DIY Detoxifying Face Mask

Detox your skin post Christmas by using an all-natural DIY face mask for a fresh and clarified complexion.

Bentonite clay is the perfect ingredient for an effective homemade purifying facial. It draws out toxins, impurities and chemicals from the skin due to its high mineral content, including magnesium, quartz, silica, iron, calcium, calcite and dolomite.

Bentonite clay is made from the weathering of volcanic ash sediments with water so it is 100% natural. Also known as “healing clay” it has absorbent properties and can remove excess oil from the skin making it a powerful detoxifier to unclog pores and also exfoliates the skin.

The clay is highly charged with negative ions and acts like a magnet when it is activated, attracting positively charged ions to it and absorbing them. This is how it physically pulls out any impurities from the skin and removes them by absorbing it like a sponge. The powder becomes activated when mixed with liquid like oil or water.

Ingredients for the DIY face mask:

  • 2 teaspoons of bentonite clay powder
  • 2 teaspoons of water
  • Non-metallic spoon
  • Small glass bowl or cup
  • 3 drops of essential oils e.g. tea tree for acne prone skin, lavender for all skin types (optional)

It is important to not use metal utensils with this clay! Doing this will reduce its effectiveness.

Instructions:

Start with freshly cleansed skin and pat dry.
Put the powder in the bowl and mix in the water to make a paste, smoothing out any big lumps with the spoon. You can add a few drops of essential oil at this point if you wish.
Apply the paste evenly onto your face, avoiding the eye area, and leave on for 5-10 minutes.
Wash off the mask with warm water before it fully dries or starts to crack. Pat face dry.

Make sure you don’t allow the mask to fully dry on your face (where it starts to crack) as it will draw out too much natural moisture and may leave skin dehydrated after. The time it takes for the mask to dry will vary due to different skin types. I wash mine off after 7 minutes when I see the dry patches forming and it goes lighter in colour. The results? Noticeably clearer, smooth skin with refined pores.

Bentonite clay can be used as a weekly DIY face mask and is super cheap, quick and easy to use. This mask is completely non-toxic and suitable for all skin types. Natural beauty at its best!