefits aside, clay masks are also incredibly easy to use. All you have to do is apply one to your face, allow it to sit there (and—in most cases—harden) before rinsing off. The whole process usually takes under 20 minutes, which has us asking ourselves (or the experts, rather): how do clay masks actually work, and much do they really do for our skin? Read on for the answers!

THE BENEFITS OF CLAY MASKS 

Arguably, the principle benefit of clay masks is that they can detoxify the skin, while reducing excess oil, and kicking pore-clogging impurities to the curb. As a result, clay masks are a favorite among oily and acne-prone skin types, though all skin types can enjoy them. 

But before you start grouping all clay masks in one group, keep in mind that not all are formulas created equal. For starters, clay masks can feature different clays, or a variation of clays, which can offer different results due to their various compositions of minerals. Popular picks for skin care include kaolin and bentonite, though the list goes on and on. While the results of each clay mask out there can vary, there are a few clay mask benefits that remain universal: 

Benefit #1: They can help draw out impurities.

From pollution to dirt and grime, your skin comes in contact with quite a few aggressors on a daily basis. Daily cleansing can help eliminate these skin invaders well, but clay masks—used a few times per week—can up the ante and ensure a clean canvas. Why is a clean canvas so important? Because when impurities, dirt and bacteria linger on the skin for too long, they can wreak havoc in the form of a dulled complexion or breakouts. Just be sure to follow with moisturizer to hydrate your skin post-mask.

Benefit #2: They can eliminate excess shine.

Oily skin types can relate to the ever-present struggle of a shiny, greasy-looking complexion. To help mattify the look of your skin, board-certified dermatologist and Skincare.com consultant Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali recommends a routine application of a clay mask. “They’re great at absorbing oils and other impurities that can clog pores,” Dr. Bhanusali says. “Kaolin is an important ingredient to be on the lookout for.” Kaolin—also known as white clay–is the mildest of clays and works to draw out oils without being harsh on the skin. You’ll find this ingredient formulated in many masks on the market, including L’Oreal Paris’ range of Pure-Clay Masks. There are five clay masks in total, all of which are formulated with a blend of kaolin, montmorillonite, and Moroccan lava clays, as well as one unique ingredient.

Benefit #3: They are calming.

Nothing against expensive spa days (let’s face it: we all could use one during periods of high stress), but part of the beauty of face masks in general is their ability to transform an otherwise mundane skin routine into an at-home spa day. Not just because they give you an excuse to kick up your feet while they get to work, but also because of their calming benefits. New York-based dermatologist, and Skincare.com consultant, Dr. Joshua Zeichner explains, “Clay has both skin calming and oil-absorbing properties, making it useful both for those with sensitive skin, as well as oily or acne-prone skin.” The next time you’re looking to wind down, grab a few chilled cucumber slices for your eyelids, smooth on a clay mask and enjoy the calming benefits all around!