Hi,
When you go to a spa, which I don't do, it can get very expensive and at times, you actually don't know why or what they're using on you. Take the clays for instance. There are several and some are less expensive than others. Also, one must know the "right" type to use for your skin type; if not, you won't get the best benefits from it. Here are the different clays that I use and what their propertys are, as well as how you use them and on one, how often. Also, the skin types they're each used for.
Bentonite Clay
Bentonite clay is sedimentary clay composed of weathered and aged volcanic ash that is mixed with montmorillonite clay or French Green Clay. (also mined in the USA, then the montmorillonite is added)
It's mined in a quarry and is called a "swelling" clay, because when it's mixed with water, it swells up. It is actually a volcanic ash clay, that's been used for many years for skin care products, face masks for oily skin, to draw out toxins and as a bath spa clay.
Face - Three parts water to One part Bentonite clay. For the face, then gently smooth it on, let dry, rinse off and very gently pat your skin dry.
Shaving Soap - One T to a pound of soap.
This clay can also be used in small amounts for an oily scalp and hair. Make sure to wash it all out!
Rhassoul Clay
This is a Spa quality clay from ancient deposits unearthed from the fertile Atlas mountains of Morocco. Rhassoul is a mineral rich, reddish/brown clay that blends extremely well with water making its application to the face and skin a smooth great skin-toning experience.
The best Spas across the globe utilize the toning and enriching benefits of this clay. High in Silica, Magnesium, Iron, Calcium, Potassium and Sodium content, this clay is surely one of the finest treasures for the pampering of your skin.
Mix for face a One to One ratio of clay to water - sometimes more water is needed, you'll know by the consistency - add a little at a time. Spread over face and let dry, then rinse off and pat dry gently.
Clay, Pink
This is a clay from France. It is a mild clay that can and is used on normal to dry skin for exfoliation and also to cleanse your skin. Mix with water, a little bit at a time, until you form a paste. Spread on face and let dry. Gently rinse and also gently pat dry, do not rub. This is the clay to use, other than Kaolin, for normal to dry skin, to aid in cleansing and exfoliation, without damage to your skin. This clay is a beautiful pink color, probably the prettiest clay I have and if mixed lightly with arrowroot powder, can actually make a light blush powder or even a facial powder. No water is used when you do that.
Kaolin Clay (also called White, China White and White Cosmetic)
The most versatile and easily applied clay that is commonly found in skincare preparations and cosmetics. This is a fine, nicely textured clay that has natural absorbency properties and is frequently found in powders, body packs, skin care products, and deodorants. It is also good for face masks if your skin is not oily, mix with water at a one-to-one ratio and add more water if needed. Put on face as a paste, let dry, and gently rinse off and gently pat dry.
This clay does not "pull" oils from the skin, so is all right to use on dry skin as well, for cleansing and exfoliating.
French Green Clay
French Green Clay has enormous absorbent powers due to it's having micro molecules. It literally "drinks in" oils, toxic substances, and impurities from your skin. Its toning action stimulates the skin bringing fresh blood to damaged skin and revitalizes your complexion while tightening pores. French Green Clay is very good for helping to clear problem skin. Use it daily and apply onto trouble spots and allow to dry for 15-20 minutes. Mined from bedrock quarries in France, it is completely natural, unscented and fragrance free. Rinse off gently when dried on your face and pat dry. It is also called montmorillonite clay. Limit use to once per week.
Fuller’s Earth Clay
This is a sedimentary clay that is good for very oily skin but can also lighten your skin, and is a good clay to use for that purpose. It has been called a facial bleach.
Because of its enormous drawing capabilities Fullers Earth is the number one choice for oily skin and those prone to acne. It literally draws oil from the skin and has been used industrially for this exact purpose. Also works nicely as a bulk ingredient for skin clay recipes. Personally, I would mix this one with a bit of the other not-so-drawing clays, such as French Pink and Kaolin. Straight - do not use more than once per week.
If you want to do this for a gift, it's usually really appreciated, take an ounce jar and put the loose clay in it, while typing out the properties and instructions for a clay mask, different and unique :)
mn - 2007
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Comments: 18
Somebody slap me!
Ok, the clays except for the fullers earth can be bought at http://www.essentialwholesale.com - do a search for clay. If a pound seems too expensive think of it this way - get one, try it and use a couple of teaspoons at a time - that clay will last you a good long while.
The one I bought locally was from my herbalist and it was kaolin and she had one heck of a good price on it - it was under $2.00 for a pound! Sure wish I'd bought more as she probably has none left. Generally, the clays are going to be between $6.00 - $12.00 per pound, depending on the website and also take a look at their other products and see what they're going for, if they're expensive, the clay will be as well.
The other place where you can buy a few ounces to try out, would be your local herbal shop or even a health store as the clays and I didn't include this as the article isn't about it, but they're edible, for different things, though I don't ingest them. Ugh. LOL
Massage? Sure, but massage oils are so easy to make at home and I've done massages many times at home, though you can't do one on yourself, find someone who can :) Literally saves a bundle.
I make a lot of my own products....nice!