By Swati Kumar
Hey everyone,
Clay masks have become quite popular over the years, owing to its ability to draw out impurities effectively and tighten the pores on our skin. The mineral content in clay also helps to rejuvenate the skin, and it is so popular that even Cleopatra was an avid user of clay masks. But, there a few things that must be kept in mind while using clay masks.
Read on to know more about them.
1. Exfoliate Your Face:
Before applying a clay mask, it is important to slough off all dead skin cells, dirt, and makeup that are present on your skin. Otherwise, it can form a barrier to the clay mask, and clog up the pores further. Exfoliation of the face will ensure that the clay mask has a uniform application.
2. Steam Your Face:
In order to get the most out of the clay mask’s ability to draw out impurities, it is necessary to expose the open pores to the mask so that they can be thoroughly cleansed. Simply boil some hot water and allow the steam to open up the pores on your face. Alternatively, you can use a hot towel and lightly dab the face to open the pores.
3. Mix With Water to Get a Perfect Consistency:
Some clay masks are thin in consistency and go on smoothly whereas other clay masks that are specifically targeted for removing excess oil on the face are quite thick. To make the application easier, simply mix in a small amount of rose water or drinking water to get a perfect consistency. This will ensure that you don’t have to pull or stretch your skin for applying the mask.
4. Apply a Thin Layer:
Most of us believe that applying a thick layer ensures that the effects of the mask will be more. This is not true. Applying extra mask simply wastes the product and does not ensure an even application. Applying a thin layer over a clean face is enough for the mask to cleanse the skin.
5. Avoid the Eye and Lip Area Strictly:
Since we do not have many oil glands near the mouth and eye area, applying a clay mask in these regions might strip the little oil that is left. This drastically dries out these regions in comparison to the rest of face. Moreover, while removing the mask it can cause premature wrinkles and fine lines.
6. Do Not Let Mask to Dry Completely:
A common myth for a clay mask to work is to allow it to dry completely. A mask has two stages – in the first stage the minerals from the mask are absorbed by the skin and impurities are pulled out. In the next stage, the mask starts to pull out moisture from the skin. This results in a dry, tight and irritated skin. Hence, it is necessary to remove the mask before it dries completely.
7. Massage Off the Mask Gently:
Removing the mask can be a hassle, and if dealt harshly, it can damage the skin. To remove the mask thoroughly, wet the face with lukewarm water. Start massaging the mask in circular motions to gently remove it. Repeat the steps again if necessary.
8. Rinse Face with Cold Water:
After washing off the mask, our pores are still open and susceptible to clogging by dirt and oil. To close the pores, simply splash your face with cold water. Alternatively, use a clean ice cube and rub it over the face to shrink the pores. The ice will also help to calm and soothe the skin.
9. Avoid Using Comedogenic Creams Right After:
Our skin tends to feel dry and stretched after using clay masks, and for counter effect, we slather on heavy moisturisers. The oil and moisture have just been stripped off from the skin. So, it will take in the heavy moisturiser and clog up the pores. Use an oil-free gel or cream that will hydrate and moisturise the skin without clogging the pores.
10. Set Up a Clay Mask Routine:
Depending on your skin type, set up a clay mask routine. This will allow your skin to get used to the routine of cleaning up the pores. At least repeat this once a week as the climate and pollution tend to make our skin more susceptible to accumulating dirt. For oily skinned people, using a clay mask three times a week. Mature skin requires clay mask usage sparingly.
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