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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.
Pigmentation is simply skin’s coloration, determined by the amount of melanin produced by the skin cells. This umbrella term can include a wide variety of skin pigmentation disorders that can affect small or large areas of the skin. It includes genetic conditions, as well as environmental ones, such as sunspots or liver spots. Hyperpigmentation, for example, refers to a darkening of the skin, such as with age spots and sunspots.
To prevent discoloration from damaging UV, it’s best to moisturize daily and wear sunscreen. Additionally, antioxidants protect the skin from free radicals that damage cells and speed up aging. Ingredients and nutrients like acai oil, alpha-lipoic acid, jojoba oil, green tea extract, retinol/vitamin A, coenzyme Q10, caffeine, alpha-hydroxy acid and salicylic acid are all beneficial for preventing and reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation. Vitamin C is also a good brightening agent for hyperpigmentation. Hydrolyzed collagen also enhances the appearance of dull or damaged skin by reducing flaking and restoring the overall vitality of the skin.
Bentonite clay may be effective for pigmentation, 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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