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Clay is a natural compound that has been used since ancient times by man. It has always been widely used because of its absorbent, purifying and sanitizing properties. Its properties were probably discovered when humans observed animals rolling in mud to treat their wounds: from this empirical experience, man began to experiment with this ‘cure’ on himself. Galen praised its virtues for the health of the organism as a remedy for the beauty of the body; Pliny the Elder dedicated an entire chapter to its properties in his book 'Historia Naturalis.' The use of clay and the utilization of its properties was lost for a time, only to be rediscovered recently during the last Century.
White clay is used prolifically in cosmetic applications thanks to its grain size, color and plasticity (it has a high silica and aluminium content), especially for the preparation of beauty masks for face and hair, also as talcum powder for children. White clay purifies the epidermis and tightens pores, leaving the skin smooth, soft and radiant; it is also very useful for removing blackheads and fighting acne. The absence of allergens in its composition makes it well tolerated by all skin types, whether young or mature. Localized compresses can help combat stretch marks and water retention, or relieve pain and bruising. White clay is also good for hair, to make it healthier and stronger if it is weak and brittle, but also to combat hair loss. The white clay pack is especially good for oily hair.
For face masks: decant 1 tablespoon of white clay into a glass or ceramic container, add enough water to mix and stir until you get a very nice, shiny-looking white cream with a plastic consistency. You can add 3-10 drops of 100% pure essential oil and mix well. Apply the mask to the facial skin and leave it on for 15-20 minutes. Remove the white clay using a sponge moistened with lukewarm water, or with a hydrolate, or herbal tea (it is usually removed when dry). Repeat the treatment 1-3 times a week, depending on your skin type.
For hair masks: decant 1 tablespoon of white clay into a glass or ceramic container, add sufficient water and coconut/linseed/ castor oil to mix it to create a thick cream which you apply to all the hair, wet at first, and leave on for about 20 minutes. Then wash with a light shampoo and rinse with lukewarm or cold water. N.B. 3-10 drops of 100% pure essential oil can be added and mixed well.
For poultice treatments: use a larger quantity of white clay in proportion to the area to be treated, apply to the body and cover with a woollen cloth or bandage for at least 30 minutes. Always remove using a sponge dampened with lukewarm water, or a hydrolate, or even a herbal tea (usually removed when dry).
For partial baths: Dissolve 80-100 g of white clay in a bowl of lukewarm water and soak your hands/feet in it.
For full baths: dissolve 500 g of white clay in a bath tub filled with water, and then fully immerse the body.
Clays are the main constituents of the earth's surface. They play a vital role in the life of man, and nature’s kingdoms. In general, white clay is made up of a mix of minerals, in particular silicon (48%) and aluminium (36%), which give it its typical silvery-white color. White clay (or kaolin – from the Kao Ling region of China where the first deposit of white clay was discovered) is the essential ingredient for making beauty masks. Its special feature is that, being less absorbent than green clay, it is more suitable for sensitive skin (it does not dry out the skin and, just like a peel, very gently removes flaky cell fragments).
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