For me, clay masks are a seasonal thing.
I use them a lot in summer when my skin stubbornly insists on pumping out more oil than it needs (so annoying!). The last thing I wanna do is deal with pimples, so I soak up all that excess with a clay mask before it can do any damage (you know, breakouts and all that).
But in winter my skin gets dry. There’s not even a tiny drop of excess oil to be seen anywhere. Ok, maybe there is one tiny one on my forehead, but not enough to justify the use of a clay mask. Clays can be terribly drying and I don’t want to make things worse.
But, lately, I’ve come across a type of clay that I can use all year round. It does the oil-absorbing job like all the other types of clays, of course, BUT it also moisturizes skin.
I’m talking about Rhassoul clay.
What Is Rhassoul Clay?
Rhassoul clay goes by many names:
- Ghassoul clay
- Moroccan clay
- Red clay
Like you’ve probably figured out already, it has a reddish brown colour and comes directly from the lake beds of the Atlas Mountains of Morocco.
Moroccan women have used it to take care of their skin and hair for centuries with wonderful results. So, the anecdotal evidence is there.
But, what does the science says?
Struggling to put together a skincare routine that soaks up excess oil, gets rid of blackheads, and banishes acne? Download your FREE “Best Skincare Routine For Oily Skin” to get started (it features product recommendations + right application order):
What Does Rhassoul Clay Do For The Skin (And Hair)?
Rhassoul clay can be used as a facial mask, cleanser and even shampoo. What makes it so special?
It’s unique mineral composition. Rhassoul clay is made up of:
- Magnesium:Â It strengthens the skin’s barrier and helps repair skin
- Silica: Involved in the production of collagen, it helps firm and moisturize skin
- Stevensite: It has powerful anti-irritant and anti-inflammatory properties that soothe skin.
These minerals make Rhassoul clay a beauty superhero that can:
- Absorb excess oil and other impurities
- Moisturize skin, making it softer and smoother
- Help wounds heal faster
- Soothe irritations, psoriasis and even dandruff
- Cleanse skin and hair
- Make hair easier to detangle and style
It’s quite the multi-tasker, isn’t it?
Does Rhassoul Clay Have Any Side Effects?
Rhassoul clay is gentler than other types of clays, like bentonite. But there’s always the tiny chance it could bother sensitive skin (it’s called “sensitive” for a reason, after all).
What Are The Best Skincare Products With Rhassoul Clay?
Just go to Amazon. You’ll find plenty there. If you find that overwhelming, check out my top 3 picks:
- Kella Cosmetics 100% Natural Moroccan Clay ($11.95)
- Naturalicious Moroccan Rhassoul 5-in-1 Clay Treatment ($23.00)
- Poppy Austin 100% Organic Rhassoul Clay And Facial Mask ($18.52)
The Bottom Line
If you’ve always avoided clay masks because of their drying factor, give Rhassoul clay a go. It’s a multi-tasker that cleanses, soothes and moisturizes. You can even use it as shampoo!
