INGREDIENT SPOTLIGHT: CLAY

This week, we’re excited to introduce a new series highlighting the all-natural ingredients we use in our handcrafted skincare line. Prior to starting Urban Oreganics, I spent a great deal of time scouring Pinterest for DIY beauty products. One ingredient I kept reading about over and over were pure cosmetic clays. They are found in many skincare and cosmetic items on the market shelves. All-natural, quality clays offer important minerals, drawing abilities, and detoxification properties for skin health.

TYPES OF CLAY

Throughout time, indigenous cultures have used various types of clays for wellness. Even in nature, many animals will consume various clays and dirt to remove toxins from their systems. There are several different types of pure cosmetic clays used in the beauty industry, however, most of our line source two, Kaolin and Bentonite. We occasionally use others like French Pink Clay and Cambrian Blue Clay for seasonal items. While clay cannot be certified organic, the clay we source is all natural, sourced sustainably, and certified lead-free.

Kaolin Clay is a very fine and light clay that has natural absorbency properties. It is the mildest of all natural cosmetic clays and perfect to use for those with sensitive skin. Kaolin naturally helps to stimulate circulation while gently exfoliating and cleansing skin.

Bentonite Clay is one of the most popular cosmetic clays. It comes from naturally occurring aged volcanic ash sediments. Once bentonite becomes hydrated, the electrical and molecular components of the clay produce an electrical charge that is able to attract dirt, toxins, and heavy metals.

USING CLAY IN OUR PRODUCTS

Because of the incredible benefits of Kaolin and Bentonite Clay, we use a mix of the two as a base for all our facial masks. We also use Kaolin as the base for all our cleansing grains as it is gentle enough for all skin types. The only exception to this is our Refresh cleansing grains as those are made using French Green Clay. French Green Clay possesses absorbent powers due to the constitution of its micro molecules. It sufficiently removes oils, toxic substances, and impurities from your skin. Its toning action stimulates the skin and is great for helping to clear occasional skin blemishes. 

Additionally, our Dry Shampoos use Kaolin Clay as a base due to the absorbency properties. It works wonderfully to remove oil and impurities from the scalp, and since it is lightweight, it does not clump in your hair and washes out easily.

For our Tooth Powder, we chose Bentonite Clay as the base because it removes toxins, chemicals, impurities, and heavy metals - the perfect defense for your oral health.

Our new Konjac Facial Sponges are super soft, help improve skin texture and promote absorption, while efficiently removing blackheads. These biodegradable sponges gently brush and massage the skin to remove dirt, oil, makeup residue, bacteria, dry skin & other impurities. Not only are these sponges available with activated charcoal infused, but we also have two clay options as well:

• French Green Clay is perfect for normal and combination skins. It is naturally full of minerals to help even skin complexion and texture, and improve the appearance of scars.
• French Pink Clay is perfect for dry and sensitive skin. It soothes, brightens and purifies while being gentle on the skin.

Once I read about the amazing benefits of pure cosmetic clays, I knew they would be a staple in our natural skincare line. How have the benefits of clays helped you?