How to Use an Aztec Clay Mask

Co-authored by Alicia Ramos

Last Updated: November 30, 2023 Approved

As a break to your regular beauty regimen, use Aztec clay masks to revive your skin and hair. Aztec clay can draw out oil and impurities, leaving your skin and hair soft and beautiful. Try using each mask once a week to reap the benefits of Aztec clay without overdrying your skin and scalp. Avoid leaving clay masks on too long, which may cause irritation.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Using an Aztec Clay Face Mask

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1
Mix together equal parts Aztec clay and apple cider vinegar. In a medium-sized bowl, mix equal parts of Aztec Clay and apple cider vinegar. The acidity of the vinegar will help to soften and exfoliate skin while the clay removes oil. If you don't like the smell of apple cider vinegar, use an equal amount of water to make the mixture instead.
- Aztec clay is available online or in beauty supply stores.
- For a more luxurious face mask, add one tablespoon (0.75 oz.) of honey to the mixture.
Use your fingers or a clean cloth to apply the clay mixture to your face. Apply a layer that is between 1/8 and 1/4 an inch (approximately 0.5 cm) thick. Be careful to avoid getting the mixture in your eyes.

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3
Let the mask dry. If you have normal skin, allow the mask to dry for between fifteen and twenty minutes. If you have sensitive skin, let the mask dry on your skin for only five minutes. Watch the time carefully or set an alarm to mark the exact time.
- As the mask dries, you will feel a tightening sensation on your skin.
Splash a small amount of warm water onto your face and rub it in circular motions to re-wet the mask. Once the mask is moist again, rinse it off without soap or facial cleanser. Take your time to avoid scrubbing or irritating your skin while removing the mask.
Dab your face dry with a clean towel. Let your skin rest for a few minutes, or until any redness goes away. Apply a light moisturizer to your skin.^{[1]
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Overuse of bentonite clay on the skin can be drying or cause irritation. Use an Aztec clay face mask no more than once a week. If you experience significant irritation when using the mask, avoid future use.^{[2]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Applying an Aztec Clay Hair Mask

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In a medium-sized bowl, combine equal parts of Aztec clay and warm water. For every tablespoon (0.75 oz.) of this mixture, add 2/3 of a tablespoon (0.5 oz.) of either grape seed oil or sweet almond oil. Mix the ingredients together thoroughly.
After shampooing your hair, towel dry it. Apply a generous amount of the mixture to your hair strand by strand. Be sure that your hair is entirely covered.
After applying the mask to all of your hair, let it dry for between 45 minutes and an hour. A tightening sensation on your scalp is normal. Despite how drying the mask might feel, it will actually boost your hair's moisture.^{[3]
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Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water. Be sure to remove all of the clay from your hair and scalp. Apply a rich conditioner to your hair. Rinse and dry your hair as usual.^{[4]
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Expert Q&A

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How do clay masks draw out impurities?

Alicia Ramos
Skincare Professional
Alicia Ramos is a Licensed Esthetician and the owner of Smoothe Denver in Denver, Colorado. She received her license at the School of Botanical & Medical Aesthetics, with training in lashes, dermaplaning, waxing, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels, and now provides skin care solutions to hundreds of clients.

Alicia Ramos

Skincare Professional

Expert Answer

Clay masks work by absorbing oils and liquids out of your skin as they dry. This clears your pores and can help lead to a healthier, more balanced skin tone!

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How many times a week should I use it?

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You should use it no more than once or twice per week, because it could dry out your skin and cause skin problems if you use it too frequently.

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Is it necessary to apply moisturizer or skin toner afterwards?

Community Answer

Yes, I would suggest applying a toner and moisturizer after rinsing off the mask. Be sure to pat dry your skin with a towel before applying the moisturizer and/or toner.

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Things You'll Need

Aztec clay
Apple cider vinegar
A medium sized bowl
Honey
A clean cloth
Moisturizer
Grape seed oil or sweet almond oil
Conditioner

Tips

Store Aztec clay in a tightly-sealed glass jar.^{[5]
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Avoid using a metal bowl or spoon to mix Aztec clay. The metal can reduce the effectiveness of the electrical components in the clay.^{[6]
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Cover your drain with a hair catcher or mesh filter when rinsing off Aztec clay masks. Large clumps of clay could clog your drain.

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