When mineral-rich rocks undergo natural weathering over hundreds of years, they create a fine-grained material known as natural clay. Cosmetic clays have been used in nearly all ancient and traditional beauty regimens for millennia due to their beneficial properties and applications for various skin types. The earliest known use of cosmetic clay, often referred to as "medicinal earth," dates back to the Stone Age when early humans, such as Homo erectus and Homo neanderthalensis, utilized it. Experts believe using clay was inspired by ancient ancestors observing animals instinctively bathing in mineral-rich mud. These early humans likely mimicked this behavior by using ochre, a natural clay earth pigment, to aid wound healing and soothe irritations.

Over time, cosmetic clays have evolved alongside humanity and remain a significant resource in traditional healing practices, including Ayurveda, ancient Egyptian rituals, and Indigenous American traditions.

Fast forward to today, and cosmetic clays have resurfaced as a popular topic in the beauty community. With a wide array of colors and types of cosmetic clay available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Each clay's natural hue and mineral content reflect the unique composition of minerals found in the soil where it is mined, the weathering it has undergone, the presence of active enzymes or organic matter, and various other complex factors.

While all clays can draw out oil and impurities from the skin, each clay's chemical composition offers distinct benefits. For instance, bentonite clay, composed of volcanic ash, is rich in minerals like magnesium and iron. Its powerful absorbent properties make it an excellent choice for oily or acne-prone skin. In contrast, Rhassoul clay, mined from deep deposits in Morocco, is particularly rich in silica, magnesium, and iron. Though it absorbs oil, Rhassoul clay is milder than bentonite and is better suited for mature, dry, or sensitive skin types.

Throughout history, from 5,000 B.C. to the year 2024, cosmetic clays have demonstrated their value. Today, these clays are essential ingredients in various products, including facial masks, homemade soaps, natural dry shampoos, and even remedies for bee stings. Despite the name "cosmetic clays," they are beneficial for skincare and have a range of practical applications as an excellent natural option for cleaning oily stains from carpets and fabrics.

 

RHASSOUL CLAY

Rhassoul clay is a fine clay mined from ancient deposits found deep within the Atlas Mountains in Morocco. This clay has been used for centuries in traditional natural skincare practices and is the clay of choice at many of the finest spas worldwide due to its therapeutic benefits. While effective at absorbing excess oil from the skin, Rhassoul clay is gentler than other clay varieties and is typically recommended for individuals with sensitive, dry, or mature skin types.
My research led me to Morocco where I visited the Rhassoul clay mine. I secured my source of the purest clay in the world for Vika's Essentials!

 

FRENCH GREEN CLAY  

French green clay gets its name from the first recorded deposits found in France, although it is now commonly found in various locations around the globe. This fine-textured clay acquires its green color from decomposed plant matter. French green clay is ideal for treating occasional blemishes and is recommended for those with normal to oily skin.

 

WHITE COSMETIC CLAY  

White cosmetic clay (known as Kaolin clay) is one of the most versatile and easily applied clays commonly found in standard skincare products and cosmetics. It is considered the mildest cosmetic clay and helps gently stimulate skin circulation while exfoliating and cleansing. White cosmetic clay is commonly recommended for sensitive or dry skin types.

 

BENTONITE CLAY 

Sodium bentonite clay is composed of volcanic ash sediments weathered over a long period. This unique clay is known for its swelling properties, which allow it to act as a highly absorbent sponge when mixed with water. Bentonite clay is a highly regarded cosmetic clay, often recommended for individuals with oily or acne-prone skin.
Certain brands provide bentonite clay for internal detoxification because it is a powerful sorbent.

At Vika's, we love natural clays! We use them in both our Facial Masks and Facial Washes (for dry and for oily skin).

I hope that learning about the benefits of Earth's most uniquely versatile natural resources inspires you to incorporate cosmetic clays into your beauty care regimen and beyond!