Clay is used as a cosmetic ingredient and a healing agent in Europe as early as the 12th century and even before this by indigenous peoples from around the world. The most familiar use of clay in the modern day is in the form of facial masks, although other uses are also common, such as body wraps, baths and poultices. The term relating to the use of clay is pelotherapy, which is defined as applying peleo, for example mud, peat or clay to all parts of the body for the purpose of healing or rejuvenation. Depending on their various healing or beneficial qualities, numerous types of clay are used.
Clay consists of various mineral compounds rich in silica and aluminum, sometimes including iron, copper, zinc and magnesium, and other trace elements. Aluminum found in clay is very different from the toxic inorganic substance used in commercial deodorants, and therefore is not associated with the same risks. Two key joints form flat layers of the smallest particles, since stones, such as slate and mud stone, are weathered away. Clay layers create a large surface area, which is highly reactive and, due to the connection between silica and aluminum, clay particles contain negatively charged ions. This forms the basis for the properties of the clay, which include 1:
o Adsorption is the ability of clay to push compounds out of the molecule and hold them there. Negatively charged ions in clay attract positively charged ions in pollutants, a magnet-like effect. This property allows clay to bind with toxic substances and microorganisms.
o Absorption is the ability of clay to collect compounds within the molecular structure of clay. Sometime inside the clay, a trap of toxins swells and, among other things, they cannot be released again. The larger the surface area of the clay, the more it is able to attract positively charged particles or toxins. Due to this property, clay can be used to remove toxins from the skin and reduce pus and inflammation from edema, abscesses and cysts.
o Ion exchange is the ability to change the electrical charge of the surface with which the clay contacts. This effect is completely unique, and the contribution to the balancing effect of clay has on the skin.
Individual clays are classified by their layer structure, as well as by various mineral compounds. The various minerals contained in clay make a significant contribution to therapeutic effects. Minerals stimulate many localized skin reactions, such as promoting healing and tissue regeneration, increasing the local immune reactions of the skin, helping to destroy bacteria and eliminate toxins. Mixing clay with water makes it easy to add minerals to the skin.
The skin is an organ of elimination, and therefore so many toxins are released in this way. Glue used outside can be used to help flush and eliminate these toxins. This adds the effect of reducing the overall toxic effects of the body. Clay baths, in particular, can help reduce overall toxicity. The warmth of the bath improves blood circulation in the skin and opens the pores, allowing the clay to work more efficiently. Facial surfaces are useful for localized toxic buildup, such as skin clusters, cysts, and acne.
Along with its cleansing effect, clay can also help improve blood circulation in the skin, which will help cleanse internal toxins, as well as improve the blood supply to the diet. Improving blood circulation will help improve the appearance of the skin. Clay can have an antibacterial effect, destroying bacteria on the surface of the skin, so it is useful for acne, where bacterial growth can contribute to the condition. A high level of minerals in clay, such as zinc and silica, will help provide external nourishment to the skin, promoting healing and regeneration of the skin.
Clay is used to effectively reduce local inflammation and swelling of the skin. This effect is useful in facial masks, as it helps to reduce the hypersensitivity of the skin and secretes impurities that primarily contribute to inflammation. The effect of ion exchange of clay also has a rebalancing effect on skin tissue, promoting cell health.
There are three main types of clay; kaolin, montmorillonite and illite:
Kaolin - gentle in action, this clay is ideal for sensitive skin. It is rich in silica and is useful for treating the healing of scars and damaged tissues.
Monmorillonite - containing a high level of magnesium, a three-layer structure and a weak bond between aluminum dioxide and aluminum, which gives it a greater ability to absorb. For this reason, monmorillonite clay is ideal for detoxification and cleansing.
Illite clay - the presence of potassium ions and high levels of calcium carbonate make this clay ideal for drawing out fluids, cleaning and detoxifying.
Cosmetically different clays are used for different properties. Clays are more or less absorbent, with green being the most absorbent and white less so. More absorbent clays are ideal for cleansing and detoxifying overloaded, acne or acne skin. This will help calm the infection and allow the skin to heal. Less absorbent clays are ideal for smoothing, softening and toning the skin.
Green clay most absorbs all types of clay. Used for facial masks, it emits impurities, cleanses the skin and helps normalize sebum production. It is suitable for all skin types, but is especially useful for fatty skin types and acne prone to acne. Green Clay will also help in tissue repair and soothing inflammation.
Yellow clay is rich in minerals. The yellow clay used in masks helps to improve the condition of fatigue and devitalized skin.
Red clay has a high content of trace elements, especially iron oxide, which gives the clay its red color. Red clay is oily and slightly absorbent to revitalize and improve skin radiance. It is ideal for sensitive skin and skin with capillary damage.
Pink clay contains iron oxide, silica and trace elements. It has a softening and toning effect on the skin, which makes it ideal for all skin types and especially for mature skin. Suitable for all skin types. White clay is the most delicate of all types of clay. White clay is ideal for sensitive, dry and mature skin types.
When using clay for face or body masks, the larger the application, the greater the effect of drawing. With body masks, wrapping body parts over clay will increase circulation and allow clay to penetrate more. After application, allow the clay to dry and wash it as soon as it is discharged. If left to dried, the clay can remove the necessary moisture from the skin, which is usually not the desired effect. Alternatively, spray the clay with plain or floral water when it begins to dry. After removing the clay, toxins are removed from the skin, so avoid the temptation to reuse the clay.
Ingredients mixed with clay can also improve their actions. For example, dry skin, base and essential oils in combination with white clay can have a deeply moisturizing effect. Papaya or kiwi enzymes can help break down dead skin cells, so green clay can work more efficiently for overloaded and acne skins.
Recommendations:
1. Brian Leather. 2007. Pelotherapy 101. Joint adventure
2. Stubbin C. 1999. Do it yourself clean skin skin care. International Center for Holistic Aromatherapy, Brisbane.
