5 Mistakes to Avoid With Clay Masks

If you’ve ever wanted to do your ownat-home facial spa, chances are you’ve tried a few clay masks and know the drill. 

Apply all over your face, leave it on until it’s dried out (how else are you going to know all the oil’s been soaked up?) and wash it off.

Right?

Uhhhh... not exactly.

Look, we hate to be the bearers of bad news, but when it comes to clay masks, they'll do better for your skin when used the right way. 

Let's take a look at 5 mistakes to avoid with clay masks. 

 

What are the benefits of using a clay mask?

Before we look at mistakes to avoid, let’s have a quick refresher on why clay masks can be a great part of our skincare routines.

1. Firstly, they draw out oil, dirt, grease and other impurities, which contribute to congested skin.
2. Secondly, clay masks help to stimulate blood flow to boost your skin’s brightness.
3. Finally, by drawing out excess oil on the skin’s surface, clay masks help to manage sebum production and reduce excess shine.

5 Clay Mask Mistakes to Avoid

 

CLAY MASK MISTAKE 1:

Not understanding what clay masks are made to do - clay masks are made with oil control and pore care in mind.

While some clays (eg. pink) are more hydrating compared to others, a common misconception is that clay masks are also hydrating.  If you’re looking for a boost of hydration, there are plenty of mask optionsavailable! Sleeping masks are one ultra-hydrating option, like Jelly Ko Cherry Blossom Sleeping Mask. 

Clay masks, however, are not of the same category. 

 

 

CLAY MASK MISTAKE 2

Overusing clay masks - Because they’re so effective with drawing out oil and impurities, there’s a strong temptation to clay mask all the time.

Less oil, less problems right? 

Unfortunately, it doesn't work like that. Less oil equals...drier skin if you overdo it. 

The effect of overmasking with a clay mask is real and despite the temptation,  can strip skin of the oils it needs. Using a clay mask more than 1-3 times a week can open the door to potential skin issues arising.

 

CLAY MASK MISTAKE 3 

Letting a mask dry out or crack on your face

While it’s a lot of fun to leave a clay mask on until it’s dry and crackly, all the masking benefits ended a while ago. Clay masks have different effects throughout their application. 

1. Firstly, when applied, the dampness encourages your skin to draw in minerals and nutrients from the mask. 
2. Secondly, your skin’s blood flow and collagen production are stimulated once the mask begins drying, therefore leading to brighter skin. 
3. The next stage is fully dry, and letting a mask get to this point can result in dehydrated, irritated skin.

So ignore all those photos of girls in dried out pink clay masks on Instagram and keep to 5-10 minutes for your mask. As soon as you feel it drying on your face, it's time to wash it off. 

 

 

CLAY MASK MISTAKE 4

 

Only ever using a mask all over your face 

Your face is unique, and your skincare should be too! 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.

 

CLAY MASK MISTAKE 5

Using a clay mask as your only skincare product 

As with all masks, clay masks are just one part of a holistic skincare routine. With fresh clean pores, make sure your skin is living its best life with follow up products to nourish and hydrate.

What to use afterwards?

Try:

1. Toner 
2. Serum 
3. Moisturizer 
4. Sleeping Mask 

 

Our Clay Mask Picks

For Oily Skin - Innisfree Jeju Volcanic Pore Clay Mask

This clay mask is one of the most famous Korean beauty products, in effect making it a go-to favourite for oily, acne prone skin.

Made from volcanic clay, this mask vacuums out oil and impurities for a fresher, cleaner face.

 

For Normal Skin -  Heimish All Clean Pink Clay Purifying Mask

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 apppearance of pores.

If you love pink clay and are looking for a skin detox, this mask is a particularly suitable choice.

 

 

 

For Sensitive, Dry, Damaged & Irritated Skin - Subi Holo Dream Brightening Pore Minimizing Mask & Brush Set

For drier skin types, 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. 

 

How do you use clay masks?  Let us know in the comments!

 

STYLE STORY - Your Go To for Kbeauty