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Bentonite clay is an absorbent fine powdery earth which forms due to the weathering of volcanic ash in seawater. This process turns the volcanic glass present in the ash to clay particles. Bentonite clay has a variety of uses in skin and hair care, such as in clay face masks or hair masks.
Bentonite clay works like a sort of sponge, wicking oil and dirt away from your skin. This gives it powerful cleansing properties, and it is excellent for treating oily or acne-prone skin. It also possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help clean your further and help with the healing process. It’s natural absorbent properties make it a favorite for detoxifying your skin and hair, and even to help remove toxins like those caused by poison ivy rashes. Some sunscreens contain bentonite clay to improve their ability to stay on the skin.
There are no serious drawbacks of using bentonite clay topically, as it is an all-natural ingredient. Few people have been shown to have irritation caused by bentonite clay. However, since it is a natural substance, there is a risk of contamination. It may contain traces of heavy elements, pesticides and other substances, which may be unhealthy for your skin and hair. In addition, the FDA has not yet regulated bentonite clay products.
Pores are itsy-bitsy openings in the skin—and there are millions covering every millimeter of skin. There are two types of pores with different functions: sweat pores and oil pores. The sweat pore allows moisture, produced by sweat glands, to exude out to the surface of the skin, where it helps to cool the body in response to heat, exertion or fever. Sweat pores are so tiny, they are mostly invisible to the human eye.
The oil pore, on the other hand, is a bit larger. Oil pores are also known as hair follicles because these pores produce oil from the sebaceous glands, but they are also the openings from which hair emerges. The oils help to keep our skin and hair healthy. It is the oil pores that can get clogged with sweat, debris and other gunk, causing acne, blackheads and whiteheads. Sweat pores rarely get clogged, as they are so tiny.
Benzoyl peroxide is a topical agent for fighting bacteria and unclogging pores. It is one of the longest-used medications to keep pores clean and healthy. Jojoba oil and rosehip oil are also good for reducing inflammation, fighting bacteria, and keeping in moisture for healthier skin. Ingredients that help exfoliate dead skin cells and increase new skin cell production, such as Vitamin A/Retinol, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid, are good for keeping pores unclogged as well.
Bentonite clay may be effective for clogged pores, but there are many other factors that may affect whether this ingredient would work on your skin or if there are better ingredients that may work for you. Take this skin quiz to find the best ingredients for your skin and build your skincare routine.
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