
DIY Clay Masks (How to Make Spa Quality Face Masks at Home)
Learn how to make clay mask recipes for a spa quality facial at home. DIY clay masks are easy to make and work to exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin. Learn about the different types of clay and how to use them to create a mask for your skin type.
Homemade Clay Masks for Skin Care
DIY clay masks are my favorite types of masks. They exfoliate, brighten, and absorb toxins and impurities from your skin, so they are truly an all purpose mask. They are an easy type of mask to make, and you can customize your mask to fit your skin’s needs. So as my skin changes, due to either external elements or my wild and wacky hormones, I always have the perfect skin care solution ready to be executed as a skin savior.
I’ve bought premade clay masks, but they don’t compare to DIY clay masks. Store bought masks, in my opinion, don’t work as well to absorb oil and brighten my skin. The masks I make work better, and they are a lot cheaper. I buy my clay in bulk from Mountain Rose Herbs. Their quality is amazing, and my ingredients last a really long time. So I can easily make a year’s worth of DIY clay masks for next to nothing when compared to the store bought versions.
The clay masks you buy at the store have preservatives in them. Since my DIY clay mask recipes are for one use only, you can skip the preservative (but be sure to discard any leftovers!). Your homemade clay mask won’t have any fillers, artificial colors or other questionable ingredients that you probably don’t want sitting on your skin. So you can trust these clay masks as part of your clean beauty regimen.
Before you can make your own DIY clay masks, however, you need to learn about the different types of clay, as well as their skin care benefits.
Types of Clay for DIY Clay Mask Recipes
Generally, you can swap the type of clay used in DIY clay mask recipes. If you find a recipe that you like with green clay but have sensitive skin, use kaolin clay instead.
French Green Clay (For Normal to Oily Skin)
French green clay, also referred to as illite clay, is excellent for oily skin or large pores. It is high in iron oxide, which gives it the green color. In addition to pulling oil from the skin and cleaning out pores, it also boosts blood circulation. You may feel some tingling while the mask is on.
You can even use French green clay to make natural deodorant for sensitive skin!
Bentonite Clay (Best for Normal, Combination, Acne-Prone or Oily Skin)
Bentonite clay is one of the more popular clays to make DIY clay mask recipes. This type of clay is inexpensive and easy to find, making it a great choice for at home mask recipes.
Bentonite clay is excellent for oily skin. It absorbs oil, dirt and grime from your skin. It is also electrically charged, so it works like a magnet to attract toxins and dirt. For this reason, it’s important that you never use metal measuring spoons or mixing spoons; always use plastic, wood, or silicone with bentonite clay.
Bentonite clay can leave your face red for a few hours, so don’t use this type of clay before work or before a date. It’s best to mix it with apple cider vinegar for a smoother mask. Water and other liquids will work, but they can create a lumpy mask.
Fuller’s Earth Clay (For Acne Prone or Oily Skin with Mild Pigmentation)
Fuller’s earth clay, like bentonite clay, is another great clay for oily skin. It’s considered the most absorbent sedimentary clay and is commonly used in skin lightening DIY clay masks. Often referred to as “facial bleach,” this clay is an excellent choice for a clay mask base for extremely oily skin.
White Kaolin Clay (For All Skin Types, Including Sensitive Skin)
Kaolin clay is white cosmetic clay, and it’s the gentlest clay. It’s great for sensitive skin, but any skin type can use it. It doesn’t absorb as much oil as do other types of clay. It is good for mild exfoliating though. Kaolin clay is good for boosting circulation, so it’s often used for skin brightening masks.
Rose Clay (For Combination Skin, Including Sensitive Skin)
Rose clay, also known as pink kaolin clay, is a type of kaolin clay that is also gentle on skin. It has a fine texture, and it’s more suited to sensitive skin. It absorbs more oil than does kaolin clay, as it’s rich in silica, so it’s a good option for normal to oily sensitive skin. And, unlike some products that work on oily skin but not sensitive skin, rose clay won’t cause irritation or redness. (The darker the clay, in this case, the more oil absorbent properties it has!)
