Why You Should Add Clay to Your Hair Routine
Clay has been used for cosmetic purposes for millenniums. As the rise of the ‘Clean Beauty’ trend persists, many are looking for alternatives for their regimen. Many shampoos can strip the hair, leaving it dry, brittle, and frizzy and co-washes can leave behind a gross residue. If you’ve grown tired of shampoos and co-washing, consider trying out a clay rinse or clay mask.
Benefits
Clay cleans your hair by acting as an antibacterial, detoxifying, and lifting the oil from your scalp without stripping the hair. Oil is removed when the clay dries and contracts on your hair, absorbing it without leaving it dead and lifeless. In fact, your hair can feel more moisturized and softer after a clay rinse or mask. If you have curly or kinky hair using a clay mask can help define and elongate your curls, minimizing shrinkage by clumping your curls, giving you the body and bounce you crave. Clay also contains many minerals and nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and iron, adding to the overall health of your hair.
Types of Clay
Bentonite Clay
Bentonite clay is a volcanic ash clay from the Smectite group. Bentonite has a strong negative charge that attracts the positive charged substances like toxins, oils, metals, and bacteria. Out of all the clays, it has the highest absorption rate and is the go-to clay if you want to detoxify and refresh your hair. It is the best for removing buildup and product residue from your scalp and tresses while reducing frizz. However, if you have particularly dry hair or scalp, you might find bentonite clay too drying.
Rhassoul Clay
Rhassoul clay also called ghassoul clay, red clay, or Moroccan clay is another volcanic ash clay. Unlike, Bentonite clay, Rhassoul clay has a medium absorption rate. If you suffer from dry scalp Rhassoul clay would be a good alternative as it can cleanse while leaving your hair strands still soft and moisturized, making it easier to detangle. It can also help heal minor wounds or scalp irritations because it has the highest variety of mineral content of all the clays mentioned. It contains minerals like silica, calcium, potassium, sodium, and iron.
Kaolin Clay
Also known as China clay, Kaolin clay is found in the soil in hot climates, particularly East Asia. Out of all three clays listed, it has the lowest absorption rate and will be the gentlest on your scalp. It has brightening qualities and promotes hair growth by stimulating blood flow on the scalp while it gently cleanses away impurities. If you have a sensitive or really dry scalp Kaolin clay might be the most beneficial for you to use.
How to Make Your Own Clay Mask
Because I’m indecisive I like to use all three clays in my clay masks! If you’d rather only use one clay or two that’s fine just remember to adjust the measurements. This mixture should yield enough for the average person, but you can adjust based on your hair density and length.
Step 1: Gather your materials. You’ll need Bentonite, Rhassoul, and Kaolin clay. I buy mine off eBay, but you can also find them on Amazon. Make sure to buy the pure forms of each. You’ll need a medium mixing bowl, a mixing instrument, measuring spoons, a measuring cup, your favorite hair oil, apple cider vinegar, and your favorite essential oil. DO NOT use a metal mixing bowl or mixing instrument as the clay will adsorb the metals. Ceramic, plastic, rubber, or glass is fine.
I like to use ACV for extra shine, but you can substitute aloe vera for extra moisture.
Step 2: Pour ½ cup of Rhassoul clay, 1/3 cup of Bentonite clay, and 1/4of Kaolin clay into your mixing bowl. Add 1 cup of room temperature water, 3 tablespoons of ACV, 2 tablespoons of hair oil, and 2-3 drops of an essential oil. Mix it together until all the clumps are gone and it is a smooth consistency.
Step 3: Apply to your hair, damp or dry, making sure it is evenly distributed. You can do this in the shower to avoid any mess or place a towel around your shoulders if you prefer to wash it out in the sink. Leave it in your hair for 15-20 minutes and then rinse out. Then admire your results as I’m sure your hair is softer and shinier!