Episode Title: Are You Making These Mistakes With Your Clay Mask?
On this episode of the Korean Beauty Show podcast, Lauren runs through the most common mistakes she sees people making when using clay masks and what to do instead. If you've been letting your clay mask dry and crack on your face, then tune in because this episode is for you!
Here's a quick refresher on why clay masks are a great addition to your skincare routine:
Firstly, they draw out oil, dirt, grease and other impurities, which contribute to congested skin.
Secondly, clay masks help to stimulate blood flow to boost your skin’s brightness.
Finally, by drawing out excess oil on the skin’s surface, clay masks help to manage sebum production and reduce excess shine.
If I had to summarize the key mistakes I see people make when it comes to using their clay masks it would be these:
Clay masks are made with oil control and pore care in mind. I'll frequently see people mention that their clay mask "wasn't hydrating" but that's for a reason - namely, they're not supposed to be.
If you’re looking for a boost of hydration, there are plenty of mask optionsavailable! Sleeping masks are one option, likeJelly Ko Cherry Blossom Sleeping Mask.
Clay masks, however, are designed to care for the pores and for excess oil. Which makes them the exact opposite of a hydrating choice. That's not to say there aren't clay masks on the market that DON'T dry your skin out. But that's not the same thing as saying they are hydrating.
Because they’re so effective with drawing out oil and impurities, you might be tempted to add a clay mask into your routine every night of the week. Unfortunately, that's not the best idea. If you have oily or acne prone skin you can get away with using them up to three times a week.
If you're on the dry side or have mature skin, I'd recommend limiting your clay masks to once a week. This can help prevent dehydration.
If you leave your clay mask on until it goes dry and crackly you can actually do more harm then good. That's because once the mask is fully dry, it can dehydrate and irritate your skin to leave it on any longer.
In addition, the more difficult it is to remove it (wash it off), the more irritating it will be for your skin.
When you first apply a clay mask, the dampness encourages your skin to draw in minerals and nutrients from the mask. It also encourages blood flow.
However, leaving it on past the point that it has dried is not a good idea.
You don't need to apply an entire face full of clay mask every time you use it. One of the benefits of them is that you can customize them to your face, your skin and your skin issues.
If you’re finding that your skin feels more oily in some areas over others (like your T-Zone), you can use clay masks like a spot treatment for more dedicated sebum control.
Similarly, if you've got a pimple, you can apply the clay mask to the spot and leave it overnight. Wash it off in the morning.
Please, please, please don't wash off your clay mask and go to bed.You need to nourish and hydrate your face afterwards! Clay masks belong in the exfoliating step of your routine, which means they aren't designed to be wash and go. You must hydrate your face afterwards.
Try:
This is one of the most famous Korean beauty products because it is a great option for oily, acne prone skin.
Made from volcanic clay, this mask vacuums out oil and impurities for a fresher, cleaner face.
This soothing pink clay mask is especially perfect for calming irritated skin, as much as it’s effective for removing dead skin and minimising the appearance of pores.
If you love pink clay and are looking for a skin detox, this mask is a particularly suitable choice.
For drier skin types and mature skin, Holo Dream is perfect because it offers the benefits of gentle a clay mask but in a nourishing cream formula that won't dry out your skin.
Because it contains zero fragrances (not even essential oils), it's ideal for those with compromised skin barriers, damage, irritation and sensitivity.
This mask works a little differently to regular clay masks because it offers a subtle holo shimmer that stays after you finish masking. This function acts to blur your pores and is also the perfect base for makeup.
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"Because they’re so effective with drawing out oil and impurities, you might be tempted to add a clay mask into your routine every night of the week. Unfortunately, that's not the best idea."
- Lauren Lee, Host of the Korean Beauty Show podcastComments will be approved before showing up.