Rhassoul Clay (For Normal or Oily Skin, Including Sensitive Skin)
Rhassoul clay isn’t a very popular clay for DIY clay face masks, but it’s wonderful for the skin and hair. It’s very high in minerals to nourish the skin. Like bentonite clay, it has a negative charge, so it’s attracted to impurities and toxins in the skin. It pulls out oil, blackheads, and sebum for clearer looking skin.
If bentonite clay is too irritating for your skin, try rhassoul clay. It doesn’t work quite as well as bentonite clay, but it is milder and may be better suited for your skin type.
Tips for Making DIY Clay Mask Recipes
You should now have a basic understanding of the types of clay used to make facial masks and their benefits for different skin types. So, let’s explore some other popular questions concerning how to make clay masks for skin care.
What Can I Add to a Clay Mask?
Generally, a clay mask will have a type of clay and a liquid. The liquid can either be water, apple cider vinegar, witch hazel, aloe, cooled brewed green or white tea or even yogurt.
You can also add more solids to the mask in addition to the clay. I really like adding matcha green tea or charcoal to the clay to create DIY face masks. You can also add ground oatmeal for sensitive skin.
Can I Use a Clay Mask Every Day?
You should use a clay mask once or twice a week. Personally, I can’t use them more than once a week or they are too drying.
However, if you do want to use them twice a week, you can apply the mask only to troubled areas and let it dry for 5 to 10 minutes instead of letting it dry completely. This gives you the benefits of the mask without over drying your skin.
Typically, if I’m experiencing a breakout, I will use a facial mask twice per week. As I have combination skin, I apply the product only to my T-zone in this instance. This prevents my cheeks and other dry areas from becoming dehydrated.
Should You Let Clay Masks Dry?
You don’t always need to let your DIY clay mask dry completely on your skin. Clay can be drying, and it can be too drying for some skin types. If your face is tight or irritated after using a clay mask, then rinse after 5 to 10 minutes instead of letting it dry completely.
Do Clay Masks Get Rid of Blackheads?
Yes, some types of clay can get rid of blackheads. Clay can loosen blackheads, and some will loosen and fall out.
Should You Moisturize After a Clay Mask?
Yes, the clay can be very drying. I always follow a clay mask with a serum and an intense moisturizer. A night facial moisturizer is perfect to use after a clay mask. You can also use my hyaluronic acid serum and your favorite moisturizer after using a clay mask.
Face Mask Mixing Kit
If you make DIY clay mask recipes often, I highly recommend buying a mixing kit. This kit is inexpensive and comes with a bowl, spray bottle, measuring spoons, brush, spatula, and an empty jar.
When you find a recipe you love, combine the dry ingredients in the empty jar. Then you can place the dry ingredients in the bowl and add the liquid to make a single use mask.
Alternately, if you may also love the botanical masks from Mountain Rose Herbs. This pre-made dry mask makes it easier than ever to treat yourself to a gratifying home spa experience. These all natural, vegan, and cruelty-free dry powder masks support skin and offer aromatherapeutic benefits. Simply mix the plant-based dry mask powder to your desired consistency with water or your favorite cosmetic hydrosol immediately before use. Buy it here.
How to Make Clay Masks
Face masks created with clay are probably one of the easiest products you can make for your skin. In most instances, it simply requires you to weigh or measure out the dry ingredients, then mix them together. The dry powder can be stored for later use, then is mixed with water, milk, or a hydrosol just prior to application. This means you don’t have to worry about using a preservative for your skin care products. It also provides a much longer shelf life.
Now that you have a basic understanding of the different types of clay and the skin care benefits of clays for clay mask recipes, here are a few of my favorite DIY clay mask recipes to get you started. Feel free to use these DIY clay mask recipes as a starting point for formulating your own clay masks. The more you experiment, the more you’ll learn about how the different ingredients work with your skin type.
Following are several easy recipes to get you started on your skin care journey.
Easy Kaolin Face Mask
If you’ve never made a clay face mask before, here’s an easy, 3-ingredient recipe formulated with kaolin clay. This DIY is a quick and easy way to get your feet wet before trying out recipes with additional ingredients. In addition, it is gentle enough for all skin types and can be used regularly for glowing, healthy looking skin.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon of white Kaolin clay
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 2-3 drops of your favorite essential oil
Directions
- In a bowl, mix the Kaolin clay and honey until combined.
