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I randomly stumbled upon this product because it was given to me as part of a test for Google Express. I read the label: Aztec Healing Clay…I was intrigued so I figured I would give it a shot.
Thank goodness I did because it is now my absolute favorite face mask I have tried!
And I don’t know about you, but it seems like every other face mask I have really liked is super expensive so you feel like you can only use them sparingly. Well, not the Aztec healing clay mask! It is less than $15 for two pounds!
To really show amazing of a deal you’re getting, think about this: GlamGlow SuperMud Cleansing mask is another super popular product, but guess how much it is? $69 for 1.2oz on Sephora vs. $13.99/32 oz for the Aztec Healing Clay Mask – that is over 100x more expensive!!
What is Aztec healing clay?
Well that was my first question too. Looking at the label, the only ingredient in the mask is calcium bentonite clay. Such a good sign! Whether it be food, beauty products, or cleaning products, I am a firm believer that the less ingredients the better!
Bentonite clay is actually aged volcanic rock and has been used by many cultures over hundreds of years as a detoxifier due to its ionic charge when hydrated (sorry, went a little Bill Nye there). Read more about it from the Wellness Mama blog. And if you’re a bit of a nerd like me and appreciate a good random fun fact… “The name comes from the largest known deposit of Bentonite Clay located in Fort Benton, Wyoming.”
According to NYC dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, “Bentonite clay is highly absorbent and helps remove excess oil from the skin.” Then, combine it with apple cider vinegar, which has antimicrobial properties, and it does double duty against stubborn acne!
My experience with the Aztec healing clay mask:
As you may know from other posts, I have been blessed with combination skin and acne since my teenage years. However, Aztec Healing Clay Mask along with Panoxyl Foaming Acne Wash (read my review of it here) have been really life-changing in clearing my skin, and I promise I’m not one to throw that kind of declaration around.
How I use the Aztec healing clay mask:
First of all, read the instructions on the packaging, then follow these steps…
- Get a bowl, apple cider vinegar and a spoon. I recommend using a paper bowl for easy cleanup, but it’s perfectly fine to use a regular cereal bowl if that’s all you have like I did today. I use Bragg Organic Raw Apple Cider Vinegar and highly recommend this brand. I use a rubber spoon or spatula because I find it mixes it the best. I had read that a metal spoon can be detrimental because it messes with the ionic charge, but I haven’t found anything to support this.
- Wash your face using your gentle daily cleanser like CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
or cleansing wipes. You can find the Pond’s cleansing towelettes I use here.
- Measure out equal parts (~1 Tbsp) of the powdered Aztec healing clay and (~1 Tbsp) of water OR apple cider vinegar (ACV). Then, mix! If this is your first time trying the mask, you may want to dilute the ACV 50/50 with water so it is not as harsh on your skin. This will make plenty for 1-2 people’s masks. You can probably even get away with half that amount if it is just you.
- Apply the Aztec healing clay mask to your face, avoiding sensitive areas like your around your eyes. The directions say to apply 1/4-1/2″ thick which seems like a ton. I just do a generous coating all over so it is not see through. Feel free to have a Survivor moment and dabble in a bit of war painting – I won’t judge.
- Take a look at the clock and set a timer. If you have sensitive skin, plan to wait for about 10 mins. I have fairly sensitive skin but I typically leave the mask on for ~15-20 minutes.
- As time passes, you will see the mask start to crack, especially around your mouth or areas of your face that move more. It is normal to feel a gentle itching/tingling sensation (I guess that is the “pulsating effect” mentioned on the label). I like it because I can feel it working.
- Once time is up, I typically rub off anything that easily flakes off into the garbage can. Then, I jump in the shower and remove the rest with warm water.
- Once you get out, you may notice some slight redness, which should disappear in 30-60 mins. You may still have a bit of that tingling sensation right after..again, that’s normal in my experience. Very importantly, this mask is drying so don’t forget to moisturize right after! I use this Cerave Moisturizing Lotion.
Final thoughts:
- Some people worry that the Aztec healing clay will clog their drains, but I have not read anything substantiating this and have never had problems. Given the small amount of clay being diluted by gallons and gallons of water when showering, I wouldn’t stress. This is one of the reasons I prefer showering to remove than just washing in the sink. Plus, showering is much less messy. If you are concerned about it. You can always flush a bit of vinegar down your drain after to help dissolve any deposits.
- I recommend using this product about once per week if you have acne prone skin like me. If you develop any sensitivity, you can back off how often.
- To recap why the Aztec Healing Clay Mask is my favorite face mask:
- It is cheap AND effective – my favorite combo!
- It is a natural product with no added chemicals and unnecessary ingredients
Please comment if you have tried out the Aztec Healing Clay Mask and let me know what you think! I love hearing your feedback.
