Green Illite
This is strong and draws out toxins, dirt and oils*. It is thought to be the best clay for oily hair and skin. Also, like most other clays it is great for exfoliating so that the skin can be rid of dead cells so it can breathe better. While all this is great, you might not want to run off and try this if you have sensitive skin because it is very strong and may cause irritation resulting in a rash.
Rhassoul Clay
This is found in regions in Morocco so it is also called Moroccan Red Clay. It is said to reduce dryness and improve elasticity, since it leaves a smooth, less brittle effect on thirsty strands. If you have issues with dandruff or psoriasis, you’ll probably want to make it a mainstay in your regimen as well.
The great thing is that these clays are great both your skin and your hair. If you buy the powdered form instead of a ready made mix, you can customize it to have the stuff you want in it such as your carrier and essential oils* and natural humectants. One thing most persons have been attesting to is that it gives great curl definition. No doubt that’s because of the increased moisture it draws to the hair.
One thing to bear in mind is that you should mix with a plastic or wooden spoon; no metal containers or utensils since it might react with the clay. You might also want to ensure you cover your nose with a scarf or dust mask to prevent inhalation of dust particles, just to be on the safe side.
Personally, I haven’t tried a clay wash but I know I’ll be trying it for my maximum hydration method challenge. After all I’ve found out about the benefits of clay washes, I’m inclined to agree in this instance, that it pays to get dirty.
Check out this video by FusionofCultures to get ideas on how you can make your own clay mix or mud wash.
Malakah Angellia Gladston says
No thanks. 🙂
maria says
Go for it! For me I will reserve the mud masks for pimpled oily skin that needs to be stripped of all oils and left feeling tight and as dry as the Sahara desert. I personally think mud masks are way to harsh to come anywhere near my hair. If you have very oily hair it may be good. My hair is delicate so I will RUN in the opposite direction !
Lunye' says
I love clay treatments…I use Bentonite, Soapnit and Rhassoul for cleansing…amla, neem, tulsi, hibiscus, kupur and others for a number of things, conditioning, treating the scalp…I use Henna, hibiscus and indigo for coloring…I have noticed a bid difference is how long my hair stays moisturized, length retention, less shedding, and a soother scalp since using them…most of mine I mix with a tea or aloe vera juice, I add a few capfuls of ACV, and oils my hair like…sometimes honey if it is humid out, coconut milk when I am using one to condition my hair….did an amla treatment on my friend last night and she loved the way her curls popped and how soft her hair felt after rinsing…Some are stronger than others, when using Bentonite or Soapnut, I have to use a good deep conditioner afterwards, but with Rhassoul you can opt not too, it cleanses and conditions…the others mentioned are all ayruvedic and I have had not issues with any of them drying out my hair, but I do add the oils and coconut milk to them also…
Lunye' says
Typo…Soapnut…
Zelphia says
I use Rhassoul clay mixture and my hair loves it!!
Mickalynn says
I am curious but my current regimen is locking in the upmost moisture. After finally finding something that works I am not feeling adventrous. I would love to see more people with my 4c hair type, trying the clay/mud before I step out into the unknown. Thanks for the good good knowledge even if i am a scaredy cat….
Honeyamber1 says
I bought Bentonite Clay about 8 months ago or so because I watched a few of my favorite Youtubers use it and I’ve got to admit, I’m excited to try it. I recently tried Henna, Amla, and Indigo for their conditioning, strengthening, coloring benefits and so far I like the results. Most of my grays are covered, hair’s shinier, less shedding and breakage, what more could a girl want!