Written by Kate Tietje
I made noises about this recipe on Facebook quite a few times. The amount of times I’ve found myself down to the wire with no clay in hand is why I keep Earthley’s. Even though I love that premade option, there’s nothing more satisfying than having your own clay and making my own beauty care products at home.
Bentonite clay is an excellent detoxifier, both internally and externally. (I have yet to try it internally, but I’m told you can mix 1 teaspoon into an 8-oz. glass of water and drink it. This may be a good idea for those suffering from diarrhea, stomach viruses, or internal parasites.) The clay absorbs all of the “junk” in your system or on your skin and holds onto it so that when it goes through or gets washed off, you’re left cleaner and healthier. You can toss 1/2 cup of it in the bathtub for a nice detox bath. I did that right after making my mask. Pretty cool, no?
Clay Facial Mask
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp. clay
- 2 – 3 tbsp. water
I know — a little clay, a lot of water. But this clay absorbs so much that, trust me, you’ll need it. I originally mixed up 4 times this much (1/4 cup of clay), and I think it would have been enough for six people. Start with the tiny amount because it makes a lot.
Directions:
Step 1: Measure your clay (remember, less than I did).
Step 2: Add this to a small bowl. I have an old plastic dish I don’t use for food anymore. This is a great use for it!
Step 3: Now, you can infuse your water with something if you’d like. You can add a teaspoon of calendula flowers, comfrey, rosemary, or lavender (there are other choices, but these are excellent options) and make a “tea” out of it before going to the next step. It’s not necessary, and I didn’t have time to do it this time. But all you have to do is boil the water, let the herb steep for 10 – 15 minutes, strain it, and use this “tea” instead of plain water.
Step 4: Keep adding and stirring until you eventually get a paste. It will be extremely thick and sort of “gummy.” That’s okay.
Step 5: Now it’s ready to spread on your face. Wet your skin with very warm water, then smear it on, avoiding your eyes and mouth. Just for you, I took a picture of me wearing the mask!
Step 6: Let it sit for 10 – 15 minutes until dry. Then, use very warm water to wash it off (this takes a while). Follow by washing your face, ideally with oil cleansing. Repeat about once a week.
If you use facial masks, which ones are your favorite?
How did it work out putting it in your bathtub? I heard that you don’t want the clay to go down the drain. You are to wipe it out and throw it away. Is this true? Does the clay stick to you that you will have to shower it off after your bath? I keep wanting to try this but sounds so messy. Thanks.
It works out okay, but it does leave quite a mess behind. I will have to wipe it out later. I didn’t add enough that it actually stuck to me, so I didn’t need to shower off after (but my husband said he did before, so I guess it depends). It is pretty messy but we’ve noticed that it helps, so…I think it’s worth it on occasion.
Where did you get your clay from? I’ve looked into it a little, but have yet to order anything.
Hi Deanna, I bought mine from Mountain Rose Herbs. They had the best price that I saw and I know I looked at a few different places. I bought a 5-lb. bag so I could have plenty for multiple uses. A little does go a long way, though!
I LOVE clay masks! My skin feels so smooth. I also keep some in a small container with me because it is great for bug bites, cuts, stings, to stop bleeding(actually the dry is better for that). We use it in baths, brush our teeth with it, put it on cavities, drink it as well. We only use Living Clay brand for the purity of the brand. I also do spa nights with the clay and essential oils~ we do facials and the ladies love it!
Just wanted to add that you are supposed to keep and use this in a glass container. The clay pulls toxins from your body and from plastic also if stored or used with it.
That right. No plastic or metal.
You can mix a bunch in a wide mouth jar, better to keep in the fridge if for consuming.
I found it is easier to add clay to a jar with some ice cubes & water at the bottom, add few more ice cubes & little more water to about 3/4 full, close the lid, let sit for several minutes, then shake it vigorously. Shake again & again once in a while. Store & shake before pouring out what you need. Hardly any lump.
I mix it with psyllium husk, some citrus flavor & lots of water & drink it every morning. Be sure NOT to drink it within 1 or 2 hrs before or after food or med.
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