For the next few months I hope to give you a review of some of my favorite masks.  I think it will give you lots of options if you are new to masks, as I use a variety of drugstore, high-end and homemade masks.  Today I’m going to share with you two ingredients you can find in many facial masks and why they are used.

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Kaolin (China clay) is a soft clay. It is a white, or off-white, hydrated aluminum silicate mined from mountains and gathered from tropical riverbeds. Fun fact kaolin clay was also a traditional remedy for upset stomachs in South America and is still used in intestinal medicines today for its unique ability to absorb water. Kaolin is found in many face masks because it cleanses and exfoliates dead skin cells and debris from the surface.

Bentonie is clay derived from volcanic ash deposits found in the United States of America, although it  can be found in other parts of the world. Fun fact, bentonite clay holds up to fifteen times its own weight of water which is due to its platelet-like structure. Bentonite has soothing and healing qualities which makes it popular in poultices and facial masks.  It absorbs grease and dirt from the skin, while tightening at the same time, smoothing out fine lines.