the science behind muddy's 5-clay mud mask

bentonite clay - sourced from the use

origin:

  • geographical source: bentonite clay is primarily sourced from volcanic ash in the usa, particularly from the wyoming region.
  • formation: formed from the weathering of volcanic ash in the presence of water.

historical use:

  • used by native americans for centuries as a natural healing and detoxifying agent.
  • historically applied to skin for various ailments, including cuts, burns, and insect bites.

natural benefits:

  • detoxification: bentonite clay has a negative charge, attracting and binding to positively charged toxins and impurities, drawing them out of the skin.
  • oil control: absorbs excess oil, making it ideal for oily and acne-prone skin.
  • healing properties: contains minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron that promote skin health and aid in the healing process.

who has used it:

  • widely used in modern natural skincare products.
  • recommended by dermatologists for its ability to treat acne and other skin conditions.

why it works:

  • excellent for deep cleansing and purifying the skin.
  • helps to reduce inflammation and redness.
  • provides a soothing and calming effect on irritated skin.

kaolin clay - sourced from china

origin:

  • geographical source: kaolin clay is mined from the mineral-rich soil in the jiangxi province of china.
  • formation: composed mainly of the mineral kaolinite, formed from the chemical weathering of rocks in hot, moist climates.

historical use:

  • used in traditional chinese medicine for centuries.
  • ancient chinese women used kaolin clay to create natural face masks for beauty and skin health.

natural benefits:

  • gentle exfoliation: soft texture makes it suitable for sensitive skin, providing gentle exfoliation without irritation.
  • oil absorption: absorbs excess oil while maintaining moisture balance, preventing dryness.
  • soothing properties: reduces skin irritation and inflammation, promoting a healthy complexion.

who has used it:

  • popular in asian beauty rituals and modern skincare formulations.
  • commonly used in porcelain and fine china manufacturing due to its smooth texture.

why it works:

  • ideal for sensitive and dry skin types.
  • helps to brighten the complexion and even out skin tone.
  • provides a soft, smooth texture to the skin.

french green clay - sourced from france

origin:

  • geographical source: sourced from the mineral-rich deposits in the montmorillonite region of france.
  • formation: composed of decomposed plant material and iron oxides, giving it its characteristic green color.

historical use:

  • used in ancient roman and egyptian skincare rituals.
  • applied as a natural remedy for skin and digestive ailments.

natural benefits:

  • detoxification: rich in minerals like magnesium, calcium, potassium, and silica, which help detoxify and rejuvenate the skin.
  • anti-inflammatory: reduces inflammation and redness, making it beneficial for acne-prone skin.
  • firming effect: tightens pores and tones the skin, providing a firm and youthful appearance.

who has used it:

  • popular in european spas and skincare treatments.
  • used by holistic practitioners for its healing properties.

why it works:

  • ideal for oily and combination skin types.
  • helps to clear up acne and other skin impurities.
  • promotes a radiant and firm complexion.

rhassoul clay - sourced from morocco

origin:

  • geographical source: mined from the atlas mountains of morocco.
  • formation: formed from volcanic activity and geothermal processes, rich in minerals and trace elements.

historical use:

  • used for over 1,400 years in moroccan beauty and health rituals.
  • traditionally used in moroccan hammams (public baths) as a cleansing and detoxifying treatment.

natural benefits:

  • deep cleansing: high in silica, magnesium, and potassium, which deeply cleanse and nourish the skin.
  • exfoliation: gently exfoliates dead skin cells, revealing a brighter complexion.
  • moisturizing: helps to balance natural oils and retain moisture, preventing dryness.

who has used it:

  • a staple in traditional moroccan skincare routines.
  • utilized by moroccan women for hair and skin treatments.

why it works:

  • suitable for all skin types, particularly sensitive and dry skin.
  • promotes smooth, hydrated, and radiant skin.
  • helps to improve skin elasticity and reduce flakiness.

dead sea clay - sourced from israel

origin:

  • geographical source: harvested from the shores of the dead sea, located between israel and jordan.
  • formation: rich in unique minerals due to the high salinity and mineral content of the dead sea.

historical use:

  • used since ancient times by egyptians, romans, and greeks for therapeutic and cosmetic purposes.
  • cleopatra was known to use dead sea mud as part of her beauty regimen.

natural benefits:

  • mineral rich: contains a high concentration of minerals such as magnesium, calcium, potassium, and iron, which rejuvenate and nourish the skin.
  • healing properties: known for its healing and anti-inflammatory properties, beneficial for skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema.
  • detoxifying: draws out impurities and toxins, leaving the skin clean and refreshed.

who has used it:

  • favored by ancient royalty and modern-day celebrities for its skin-enhancing properties.
  • commonly used in spa treatments and luxury skincare products.

why it works:

  • ideal for all skin types, particularly beneficial for dry and aging skin.
  • helps to restore skin’s natural ph balance.
  • provides a youthful, radiant glow and improves overall skin health.