When it comes to skincare, using clay is about as true to indulging in nature as you can get. Why? Clay provides a slightly grainy texture for exfoliation and nutrients to nourish the skin, and it's jam-packed with minerals making clay a perfect ingredient for skin care.
Clay is famous for its ability to draw dirt, oils and toxins out of the skin, resulting in noticeably deeply cleansed, toned, and softened skin. Pop on a clay mask once or twice a week. It's a relaxing, enjoyable ritual that results in cleaner, softer, lovelier skin!
Key Benefits of Using Powered Clay Face Masks
1. CleanseÂ
Wash your face with warm water and soap or a gentle cleanser. This gives the mask a clean start, allowing for better penetration.
If you like, you can even begin with a herbal steam facial, for an extra special cleansing experience. Pat dry.
2. Make the maskÂ
Pop a wee tablespoon or two of clay in a bowl. Add enough water to make a paste. The mixture should be just thick enough to spread. If you make it too thick, it won't dry on your skin. Too thin, and it'll run off.Â
If you are feeling creative try adding other liquid ingredients, such as milk, yogurt, honey, juices or egg whites in place of the water in the mask. Our favourite is cold almond milk.Â
If you want an extra oomph try a herbal infusion â calendula oil to soften and smooth, aloe vera to heal, lavender to cleanse and inspire relaxation, peppermint to cool and refresh, etc.Â
3. Apply the maskÂ
Apply the paste with our mini face mask applicator brush or your fingertips, covering all of the skin except the skin around your eyes.
4. Relax & Unwind
Allow the paste to dry. This is a good time to lie down and relax to let the mask do its job for a few minutes.Â
5. RinseÂ
Rinse the clay off gently with warm water. Use a wet washcloth to finish up, if needed. Follow with a rinse of cool water. Then finish with a toner and/or moisturiser of choice.Â
HOW TO CHOOSE A CLAY?
For best results, choose quality clay. Quality clays are pure (free of contamination, with no colouring or other additives) and they're processed in a way that maintains their mineral content. There are a variety of clays, each with its own special benefits.Â
French Green Clay
With its high mineral and nutrient content and micro molecules (which enhance absorption). Green Clay is the most effective clay to draw impurities and toxins from the skin because it's very absorbent, it's especially good for oily skin. This clay tone stimulates and cleanses the pores.
We combine French Green clay, with other organic and skin-loving ingredients of maca, matcha green tea and coconut milk  in our Powerhouse Green Clay Face Mask
French Pink ClayÂ
Similar to French green clay powder but richer in iron oxide (hence the colour). Pink Clay improves skin softness and is ideal for all skin types. It is very soft and can be used on fragile, dehydrated or sensitive skin. It is often a favourite selection to use on the chest, thighs, stomach and upper arms due to its gentle, yet effective nature. It is also beneficial to use on mature skin, lined or wrinkled skin.Â
We combine a stunning mix of French Pink, Rose clay and Kaolin clay with vegan and organic ingredients like aloe vera, beetroot and coconut milk to form a deeply nourishing Boost Pink Clay Face Mask
Kaolin Clay
A very mild clay, Kaolin powder that gently cleanses and exfoliates without drawing oil, perfect for sensitive skin types. At the same time, its astringent effect is suitable for normal to oily skin. In addition to clay masks, the fine, fluffy powder is used in body powders and deodorants, soap products, and body packs.
Brazilian Black ClayÂ
Brazilian Black Clay is rich in minerals including Magnesium and Potassium. Studies have shown it to have sebum-regulating effects as well as mild anti-dandruff properties. Benefits include detoxification and sebum control suitable for all skin types.
We combine detoxifying mineral-packed, Brazilian black clay, kaolin clay, turmeric and activated charcoal in our Refined Black Clay Face Mask
New Zealand Glacial Clay
A high-purity Bentonite Clay has been processed to ensure very low levels of impurities and grit. It is composed of aged volcanic ash. It has the unique ability to produce an âelectrical chargeâ when hydrated. When mixed with water, its electrical components change, allowing it to absorb toxins.
Bentonite is used to detoxify toxins, heavy metals, chemicals and other impurities from the skin. Due to the nature of the volcanic ash and the fresh glacial water environment, it also contains other healing clays such as kaolinite, illite and montmorillonite.Â
We combine mineral-packed NZ Glacial Clay, NZ manuka honey, oats and cacao in our Tuned Out Glacial Clay Face Mask
Why use a Powered Clay Mask?Â
We think Natural Powered Clay Masks are beneficial for the skin and the experience provides a form of mind-wellness in the mixing, applying and relaxing ritual.Â
Designed to be waterless to eliminate the need for preservatives, our masks come in a powder form and a range of liquids can be added that provide extra benefits to the skin like some essential oils (that are safe for the face) and natural liquids such as almond milk, coconut milk, banana, natural yogurt or honey to form a bespoke mask you will love. We call it the art of masking!
We combine rustic, earth-loving brush and bowl face mask essentials Hand-Made Clay Bowl andÂ
Mini Face Mask Brush and Reusable Microfibre Cloth
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Application with these types of masks requires a little more care to make and apply but the benefits of non-toxic natural ingredients outweigh that. Clay is free from sulphates, parabens and preservatives.Â
 Browse our rustic Clay Bowl & Brush Sets Â
We would love to hear your favourite clay mask combinations and tag us using your Bumble & Birdie Face Mask.
If you would like to hear more from us, indulging in nature, product how-to's and our adventures resourcing our raw ingredients.Â
Until next time, keep it clean,
Bumble & Birdie NZ TaupÅ Crew
Powered Clay Face Masks are changing the face of skincare, literally. These unique, potent masks harness the ageless benefits of clay, supercharged with power-packed skin-loving ingredients for a healthier, radiant skin.
The secret behind the popularity of Powered Clay Face Masks lies in the blend of clay, which naturally detoxifies and exfoliates, with added components tailored for different skincare needs. These masks appeal to all skin types, and provide targeted solutions for skincare concerns from acne to aging.
Embracing the trend of Powered Clay Face Masks is a sure way to elevate your skincare routine. Choose your perfect fit and start your journey to a more beautiful, confident you.