- Add 2-3 drops of your favorite essential oil and mix until combined.
Usage
- Apply the kaolin mask to your face and leave it on for 10-15 minutes.
- Rinse off with warm water and pat your face dry.
Purifying Facial Mask for Acne Prone Skin
A purifying face mask is designed to help improve the overall health and appearance of your skin. It can help remove excess oils and dirt, reduce the appearance of blemishes, and even out skin tone. The mask can also help reduce the appearance of pores, remove dead skin cells, and nourish the skin with essential vitamins and minerals. When used regularly, a purifying face mask can help your skin look and feel healthier, brighter, and more vibrant.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 teaspoon green clay
- 1 teaspoon corn flour
- 1 teaspoon Water
- 1 drop of Chamomile essential oil
- 1 drop of Lavender essential oil
- 1 drop Juniper essential oil
- 1 drop Patchouli essential oil
Directions:
- Mix the clay and corn flour together in a small, glass bowl.
- Add the drops of essential oil and mix well.
- Now, mix in the water until a paste is formed.
Usage
- Apply the purifying mask to your face and leave it on for 10-15 minutes.
- Rinse off with warm water and pat your face dry.
Green Clay Mask for Normal Skin
This DIY clay mask is formulated with French green clay — one of my favorite clays for maturing skin! It also includes an egg yolk and essential oils to help transform your skin and reveal its natural beauty.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 teaspoon green clay
- 1 teaspoon corn flour
- 1 Egg Yolk
- 1 teaspoon water
- 2 drops Geranium essential oil
- 1 drop rose oil
Directions:
- Use measuring spoons to measure out the dry ingredients called for in the recipe. Mix to combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolk together with the water and drops of essential oil.
- Mix the dry ingredients into the container with the egg mixture.
Usage
- Apply the facial mask to your face and leave it on for 10-15 minutes.
- Rinse off with warm water and pat your face dry.
Revitalizing Clay Mask for Dehydrated Skin
Revitalizing green clay masks for dry skin are a great way to bring hydration and nourishment to your skin. The green clay helps to draw out impurities from the skin while also providing essential minerals and vitamins that help to nourish and moisturize the skin. It helps to reduce inflammation and irritation and helps to balance the skin’s pH levels, leaving your skin feeling softer and smoother.
Similar to the base recipe for the other clay masks, this one includes jojoba oil to help quench dry, dehydrated skin. You may, however, substitute the jojoba oil for another of your choice. Rosehip is a nice, dry oil as is hemp seed and fractionated coconut oil. Or try a skin soothing calendula face oil with this recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 teaspoon green clay
- 1 teaspoon corn flour
- 1 Egg Yolk
- 1 teaspoon Brewer’s Yeast
- 1 teaspoon Jojoba Oil
- 1 Tablespoon Water
- 1 drop Chamomile essential oil
- 2 drops Carrot Oil
Directions:
- Use measuring spoons to measure out the dry ingredients called for in the recipe. Mix to combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolk together with the water, jojoba oil, and drops of essential oil.
- Mix the dry ingredients into the container with the egg mixture.
Usage
- Apply the dry skin mask to your face and leave it on for 10-15 minutes.
- Rinse off with warm water and pat your face dry.
Brewer’s Yeast Face Mask for Dry Skin
Brewer’s yeast is a natural ingredient commonly used in face masks for its skin-soothing benefits. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce redness and irritation. When used in a face mask, brewer’s yeast can help to improve skin’s overall appearance by nourishing and moisturizing the skin, reducing blemishes, and evening out skin tone. Additionally, brewer’s yeast can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, age spots, and other signs of aging.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 teaspoon green clay
- 1 teaspoon corn flour
- 1 Tablespoon Brewer’s Yeast
- 1 Tablespoon Water
- 1 drop of Rosemary essential oil
- 1 drop of Lavender essential oil
Directions:
- Mix the clay, Brewer’s yeast, and corn flour together in a small, glass bowl.
- Add the drops of essential oil and mix well.
- Now, mix in the water until a paste is formed.
