There are many types of clay used in cosmetics: how do you find your way around? We offer a practical guide to help you learn more
When choosing a clay treatment or face mask, it's worth finding out which type of clay is contained in the formula: each variety has a distinctive colour and, above all, performs different actions. Here is a guide to discovering everything about the different types of clay in cosmetics.
This type of clay has a predominantly antiseptic, bactericidal and purifying action, making it particularly valuable for impure skin prone to acne, as well as occasional breakouts. As it is the most gentle of the clays, depending on its concentration in masks and cosmetics it is also suitable for sensitive skin. It acts as an exfoliant and purifies deeply, without stripping the skin of its natural oil reserves.
Slightly more powerful than white clay, it is rich in potassium and titanium, which act on the formation of new collagen, making it suitable for dry or mature skin as well. It also has a free-radical-fighting action, making it perfect for skin that is no longer young.
This is the detoxifying and purifying clay par excellence, and is therefore recommended for more problematic, acne-prone skin. It can be added to masks to boost their detox action.
This type of clay is in fact a combination of white and red clay, which means it combines the properties of both, making it indispensable for its detoxifying effect combined with a balancing and rehydrating action. It is also perfect for body skin and the scalp.
Green clay gets its colour from its richness in plant material. It has a pronounced sebum-absorbing, purifying and normalising action, including on enlarged pores. It also has a positive effect on the complexion, as it reactivates microcirculation and the oxygenation of skin tissue: for this reason, a sensation of warmth or tingling may be felt during the application time.
This special clay comes from Morocco and is particularly well suited to both face and body skin as well as to hair and the scalp. Extremely rich in mineral salts, it purifies deeply and draws out toxins without causing dehydration. It is also found in soaps and cleansers for everyday use. Those who regularly use hair styling products, or frequently wear heavy make-up, should do periodic treatments to remove product build-up that inevitably settles in the pores.