Kaolin
Got reservations about Aztec clay? Try kaolin clay. This finely ground clay is often mixed with plant extracts and oils for additional skin care benefits, and to keep unwanted shine away.
Have oily skin? You’ll love it: The clay absorbs excess skin sebum, which can help with preventing acne and oiliness. After product use, some clay will stay left behind on the skin which stops oily shine from developing throughout the day.
In most cases, kaolin clay does not need to dry completely to be effective. If the mask is difficult to remove, it can be soaked off with a damp cloth. They should be used 1 to 2 times per week.
Where to find it: This popular ingredient is in rinse-off clay face masks, especially for oily skin. You can also buy loose powder to make DIY clay masks or look for it in makeup setting powders and lotions since it has mattifying properties.
If an oily complexion, lots of little blackheads, or a shiny T-zone are skin concerns of yours, you already know all about the wonders of clay masks. But when it comes to choosing the right clay for your skin (never mind finding the right mask), things might not be as crystal clear.
KAOLIN CLAY
TYPE OF INGREDIENT: Absorbent, drying agent
MAIN BENEFITS: Binds sebum, removes excess oil, mattifies, and draws out impurities.
WHO SHOULD USE IT: In general, those with oily or breakout-prone skin looking to control oil and shine would benefit from using kaolin in their skincare routines, but the ingredient is safe for most skin types.
HOW OFTEN CAN YOU USE IT: Hirsch says for most people, kaolin can be used to treat an oily complexion as little as once a week, but Cook-Bolden says it can be used up to four times weekly, depending on the patient.
WORKS WELL WITH: Cook-Bolden says other botanicals and minerals that can heal, soothe, and calm the skin can be used along with kaolin, and Hirsch suggests trying chamomile for its potential soothing benefits.
DON'T USE WITH: Cook-Bolden says it’s a good idea to avoid using other drying agents in conjunction with kaolin as well as medications taken orally that may interact with kaolin, such as digoxin, quinidine, and trimethoprim. "Kaolin might decrease the rapidity of clindamycin absorption," Cook-Bolden adds. "However, it is not felt to decrease the amount of clindamycin that is absorbed."
What is Kaolin?
Kaolin (also referred to as white clay, China clay, hectorite, or magnesium silicate) is a type of soft clay found in nature, but can also be produced synthetically in a laboratory. It serves many different purposes, including uses in medicines and makeup, but in regards to skincare, kaolin adds absorbency and texture and is used as a drying agent, as Cook-Bolden explains it. Unlike some other clays, kaolin is known for being gentle on the skin, which makes it safe for most skin types.
Although kaolin doesn't boast a wide range of skin benefits and it might not be the most multipurpose of skincare ingredients, it's an effective treatment for an oily complexion and could be a great addition to your weekly skincare routine for the following reasons:
- Binds sebum: According to Cook-Bolden, kaolin absorbs excess sebum (the oily substance our skin makes) and moisture in oily skin.
- Controls oil and shine: Got a shiny T-zone? Kaolin can mattify your complexion by removing excess oil from the skin's surface.
- Draws out impurities: "Kaolin complements acne therapy regimens as it effectively draws out impurities from deep within the skin, dries up blackheads, absorbs excess oils, and minimizes the appearance of pores, leaving the skin feeling soft and smooth," Cook-Bolden explains.
Side Effects of Kaolin
Although kaolin is a pretty benign ingredient and considered to be a safe substance when used in personal care products by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel, Hirsch says if it's used too frequently, it can be quite drying. "If you suffer from very dry skin, you may want to avoid kaolin," Cook-Bolden adds. "Otherwise, there are no real contraindications to using it on the skin."
How to Use It
The manner in which kaolin should be applied to the skin depends on the product in question. With that said, kaolin is most commonly used in the form of a mask, and Hirsh generally recommends applying it once a week. Some (those who can tolerate it) can benefit from using the clarifying ingredient up to four times a week to control oil and shine, according to Cook-Bolden: "Actual usage will be determined based on the patient's skin condition."
If using it as a mask, Cook-Bolden recommends applying it liberally (depending on the oiliness of the skin) and leaving it on for 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing.