A DIY Clay Mask for Glowing, Ageless Skin
I’ll be honest: quarantine has my face looking pretty dull. Staying inside all day without any sunlight in the dry air has taken its toll on my skin. So recently, I decided to go back to a tried and true DIY treatment I love to make when my skin is looking lack-luster, and I’m so happy that I did.
My DIY face mask is made with three magic ingredients: honey, apple cider vinegar, and this Indian Healing Clay from Aztec Secret ($14.95, Amazon). When my skin is looking dry and my eyes tired, I put this mask on and let it sit for about 15 minutes before rinsing with warm water. Just like it says on the Indian healing clay container, you can actually feel your face tingle!
The Aztec Secret healing clay comes in powder form and is odorless. When mixed with a solvent, it turns into a clay paste that you use as your mask. The instructions say you can use water or apple cider vinegar, but I find that the consistency and results are better when using apple cider vinegar. It doesn’t smell great, but the results are worth it.
The Aztec Secret healing clay is calcium bentonite clay that is said to deeply cleanse the pores. In fact, it’s been used for centuries as a way to improve skin tone, promote detoxification, and so much more.
I became interested in bentonite clay when I read about its detoxifying properties. I was growing concerned about the harmful chemicals like pesticides, lead, and trace metals that we are exposed to every day, and read that bentonite clay can help absorb those toxins through the skin and prevent them from accumulating in the body and causing damage. It’s also been shown to promote skin healing, and you’ll find it in many skincare products.
I love apple cider vinegar as a beauty product. It is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, so it can help fight and clear breakouts. When applied topically, it can also help balance the skin’s pH which keeps it looking clear and fresh.
Honey adds a nice richness to this mask. Honey is a natural antibacterial and it contains antioxidants that fight the signs of skin aging. It’s also a humectant, meaning that it can help draw moisture into the skin. My skin always feels baby soft after applying this mask!
To make my DIY face mask, mix one tablespoon of clay, one tablespoon of AVC, and one tablespoon of honey in a small container until it forms a slightly slimy paste. As always, perform a test patch on your skin to ensure that there aren’t any adverse reactions. Once you’ve done your test patch, apply the paste all over your face and let it sit for 10 to 20 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
Apply this mask twice a week for best results. I’ve already noticed my dark circles getting lighter! Here’s to brighter, glowing skin.
