Bentonite clay is the base of countless homemade face masks. On its own it mixes with water into a smooth grey-green paste, and it combines easily with kitchen-cupboard ingredients. Here are six easy bentonite clay mask recipes to try. For the full basics, read our step-by-step guide to using bentonite clay.
Bentonite clay is for external use only. Do not eat or drink it.
Before you start
- Patch test: apply a little of the mixed paste to the inside of your elbow 48 hours before using it on your face or scalp, and don't use it if you notice any irritation.
- Mix in a glass, ceramic or wooden bowl with a wooden or plastic spoon.
- Apply to clean skin, avoiding the eyes and lips, and don't use on broken or sore skin.
- Rinse off before the mask dries completely, then moisturise.
- Each recipe makes one mask. Mix it fresh each time.
1. Classic bentonite clay and water mask
Mix 1 tablespoon of clay with 1 to 2 tablespoons of water to a smooth paste. Apply a thin layer, leave for 5 to 15 minutes and rinse with warm water.
2. Apple cider vinegar clay mask
Mix 1 tablespoon of clay with 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and 1 tablespoon of water. It will fizz as you stir. Apply for 5 to 10 minutes and rinse. This is the strongest mix here, so start with a short time.
3. Honey and clay mask
Mix 1 tablespoon of clay with 1 teaspoon of runny honey and enough water to make a smooth paste. Apply for 10 minutes and rinse.
4. Yoghurt and clay mask
Mix 1 tablespoon of clay with 1 to 2 tablespoons of plain yoghurt. This makes a creamier, gentler-feeling mask. Apply for 10 minutes and rinse.
5. Aloe vera and clay mask
Mix 1 tablespoon of clay with 1 teaspoon of aloe vera powder and 2 to 3 tablespoons of water, or use ready-made aloe vera gel. Apply for 10 minutes and rinse.
6. Rose petal and clay mask
Mix 1 tablespoon of clay with 1 teaspoon of rose petal powder and enough rose water or plain water to make a paste. It has a soft floral scent. Apply for 10 minutes and rinse.
Bonus: oat and clay scrub mask
Add 1 teaspoon of finely ground oats to any of the recipes above. Once the mask has been on for a few minutes, wet your fingertips and massage gently in small circles as you rinse it off.
How often should you use a clay mask?
Once or twice a week suits most people. Clay can feel drying, so always follow with a moisturiser, and use it less often if your skin feels tight.
Want more ideas? Try our Ayurvedic face masks.
Shop our Premium Bentonite Clay Powder.
