Charcoal Mask Vs. Clay Mask
Masks are a crucial part of every self-care routine.
They allow us to take time for ourselves and rejuvenate our skin at the same time.
Masks are so relaxing, and sometimes we can’t help but buy every single one to try.
Some of the most popular facial masks are made from charcoal or clay.
Both of these ingredients offer various benefits to the skin, and they feel satisfying to apply.
But have you ever wondered which one is the best for your skin type?
Charcoal and clay masks share many similarities, but they do differ.
They both have a mud-like texture that purifies and clarifies the skin, cleansing out congestion.
In addition, they prep the skin for your other skincare products.
But what’s the difference between charcoal masks and clay masks?
Each mask type suits a specific skin type. Charcoal is ideal for oily skin types, and clay is perfect for drier skin types, but they both offer much more.
Thankfully, charcoal and clay masks are ubiquitous in most skincare routines.
In addition, you can learn to customize your mask routine to gain benefits from both ingredients.
Ready to mask your way to beautiful skin? Then read on!
Charcoal Vs Clay
Both charcoal and clay are go-to skincare ingredients found in numerous products, such as cleansers, toners, and, most commonly, face masks.
In addition, most people can find a use for both masks and even start “multi-masking.”
Multi-masking is a great way to customize face masks for different areas of the face so you can gain the benefits of both ingredients.
However, before you start putting all your products together, it’s crucial to understand each mask and how it works.
Charcoal
Charcoal has numerous health benefits, and it’s an ingredient that’s been used for thousands of years thanks to its versatility.
Activated Charcoal is most commonly found in skincare products, toothpaste, and supplements.
While charcoal, or activated charcoal, has been used in thousands of remedies for centuries, there are still limited studies demonstrating its effectiveness.
However, people globally have claimed to benefit from activated charcoal.
So why do people still use charcoal? According to Healthline,“Research has shown that, due to its absorbent nature, activated charcoal can draw toxins from the body.”
Charcoal can draw out toxins from the skin and even help with digestion.
In addition, charcoal causes little to no irritation unless you overuse the product.
However, it’s always ideal to conduct a patch test to ensure you don’t have any unusual sensitivities to charcoal.
Too much of a good thing isn’t such a good thing after all.
Limit your use of charcoal masks to 1-2 times a week to avoid dryness, redness, and other irritations.
However, when used correctly, charcoal can provide the skin with various positive benefits.
Benefits Of Charcoal
Charcoal is a fantastic detoxifying ingredient that benefits both the skin and the gut.
But what exactly can charcoal treat, what can be drawn out from the skin, and how can you receive the maximum benefits?
- Acne and Oily Skin – It’s been said that charcoal contains antibacterial properties, which are ideal for treating acne.
Acne can become seriously inflamed due to hormones, bacteria, and excess oil production, all of which can be treated with activated charcoal.
Healthline states that charcoal can also keep your oil production at bay, “by removing dead skin cells and absorbing excess oil. Activated charcoal may help give your skin a healthy glow without too much shine.” - Remove Impurities – Activated charcoal is highly absorbent, so it can draw out even your deepest and darkest secrets.
Charcoal can draw out dirt, bacteria, dead skin, and more from the skin to unveil a healthy complexion. - Gut Health – In some cases, charcoal has been used to treat overdoses because of its ability to absorb toxins.
However, charcoal can also havethe potential to heal the gut lining and support digestion.
Clay
Clay is another common ingredient used in skincare for its purifying properties for the skin and hair.
In addition, clay masks are usually composed of different types of clay to create the perfect balance.
According to one article from Healthline, Clay facial masks are made from several types of clay, such as kaolin or bentonite.
It’s thought that these masks have several benefits, such as absorbing excess oil and managing dry skin.
Surprisingly enough, charcoal and clay share many similarities.
They both remove toxins and impurities from the skin and treat acne.
However, clay masks are ideal for normal and dry skin types that usually feel stripped by charcoal masks.
Clay masks are much more hydrating than charcoal masks.
So even if you want to opt for a mud-like mask, clay is ideal if you are on the drier side.
In addition, clay can benefit other parts of your body, such as your hair, by removing buildup and excess oil.
Like charcoal, most evidence of clay’s effectiveness is anecdotal.
However, new studies are published every day proving how effective clay can be for the skin.
Ready to find out what clay has in store for you?
Benefits of Clay
Clay masks can treat various skin conditions, draw out toxins, regulate oil production, and help clear acne.
However, its hydrating properties are what make it ideal for dry and sensitive skin types.
- Treat Dry Skin – Clay creates a barrier that is ideal for severely dry or even dehydrated skin. Clay masks are more hydrating for dry skin types or for skin with a specific condition.
It’s crucial not to overuse them, as they can be counterproductive and worsen dryness. Instead, it’s essential to create balance within a skincare routine. - Eliminate Toxins – Clay can also remove toxins from the skin that are caused by environmental pollution or other external factors.
Pros And Cons
Cons
Thankfully, there aren’t too many cons with charcoal or clay masks.
However, it’s crucial to conduct a patch test before incorporating any new products into your routine to avoid allergic reactions.
The only adverse side effects of charcoal and clay masks occur when you use them too frequently.
For example, using these face masks more than the recommended amount can result in dryness, redness, irritation, and flaky skin.
Pros
Both Charcoal and Clay masks are superhero ingredients that provide similar benefits.
They both remove toxins/impurities, treat acne and skin imperfections, and control oil production.
While they are both suitable for all skin types, they do benefit from specific characteristics.
For example, clay is more hydrating and will help dry skin types more than Charcoal, and Charcoal is ideal for oily skin types because it’s highly absorbent.
How To Use Charcoal & Clay Masks
Charcoal
If you purchase a charcoal mask, it’s best to follow your brand’s directions.
However, if you make your own charcoal masks, you’ll want to cleanse your skin, apply the mask, and leave it on for 10-15 minutes for the best results.
Clay
There is still a broad debate about whether you should let clay masks dry down.
For the best results, always follow the directions that your brand has given you.
However, if you make your own, it’s best to monitor your skin’s reaction.
A good rule of thumb is to let the mask sit for 10-15 minutes.
Can You Use Them Both?
If you have combination skin or different conditions on various facial areas, you can benefit from multi-masking.
This includes using two different masks on contrasting regions of the face.
For example, you can use a charcoal mask on your t-zone, which is often oilier, and a clay mask on your cheeks, which is often drier.
There are products and DIY recipes that combine activated charcoal and clay into a single mask.
However, you should proceed with caution; while it may not be for everyone, some people see benefits in using both components in a single mask.
Anyone can gain benefits from the right balance of charcoal and clay masks.
In addition, you gain a fun and relaxing step in your self-care routine.
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