Usage
- Apply the Brewer’s yeast mask to your face and leave it on for 10-15 minutes.
- Rinse off with warm water and pat your face dry.
Clay Mask Recipes
If you’d like to explore more recipes to add to your skin care routine, then be sure to try my other recipes for making clay facial masks at home:
- Carrot & Rosehip Seed Oil Face Mask Recipe: Made with both kaolin & French green clay, this face mask also contains powdered, floral botanicals and anti-aging carrot seed oil. Therefore, it is ideal for toning and detoxifying maturing or dry skin may be occasionally prone to acne.
- DIY Rhassoul Clay Mask: I formulated this homemade Rhassoul mask for those with maturing, dry, or sensitive skin. Blended with lavender, bergamot and frankincense essential oils, this recipe also contains skin soothing, colloidal oatmeal and dried floral botanicals. It makes a wonderful bi-weekly or monthly addition to any beauty regimen.
- Nutrient Rich Clay Mask Recipes: Put forward a fresh face and fight those harsh winter elements by giving your skin a healthy dose of nutrient rich, detoxifying face food! These all natural clay mask recipes are extremely easy to create and are created for all skin types.
- Anti-Aging Yogurt Face Mask: This anti-aging mask recipe with yogurt is suitable for all skin types. However, it’s especially nice if you are trying to fight the appearance of aging. Because yogurt contains lactic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid that dissolves dead skin cells, the use of yogurt in a face mask can help to diminish the appearance of lines and wrinkles as well as fight breakouts.
- Activated Charcoal Detox Mask Recipe: If acne is your nemesis, then clay is a great remedy! This recipe is made with both activated charcoal and kaolin clay to gently out impurities, clear up blackheads and remove excess oil. As a result, you will experience fewer breakouts and expedited healing times.
- Clay Cleansing Bars: Not a mask, but similar, are clay cleansing bars. These natural cleansers are are made with clay rather than soap. They contain ingredients that are not only kind to skin, but also help to prevent acne! If you suffer from regular breakouts, then this option may be ideal for your skin type.
Alternate Ways to Use Clay Masks
Face masks are a great way to give your skin a boost of nourishment and hydration. Here are some alternative ways to use DIY face masks with clay for your natural skin care routine:
- Mix the mask with your favorite moisturizer or serum to create a hydrating and nourishing face mask. (I love this simple, yet effective anti-aging serum recipe.)
- Apply the face mask as an overnight mask to give your skin a boost of hydration while you sleep. (This overnight face mask from A Life Adjacent is ideal for dry skin!)
- Use a face mask as a spot treatment to target specific areas of your skin that need extra attention. Masks made with bentonite clay are particularly useful when it comes to treating acne.
- Create a DIY face mask with natural ingredients like honey, yogurt, and avocado for extra nourishment.
- Make a cooling and calming face mask with ingredients like cucumber and green tea to help soothe your skin.
- Include fruit extracts in your recipes. Dried fruit powders are easy to incorporate into any clay mask recipe for glowing skin. The alpha-hydroxy acid and vitamin C help to brighten skin and even skin tone. This in turn combats the visible signs of aging.
Love these DIY clay mask recipes? Then don’t forget to pin this post to Pinterest for later! (You can also follow me for more great DIY beauty ideas.) Or, discover even more clean beauty recipes by following me across your favorite social media platforms! Discover Soap Deli News on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
6 Comments
A Life Adjacent
April 22, 2020 at 6:14 pm
Can’t beat a good DIY clay face mask! Thanks for sharing so many wonderful options!
Cari
April 23, 2020 at 10:39 am
I love clay masks! Thanks for all of the info and tips. I usually use bentonite, but I think now I need some green clay for its benefits.
Michelle
April 24, 2020 at 6:00 pm
Thanks for sharing the tips and different options. My daughter would like the one for acne.
Josiah – DIY Thrill
April 27, 2020 at 11:16 pm
This is such a great DIY!
Christie
May 2, 2020 at 4:24 pm
I definitely suffer from acne, so this will be very helpful. Thank you for sharing this!
Heidi | The Frugal Girls
May 4, 2020 at 6:05 pm
What a perfect way to pamper yourself at home this week!
Comments are closed.