Benefits of clays in cosmetology
Even though the clays have a different composition and morphology depending on their source, they all have some common characteristics: their structure is predominantly silicates; their particles have a colloidal magnitude and a high absorption rate.
The small particle size gives a high specific surface, thus a high absorption capacity, a very useful property for oily and impure skin. Mixed with water and directly applied on the skin, it increases body temperature allowing a better penetration of active ingredients.
Different types of masks can be obtained when the Clay is mixed with water, tonic lotion, thermal spring water or flower water in different proportions according to the grade of consistency and benefits to obtain.
Facial, corporal or capillary masks.
Facial and corporal mud offer different properties, according to needs: hydrating, regenerating, cellular stimulation and more. The result is a younger and healthier look and an increase in the effectiveness of later cosmetic treatments. In fact, if skin cells are tired or aged, they become incapable of absorbing the active substances in cosmetic treatments like moisturizers, anti-wrinkles and anti-ageing treatments etc. Clay contains the necessary minerals and oligoelements to activate the functions of the skin by stimulating its cellular metabolism.
MAGNESIUM necessary for the correct functioning of the enzymes that control the metabolism of the skin.
CALCIUM essential for the correct structure of the skeleton, the nails and the metabolism of the skin.
IRON that influences the formation of melanin and is a carrier of oxygen.
SILICATES important in re-structuring skin tissues, prevention of flaccidity and improvement of muscular tone.
SODIUM fundamental for correct cell growth and regulation of osmotic pressure together with chlorides.
ZINC fundamental for correct cell growth and the lack of which could provoke alopecia, dermatitis and wound healing problems.
Clay is found in many cosmetic compositions, shampoos, creams, masks. It is useful like thickener, binder, in order to give consistency to the product and it replaces thus, the oily substances. The cosmetic success of clays is due especially to the fact that it offers a strong adhesion on the consecutive skin to the hydrogen bonds, connections which facilitate on the one hand the diffusion of pore water towards the skin and on the other hand, the local heating which ensures a dilation of the pores and contributes to the hydration.
The therapeutic virtues of clay (external or internal use) are not questioned anymore today. The hydration is certainly the most spectacular action. The effect can be surprising on the level of appearance, especially on aging or dehydrated skin. It is admitted that this power of hydration, although temporary, is accompanied by cleansing of the skin by an effective drainage of the organic and mineral impurities. The Clay masks prepared by water imbibition constitute particular cosmetic products whose application is easy and within the range of all. The use of the facial and body masks is a very old practice. Therapeutic virtues are allotted to the clay mud baths and their recognized effectiveness of long date is put into practice in many reknowned Spas.
The clay masks, like other cosmetic compositions, must associate facilitated spreading application with a good behaviour after the application.