I enjoy using clay on my skin because of its ability to absorb excess oils and harmful toxins, while infusing my skin with healthy minerals. Bentonite clay has been my staple face mask ingredient until I stumbled onto Rhassoul clay.
This natural clay is formed as a result of geothermal processes and volcanic activity. It is mined from Morocco and is rich in magnesium, iron, sodium, potassium, lithium, and silica.
Due to its high mineral content, this clay is excellent for your skin, hair, and nails. Like bentonite clay, it has a negative charge which allows it to draw out impurities and toxins from the skin. It is also known as red clay, red Morrocan clay (due to its reddish brown color), or Ghassoul clay.
While other clays may leave your skin dry, Rhassoul lessens dryness while improving elasticity and complexion. It is gentle enough to use daily as it doesn’t strip your skin of beneficial oils.
In fact, clinical studies and testing on Rhassoul found that it can reduce blemishes and blackheads, increase skin elasticity, even skin tone and reduce skin dryness or flakiness.
Uses for rhassoul clay
Rhassoul can be used like any other healing clay:
1. Face mask
Mix one teaspoon of clay with a little water, rose water or any other beneficial liquid such as aloe vera. This paste can be rubbed onto the face and left to dry for 5 – 15 minutes before washing off. This mask is excellent for problematic skin as it helps to clear up acne and eczema.
2. Face scrub
When combined with other ingredients, it makes a nourishing scrub. These include oats, ground almonds, or bicarbonate of soda, essential oils, salt or sugar. This scrub will really leave your skin smooth.
3. Body wrap
Make a cellulite reducing wrap by mixing some chamomile tea with aloe vera, apple cider vinegar and red clay. Apply the paste on the affected areas such as the thighs and wrap with cling film and a warm towel or blanket. Relax and wash off after an hour.
Using cosmetic clays
As with other clays, use a non metallic bowl and spoon when mixing. Rhassoul has a negative charge therefore if you use metal utensils, the metal can leech out into the clay. Therefore the clay will be full of metals which are not beneficial to your skin. This clay is not suitable for internal use.
What has been your experience with rhassoul? Drop us an e-mail on evewoman@standardmedia.co.ke