Kaolin Clay, also called China clay, is a naturally occurring soft clay discovered at the Kao-Ling Mountain in South-East China. Kaolin is one of the mildest and purest of all natural clays. It can be used on even the most sensitive skin.
Clay face masks that contain kaolin are thought to have several benefits, such as preventing acne, managing dry skin, and absorbing excess oil or sebum. Kaolin is also thought to be the mildest and most gentle clay used in skin care.
Benefits of Kaolin Clay include:
1. It’s great for absorbing excess oil.
This is true of every shade of kaolin clay, which penetrates the pores when applied wet—then draws away oil as it dries. What’s exceptional about kaolin clay, though, is its ability to do so without pulling away too much of your skin’s moisture with it. “Bentonite clay, on the other hand, is derived from volcanic ash, and has a much greater drying effect on the skin,” says Joshua Zeichner, MD. In fact, bentonite clay has a water absorption rate that’s five times higher than kaolin clay.2. It soaks up acne-causing impurities.
Green kaolin clay, which derives its color from ancient plant matter and iron oxides, absorbs dirt and bacteria at the same time it draws away oil. This is due to its slightly higher absorption rate than white kaolin clay, says Dr. Sobel. If you need an extra-strength skin detoxifier, a green kaolin clay facial mask is a great option.3. It gives you the ultimate glow.
Because kaolin clay often has a slightly grainy texture, it’s an ideal gentle exfoliator. As you massage it into your skin, this exfoliating clay not only buffs away dead skin cells, it also promotes blood flow to the complexion. “Yellow kaolin clay is especially perfect for stimulating circulation in the skin and provides a rejuvenated look,” says Dr. Sobel. Exfoliate with kaolin clay, and you'll see softer, smoother, brighter skin both instantly and long-term.4. It soothes sensitive skin.
It might sound counterintuitive that such a powerful blemish-fighter can also calm the complexion, but it’s true, says Dr. Zeichner. It has mild healing and inflammation-fighting properties that make it as useful for soothing facial redness and irritation as battling itchy bug bites or rashes, especially in the case of pink kaolin clay.
Frula products containing this ingredient:
