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Clay has been used by people for thousands of years to enhance the health of their skin and hair and calamine clay is one of the new clay masks on the block. Though it’s new, it’s already become popular for its ability to calm and soothe skin. Calamine clay benefits for skin include relieving skin irritations, reducing acne, and improving the complexion.1

Calamine clay is a type of bentonite clay that contains minerals like zinc oxide and iron oxide. These minerals give calamine clay its pink color and also help to absorb excess oil and impurities from the skin. Additionally, the zinc in calamine clay can help to reduce inflammation and redness. Volcanic ash, another common ingredient in bentonite clay masks, can also be found in calamine clay.2

Often found in a face mask for sensitive skin the chemical composition and healing properties make this clay a must-have on your list of essential medicines.One of the most notable calamine clay benefits for skin is its ability to soothe and calm irritated skin. Calamine clay can help to reduce the redness and itchiness associated with conditions like eczema and psoriasis.3

Related: Simple DIY Bentonite Clay Body Wraps Guide

If you’re familiar with the benefits of calamine lotion, you’ll be pleased to know that calamine clay powder can provide similar benefits. Typically used to treat:

  • insect bites
  • poison ivy
  • poison oak
  • diaper rash
  • mosquito bites

The natural minerals in this type of clay provide a cooling sensation to the affected areas. The anti-inflammatory properties of calamine clay can also help to reduce the swelling associated with an allergic reaction. The astringent properties of calamine clay work to dry out pimples and other blemishes, while zinc oxide helps to protect the skin from further irritations.4

It makes sense then that this type of clay is making its way to skin care and facial masks. For those with oily skin or acne-prone skin, calamine clay can be a godsend. The absorbent properties of the clay help to remove excess oil from the skin, which can reduce the likelihood of breakouts. Adding calamine clay powder to your skincare routine is a great idea for any skin type.5

13 Calamine Clay Benefits For Skin

1. Soothes Irritation

Skin problems like eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis can cause skin redness, itchy skin, and inflammation. Calamine clay can help to reduce all of these symptoms thanks to its soothing properties and calming effect. The active ingredients in calamine clay, zinc oxide, and iron oxide work to absorb excess oil and impurities from the skin while also reducing inflammation.

2. Reduces Acne

The absorbent properties of calamine clay help to remove excess sebum from the skin, which can reduce the likelihood of breakouts. Calamine clay’s anti-inflammatory properties can help to reduce the swelling associated with active pimples. Combined with salicylic acid calamine clay can be an effective treatment for acne and acne scars.

Related: The Benefits Of Using Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser For Acne

3. Improves Complexion

Calamine clay can help to improve the complexion by absorbing excess oil and impurities from the skin. This can help to reduce the appearance of pores and give a more even skin tone. Additionally, calamine clay’s anti-inflammatory properties can help to reduce the redness and inflammation associated with skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

4. Reduce The Appearance of Dark Spots

The combination of zinc oxide and iron oxide found in calamine clay can help to reduce the appearance of dark spots and other blemishes. With the presence of small amounts of ferric oxide, a natural form of vitamin C, in calamine clay, it can also help to brighten the skin.

5. Helps To Heal Wounds

The anti-inflammatory and astringent properties of calamine clay can help to heal wounds, scars, and burns. The zinc oxide in calamine clay helps to protect the skin from further irritation while also promoting the healing process.

6. Soothes Sunburn and Offers Sun Protection

Harmful UV rays can cause sunburn, skin damage, and premature aging. Calamine clay can help to soothe the pain and inflammation associated with sunburn while also providing a barrier against harmful UV rays.

7. Reduces Razor Burn

The anti-inflammatory properties of calamine clay can help to reduce the redness and inflammation associated with razor burn. The zinc oxide in calamine clay helps to protect the skin from further irritation while also promoting the healing process.

8. Reduces Under-Eye Circles

The cooling and astringent properties of calamine clay can help to reduce the appearance of under-eye circles. The zinc oxide in calamine clay helps to protect the skin from further irritation while also promoting the healing process.

Related: 21 Reasons Facial Oils Are The Key To Glowing Skin

9. Fights Free Radicals

Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and lead to premature aging. Calamine clay’s antioxidant properties help to neutralize free radicals and protect the skin from damage.

10. Detoxifies The Skin

The absorbent properties of calamine clay help to remove toxins and impurities from the skin. This can help to improve the complexion and reduce the likelihood of breakouts.

11. Exfoliates Dead Skin Cells

Calamine clay’s ability to absorb impurities and excess oil can also help to exfoliate dead skin cells. This can help to improve the texture of the skin and reduce the appearance of pores.

Calamine clay benefits for skin can be used treat minor skin conditions. From reducing sebum production to offering a cooling effect to irritations, this natural remedy can be a helpful addition to any skincare routine.

How To Use Calamine Clay

The best way to use Calamine Clay is as a face pack or face mask. Depending on your skin type or skin issue you can add ingredients like essential oils and other natural ingredients to the Calamine Clay depending on what you are trying to achieve. For example:

  • Adding honey to the paste will help to moisturize the skin
  • Adding yogurt will help to soothe and add moisture
  • Adding lavender oil will help to calm the skin

If you have dry skin:

Mix Calamine Clay with rose water to form a paste. Rose water will help to soothe and add moisture to the skin.

Apply the paste to your face and leave for 15 minutes before rinsing with warm water.

If you have oily skin:

Mix Calamine Clay with water and lemon juice to form a paste. The lemon juice will help to control excess oil and the clay will help to draw out impurities.

Apply the paste to your face and leave for 15 minutes before rinsing with warm water.

If you have sensitive skin:

Mix Calamine Clay with chamomile tea to form a paste. Chamomile tea is very soothing and will help to calm the skin.

Apply the paste to your face and leave for 15 minutes before rinsing with warm water.

If you have acne:

Calamine Clay can also be used as a spot treatment for pimples or blemishes. Simply apply a small amount of clay to the affected area, and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing it off.

For best results, use Calamine Clay 2-3 times per week. You can store leftover clay in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Side Effects Of Calamine Clay

Calamine clay is generally considered safe for most people. However, some people may experience skin irritation, redness, or dryness. If you experience any of these side effects, discontinue use and speak with your doctor.

Calamine clay should not be used on open wounds or broken skin. If you have any cuts or scrapes, wait until they are fully healed before using Calamine Clay.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using Calamine Clay. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak with your doctor before using any new skincare products, including Calamine Clay.

When using Calamine Clay it is important to remember that a little goes a long way. It is best to start with a small amount and gradually add more if needed. It is also important to make sure that the clay is fully dissolved in water before applying it to the skin.

Calamine Clay can be purchased at most drugstores or online. Check out our favorite brands below:

This natural remedy can be a helpful addition to any skincare routine. From reducing sebum production to offering a cooling effect to irritations, this natural remedy can be a helpful addition to any skincare routine.