From Earth to Bar: Clay in my soaps, masks, shampoo bars, shave soaps and whipped soaps
- Lisa Cobb
- Sep 17
- 5 min read
When I first started my journey into the world of natural skincare, I was captivated by the vibrant colors and textures of clays. These earth-born minerals not only add beautiful hues to my soaps and masks but also bring a sense of calm and balance to my skincare routine. Today, I want to share how clays have transformed my products and why they hold a special place in my heart.
Clays are mineral-rich powders that come from the earth, and they have been used for centuries in various cultures for their healing properties. In my creations, they serve multiple purposes: from providing natural color to enhancing the texture and benefits of my soaps, hair masks, and skin treatments. Let’s dive into the world of clays and explore how they can elevate your skincare routine.
The Magic of Clays
Clays are not just pretty colors; they are packed with minerals that can benefit your skin and hair in numerous ways. When I incorporate clays into my products, I aim for a natural color that is gentle on the skin while providing a silky slip and gentle polish.
For instance, in my shave soaps, clays create a smooth surface for the razor to glide over, ensuring a comfortable shave. In shampoo bars, they help balance the scalp and add grip for easier rinsing, reducing that annoying squeak we often experience with traditional shampoos.
When it comes to skin masks, the type of clay I choose can either clarify or soothe, depending on the needs of your skin. I balance these clays with humectants to ensure hydration and nourishment. For hair masks, clays can lift oil from the roots, calm the scalp, and add volume to fine hair. And let’s not forget about whipped soaps, which have a cloud-soft texture and pastel hues that make your daily routine feel like a treat.
Clay by Clay: A Closer Look
French Green Clay
Originating from the mineral-rich deposits of France, French Green Clay is known for its vibrant color and detoxifying properties. It’s often used in soaps for its ability to absorb excess oil and impurities, making it ideal for oily skin types.
In my products, French Green Clay not only adds a beautiful green hue but also provides a gentle polish that leaves the skin feeling refreshed and clean.
French Pink Clay
French Pink Clay is a blend of red and white clays, making it perfect for sensitive skin. Its gentle nature helps to soothe and balance, making it a great choice for those with dry or irritated skin.
I love using French Pink Clay in my whipped soaps, as it gives a soft pastel color while providing a calming effect on the skin.
Cambrian Blue Clay
This unique clay is sourced from ancient deposits in Siberia and is known for its striking blue color. Cambrian Blue Clay is rich in minerals and is excellent for detoxifying the skin.
In my masks, it helps to clarify and rejuvenate, leaving the skin looking vibrant and healthy.
Dead Sea Clay/Mud
Hailing from the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea, this clay is packed with beneficial minerals that can help with various skin conditions. It’s particularly effective for oily and acne-prone skin, as it helps to draw out impurities and excess oil.
I often use Dead Sea Clay in my masks for its clarifying properties, ensuring a deep clean without stripping the skin of its natural moisture.
Fuller's Earth
Fuller's Earth is a natural clay that has been used for centuries for its oil-absorbing properties. It’s particularly beneficial for oily skin types, as it helps to remove excess sebum and impurities.
I love using Fuller's Earth clays in my shampoo bars and hair masks, as it helps to balance the scalp and provides a gentle cleanse without harsh surfactants.
Bentonite Clay
Bentonite Clay is known for its ability to absorb toxins and impurities, making it a popular choice for detoxifying masks. It’s also great for oily hair, as it helps to lift oil from the roots and add volume.
In my shave soaps, Bentonite clay provides a smooth slip for the razor, ensuring a comfortable shave while keeping the skin balanced.
Kaolin Clay
Kaolin Clay is one of the gentlest clays available, making it suitable for all skin types. It’s often used in masks and soaps for its soothing properties and ability to gently exfoliate.
In my whipped soaps, Kaolin Clay adds a soft texture and pastel hue, making your daily routine feel luxurious.
Rhassoul Clay
Rhassoul Clay, sourced from Morocco, is known for its ability to absorb oil and impurities while providing essential minerals to the skin. It’s particularly beneficial for curly hair, as it helps to define curls and add moisture.
I often use Rhassoul Clay in my shampoo bars, as it helps to lift oil from the roots while keeping the hair hydrated and bouncy.
Moroccan Red Clay
This clay is rich in iron oxide, giving it a beautiful reddish hue. Moroccan Red Clay is known for its ability to improve skin tone and texture, making it a great choice for masks.
In my products, it adds a lovely color while providing gentle exfoliation and nourishment.
Purple Kaolin Clay
Purple Kaolin Clay is a blend of red and white clays, making it perfect for sensitive skin. It’s known for its soothing properties and ability to balance the skin.
I love using Purple Kaolin Clay in my whipped soaps, as it provides a soft texture and calming effect on the skin.
Practical Applications by Skin Type and Hair Needs
When it comes to choosing the right clay for your skin or hair, it’s essential to consider your specific needs. Here’s a quick guide to help you select the best clay for your skincare routine:
Oily Skin
Best Clays: French Green Clay, Fuller's Earth, Bentonite Clay
Benefits: Absorbs excess oil, detoxifies, and clarifies the skin.
Dry/Sensitive Skin
Best Clays: French Pink Clay, Kaolin Clay, Purple Kaolin Clay
Benefits: Soothes irritation, balances moisture, and provides gentle exfoliation.
Combination Skin
Best Clays: Rhassoul Clay, Moroccan Red Clay
Benefits: Balances oil production while nourishing dry areas.
Curly/Wavy Hair
Best Clays: Rhassoul Clay, Bentonite Clay
Benefits: Defines curls, adds moisture, and lifts oil from the roots.
Shampoo Bars
Best Clays: Bentonite Clay, French Green Clay
Benefits: Balances the scalp, adds grip for easier rinsing, and reduces squeak.
Conclusion
Incorporating clays into my soaps, masks, shampoo bars, shave soaps, and whipped soaps has been a game-changer for my skincare routine. Not only do they provide beautiful colors and textures, but they also offer a range of benefits for different skin and hair types.
If you’re curious about how I use each clay and the specific benefits they offer, I invite you to check out the "Know Your Ingredients" tab on rowanroots.com.
Embrace the earth-born colors and discover the real purpose of clays in your skincare routine. Your skin and hair will thank you!
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