Clay soaps have always been a favorite of mine. Remember, I’m also a freelance makeup artist. I have seen and used many a great product with clay in the ingredient list. Most favorable were the handmade European clay soaps. Also, hand blended clay masks from Israel. Just wonderful products, but the costs are pretty expensive too, especially with the shipping from over seas. Unless you’re a shop owner or have 100 friends wanting the same product, it’s not worth it.
Well, I have been thinking about doing a clay soap for awhile now, not just using the clay as a colorant, but really focusing in on it’s healing benefits and incorporating them into a well-rounded soap. I have decided, what the heck, I’m making them! And I have really enjoyed formulating the bars. I tried to pay attention to the wants and needs of my clients and make clay bars that are pretty universal. Appealing to more than two categories is key for Curat, and hopefully I have achieved this task.
Below you will see a couple pre-debut ads for both soaps. I have a white clay soap called “Alabaster” and a red clay soap I named “Ouija”. Both are contemporary in scent and ingredients. With all my products, I want the clients to know the benefits of ingredients.
I don’t use a certain herb or property just because it’s the trend, the hip thing to do. I want to use ingredients because it’s relative to a need, can withstand trends and finally, it’s a universal product. That’s just the way I feel. Hopefully you can agree….or not! So below I'm including a wonderful and simple look into the clays that are commonly used in bath and beauty products. I ran across this article some time ago, and really like it. So enjoy getting to know the assortment of clays and their primary benefits.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2013313
(Taken from “Adding Clay To Soap” an article written by IrisFuchs)
French Green Clay
French Green clay originates from quarries in France. When used in soap making, it is added as a natural colorant. French Green clay has very high levels of absorbance. Its molecular structure allows it to absorb oil, dirt and toxins from the skin. It balances oily skin to normal pH levels. It can be used daily on local acne spots and in facial masks. Oily hair may benefit from using this clay when added to hair products.
Bentonite Clay
Bentonite clay originates from volcanic ash sediments in the United States. It is known as a soft, moisturizing clay. When a facial mask of this clay is applied to the skin, it draws and absorbs oil, leaving the skin pure and invigorated. It is also used as a mineral supplement when it is taken orally (by eating).
White Kaolin Clay
White Kaolin is the most gentle and fine clay. When it is added to facial masks, it works as an exfoliate and helps promote blood circulation. Because it is light and absorbent, it is added to many cosmetic products such as facial masks, deodorants, powders, soaps and more.
Rhassul Clay
Rhassul clay originates in Morocco. Since it is very rich in minerals, it is added into spas all over the world. This type of clay is known to smoothen, relax and rejuvenate the skin.
Fuller's Earth Clay
Because its natural properties are to draw oil from the skin, Fuller's Earth Clay works best as a cleanser for oily skin and acne. Another property of this clay is its ability to tone down the skin and lighten it. It can be found in facial products that help achieve a consistent skin tone.
Rose and Red Clay
Both rose and red clays are added to facial masks and soaps. They work great as exfoliates for the face and body.
Summary
Clay, is an available natural resource which is mined or picked from the earth and benefits us wonderfully when it is added to soap and cosmetics products. It is rich in minerals, absorbs oil from the skin and revives and purifies the skin. Clay can also be used in soap as a natural colorant. Clay is a great choice for an exfoliate when adding it to soap. Some clays have properties which draw oil from the skin and normalize its level. Some "drink" the oil, soak it and remove it. Other types of clay help with normal, dry and sensitive skin. Clay cleans the skin, promotes blood circulation and invigorates the skin. (Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2013313)
