Hair's My Experience

Bentonite clay has become so popular as it relates to hair and skin care. Have you ever wondered where it comes from and what makes it up? Bentonite clay is said to be a type of clay that absorbs and is made up of volcanic ash, weathered and aged volcanic ash deposits. Fort Benton, Wyoming, is the first place to identify this clay.

Bentonite clay has not only become popular as a natural treatment but it has grabbed an interest of new and old users.  When it comes to hair, bentonite clay is believed to have several benefits. 

common uses for hair care:

Cleansing and detoxifying Hair and Scalp Benefits: Bentonite clay has great cleansing properties that will remove dirt, oil buildup, and impurities from the hair and scalp. It works by naturally cleansing and removing product buildup and environmental pollutants.

Scalp health: Known to reduce itchiness and excessive oil production from the scalp by detoxification. Also, it helps in unclogging hair follicles, which may play a part in improving hair growth and overall scalp health.

Hair Softening, Moisture and Conditioning: Bentonite clay is naturally high in minerals, silica, calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which soften and condition the hair. By using the clay mask for your hair, it is expected that your hair will become manageable. 

Curl Pattern Enhanced: Curly or textured hair experience great benefits when the clay is added to a hair care regimen. The clay helps to define your curls and limit frizz. 

Improved Volume: Has the ability to remove excess oil by absorbing it and helps add volume to the hair basically making thin, fine, or flat hair fuller.

Recipe: Mix bentonite clay with water or other liquid like apple cider vinegar or aloe vera gel. Then apply on the hair roots, scalp, and down the hair shaft while your hair is damp. Leave it on hair and scalp for at least 15 minutes before rinsing and following through with your normal hair wash routine. 

Hair Porosity and Bentonite Clay

Many people may ask if bentonite clay is better for a particular hair porosity type? The truth is bentonite clay may be suitable for all hair types, including the varying porosity levels. However, it has proven to be particularly beneficial for those with low porosity hair.

Low porosity hair is characterized by a tightly closed cuticle layer that makes it difficult for moisture to penetrate the hair shaft. When used as a hair mask on low porosity hair, Bentonite clay helps to open up the cuticle layer improving moisture absorption and overall enhanced health of low porosity hair.

The properties of Bentonite clay are naturally absorbent in effect working to balance the scalp’s natural oils and soothe irritation or itchiness. The exfoliating effect of bentonite clay promotes a clean and healthy scalp and a healthy environment for growing hair.  

While bentonite clay proves to have greater benefit for low porosity hair, it can also be used on other hair types.

Bentonite Clay facial mask 

Bentonite clay can be used as a face mask by choosing a bentonite powder and mixing it with things like rose water and aloe gel until a smooth mixture is achieved. You can also purchase a ready made bentonite clay face mask. Before using make sure the ingredients are good to use on your skin type. 

Cleansing your face thoroughly before applying the bentonite clay mask is essential as it will create better absorption and maximizing its cleansing benefits.

Let the mask dry and leave it on the face for at least 10-20 minutes. When this happens, your face may experience a feeling of tightness; this is a part of the process. 

Rinse thoroughly with warm water to remove bentonite clay mask. 

expected skin results after using bentonite clay: 

Deep Pore cleansing: Great at removing toxins, unclogging pores, preventing acne breakouts and reducing blackheads.

Exfoliation: Provides a gentle exfoliation process removing dead skin cells while improving the complexion and texture of your skin.  

Oil balancing: For oily or combination skin, it can help balance sebum production and absorb excess oil without stripping away the skin’s natural moisture, thus preventing a greasy appearance or acne breakouts. 

Skin tightening: Bentonite clay helps to tighten the skin, minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Soothing and calming: It naturally soothes irritated or inflamed skin and can be beneficial for individuals with sensitive or acne-prone skin.

While bentonite clay can be good for a range of skin types, it tends to be more suitable for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin due to its oil-absorbing and pore-cleansing properties. 

For dry or sensitive skin, bentonite clay is advised to be used in moderation to prevent excessive dryness. Dry skin types should always use a hydrating moisturizer after use.

When you’re not sure if it will work for your skin, be sure to first do a patch test or consult your doctor. This will limit the unnecessary exposure to unwanted skin reactions. 

Final Thoughts

Though bentonite clay proves to be useful for many people, results can vary for each individual.

If you know of any scalp conditions, skin, or allergies, before using bentonite clay it’s best to consult a dermatologist or hair care professional.