I was buying my protein powder and vitamins online a couple weeks ago, and just for fun I clicked on the natural beauty product section. I have been suffering from some breakouts here and there and was looking for something natural that could help.
When I ranked the beauty products from highest to lowest rating, this was one of the top products. Note: I wasn’t paid to talk about this product, I just really like it!
I bought this Aztec Healing Clay, one pound for $5 from The Vitamin Shoppe. Its 100% calcium bentonite clay, and it claimed that it was the “World’s most powerful facial”. Heck, it was only $5 and had a five star review so I bought it. It came in a tub with a screw-off lid, and inside was this velvety grey powder.
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On the back of the bottle, it says that calcium bentonite has been used as an Indian healing clay for centuries to refresh the face and cleanse pores. Bentonite is known for being able to absorb and “pull” toxins, chemicals, and bacteria from the pores.
The Wellness Mama says she’s heard of people using bentonite clay for:
- Clearing up acne, remove excess oil
- Digestive aid to help with constipation, bloating and gas
- Help with skin allergies
- Oral health
- Speed healing on skin problems
- Helps bites, burns and stings
- Detox baths
I was up for trying it as a mask, but I’m not sure how I’d feel about taking it orally.
On a lot of the reviews I’ve read, apple cider vinegar works wonders when mixed with bentonite clay for a face/body mask because of its antibacterial and antiseptic properties. Quite a few reviewers claimed it cleared up their acne. The consensus that I got from several websites was to use the mask daily for two weeks, then scale back to twice per week.
So, I’ve been mixing about 2 parts clay to one part apple cider vinegar. I put the ingredients in a plastic baggy, then use my fingers to mix it up. I put a small layer anywhere that I have a breakout. Let me tell you though, apple cider vinegar has a pretty pungent smell. I’ve used it before so I was aware of the smell, but for those of you who’ve never smelled it before… beware.
I’ve been keeping the mask on for about 8 minutes. Any longer than that and it starts to burn and itch. NOTE: Do not rinse off in the sink or shower! It is mud and will clog your drains! I use makeup wipes to get it all off, then rinse off in the shower.
Here’s me without makeup! I have been using it for about two weeks now on my face and body. I can definitely tell a difference. My acne scars have faded and I haven’t had any new breakouts. My cheeks look rosy and I haven’t been as oily!
Do you have a favorite face mask that you love?
Hi! I’m Emily, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and self-taught intuitive chef. I firmly believe that cooking is the simplest and most important step we can take to improve our minds and bodies and build healthier communities. Join me and let’s bring food back to the kitchen!