What is Kaolin Clay?  

Kaolin clay is an affordable beauty ingredient that has multiple benefits for the skin. Kaolin clay has been in use for more than 2600 years for its medicinal properties. It is formed from a sedimentary rock found in certain parts of the world. 

Kaolin clay is used in the preparation of various medicines such as kaolin poultice, Kaopectate, Kaolinite, and kaolin and morphine sulphate. Kaolin clay has a wide range of health benefits. 

The primary health benefits of this beneficial mineral are:

• Kaolin clay is good for treating ulcers, duodenal ulcers, gastric ulcers and chronic diarrhoea. 
• Kaolin clay can be used as a good antacid medication. 
• Kaolin clay is also beneficial for improving liver functions and preventing cancer. 
• Kaolin clay relieves menstrual pain and cramps in women.
• Kaolin clay improves the immune system of the body and promotes resistance against infections.

5 Beauty Benefits of Kaolin Clay

Kaolin clay has anti-bacterial properties and can decrease inflammation when it comes in contact with the skin.

Kaolin clay boosts the cleansing and purifying process of the skin by neutralizing toxins and other harmful substances that can cause acne, blackheads and whiteheads. Therefore, applying kaolin clay to the skin makes it clean and healthy. Here are some of the other benefits of applying kaolin clay to your skin:

It’s a gentle exfoliant because of its alkaline properties which can also remove dead skin cells that accumulate on top of the skin. This activates the body’s ability to produce more collagen, a protein that literally gives skin its structure and elasticity. 

Kaolin clay is a great way to improve the look and feel of your skin. It can be used for a wide range of health problems, including fungal infections of the skin, acne, chickenpox marks and reducing the appearance of scars.

The clay helps to reduce skin irritation by removing dirt and absorbing harmful impurities. It also has the ability to tighten pores, relax muscles, and relieve pain.

Kaolin clay is a naturally occurring clay mineral that’s widely available. It can exfoliate and smooth your skin by removing dead skin cells and is also believed to be a natural skin lightener. 

The anti-ageing benefits of kaolin clay are popular among western countries and the effectiveness of topical clay application has been known to improve collagen fibers in the skin. 

While home remedies and other modern remedies like kaolin clay claim to reduce and treat many skin issues, the evidence regarding these claims is not quite convincing. The most effective and natural treatment for aging is to use an anti-aging serum formulated with all-natural ingredients that are safe for topical use. 

How to Use Kaolin Clay for Skin?

Kaolin clay for face masks is one of the most common uses for the clay, but you can also use it for make-up removal. Clay is a drying substance, so if you have oily or acne-prone skin it may help your skin by drying out the excess oil.

Kaolin clay can be used for all skin types, but if you have sensitive skin, it's best to avoid it. If you're using kaolin clay for oily or acne-prone skin, use this recipe in moderation, as it's very drying.

A clay face mask is one of the easiest and most satisfying ways to detoxify your skin. It works because it contains kaolin clay, which absorbs oil, dirt, and impurities from the skin. 

Kaolin clay also has absorbent properties so it draws out toxins while neutralizing bacteria and other irritants. While there are many variations of a clay face mask, you should always look for a product that is 100% pure or ’natural’.

The best way to apply a clay face mask is to use your fingertips. First, apply a thin layer on your face using small circular motions. Leave it on for approximately 5-10 minutes. After this time period has elapsed, you can either rinse your mask off with warm water or use a damp washcloth. After removing the mask, simply follow up with your regular face moisturizer or cleanser.

Kaolin Clay Benefits for Hair, Teeth and Body

Besides beauty benefits, kaolin clay is famous for hair and other benefits as well.

Kaolin clay can be used to treat diarrhoea but as of now, there has been no conclusive evidence to prove this statement. A study suggested that the mineral content present in kaolin clay is similar to bismuth subsalicylate, which is a medication that treats diarrhoea. However, kaolin clay is not a recommended medication/ treatment for diarrhoea.

Kaolin clay has been used in hair care products as well due to its detoxification properties. It is believed that kaolin clay can improve scalp health by absorbing excess oils to prevent scalp infections, inflammation and dandruff.

Kaolin clay is also used in some natural toothpaste or as a tooth powder due to its effectiveness in cleaning teeth. However, more evidence is required to prove that kaolin clay can be a good alternative to traditional toothpaste.

Kaolin clay is a perfect alternative to deodorant because of its ability to absorb excess oil and impurities. Kaolin clay helps to absorb sweat and neutralize the body odour. It is also used in many natural and hypoallergenic deodorant formulations.

Take Away

Long story short, kaolin clay can improve your complexion by making your skin look brighter, smoother and healthier.

This is why kaolin clay is commonly used in skincare products due to its ability to absorb excess oil from the skin. Kaolin clay is extremely gentle on the skin as compared to its alternatives.