My First Time Using Bentonite Clay

Picture it - Wisconsin, February 2012 (I said that in my best Sophia Petrillo voice).  It’s a typical brutal WI winter, and I was about 7 months into my quest to go natural with my haircare and skincare.  At the time, the internet was buzzing about bentonite clay, and there was a particular brand that was super popular and was sold on Amazon.

On one of my self-care days, I convinced my two daughters (who were 13 and 15 at the time) to do this clay mask with me, using the popular bentonite clay I procured from Amazon and apple cider vinegar.  

So, everything started out fine, I mixed it well, and after doing a quick cleanse, we applied the mask.  Of course, I made up more than I needed so I decided to do a nice thick layer of the mask.  As it started to dry, I became very uncomfortable. My skin was burning, my face felt like I was turning into Mt. Rushmore and I couldn’t express any of this verbally because it felt like my lips were cemented shut. My girls? The same reaction.  The regret? Instant.  We couldn’t wash it off soon enough.

After washing it off, I used my moisturizer, but still felt the effects of the mask for hours after application (could have been longer, but I honestly don’t remember so we’ll just say hours lol).  I was dealing with burning and irritation, and my moisturizer did not help.

HERE’S WHAT I DIDN’T KNOW….

The particular clay I purchased was not of a good quality, like at all. As a matter of fact, in 2016, the FDA warned consumers not to use that brand because of the high lead levels it contained. You know what they say, popularity doesn’t equate to quality!

Back at that time, I had very dry, sensitive skin.  Winters in Wisconsin will definitely do that to you.  Bentonite clay and apple cider vinegar are NOT recommended for either dry or sensitive skin.

That moisturizer I was applying? Water based!  Being dry/sensitive, I should have opted for a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid, ceramide, or something rich in amino acids. 

Less is more, and reading is fundamental.  If I would have read the directions on  mixing the mask, I wouldn’t have had to make so much, like I do with pancake batter because it’s either too thick or too watery.  I applied way more product to my face than I needed - hence the stoned face, Mt. Rushmore feeling.

I knew nothing about skin pH back then, but do remember my dermatologist mentioning that my skin had more alkaline than the normal pH level, which meant I was already dealing with dryness and irritation.  All in all, this type of mask was just NOT for me.

After that debacle, I never used bentonite clay again.  That was until I really delved into skincare years later and understood when to use it, how to use it and most importantly, where to source quality bentonite clay from.

HERE ARE A FEW SKIN BENEFITS OF BENTONITE CLAY:

Deep Pore Cleansing | Bentonite clay acts like a magnet for dirt, oil, and impurities. It draws toxins out of the skin and helps unclog pores, making it great for acne-prone or congested skin.

Oil Control | It’s especially helpful for oily or combination skin because it absorbs excess sebum without stripping the skin completely dry.

Helps Clear Acne & Breakouts | Thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it can calm inflamed breakouts and reduce the risk of new ones forming.

Gently Exfoliates | When used as a mask, it lightly exfoliates dead skin cells, leaving skin feeling softer and smoother.

Tightens and Tones | As the clay dries, it temporarily tightens the skin, giving a firmer appearance and a refreshed glow.

Boosts Circulation | The drawing action of the clay can increase blood flow to the skin, which helps nourish skin cells and support a healthy, radiant complexion.

These days, my favorite way to use bentonite clay is using it for my hair mask!  I have seborrheic dermatitis and it truly helps with scalp irritation and reduces dandruff for me.  I mix it with aloe vera juice or pure aloe instead of ACV, and I also mix in a bit of rose clay.  Chef’s kiss!

Final reflection: Before you hop on a viral trend, be sure you know what your skin likes/dislikes and needs.  Take an extra step to read/research ingredients and understand what type of reactions they may cause.  Most importantly, DO A PATCH TEST!  

Until next time, “glow” forth and be great!

With love,

Toya