How to Apply a Clay Face Mask – Tips and Techniques For The Best Results

Clay face masks have so many benefits for your skin. They are designed to exfoliate and remove oil, bacteria and impurities from your skin. We love clay face masks because they are easy to use and make us feel like we are having a relaxing spa like experience.

In this article we show you how to apply a clay face mask to get the best possible results. We break down the entire clay face mask routine, from start to finish, into 5 easy to follow stages.

The Stages of a Clay Face Mask Routine

The entire clay face mask routine can by divided into 5 distinct stages:

1. Skin preparation
2. Application of the clay face mask
3. The drying stage
4. Face mask removal
5. After removal skincare

Stage 1: Skin Preparation

Clean your face before applying a clay face mask:

You want to apply a clay face mask to clean skin. You don’t want to be putting the clay mask over a layer of dirt or bacteria that could prevent the mask from being effective.

How to clean you skin before face mask application:

Try Nayelle’s CLEANSE facial cleanser. It is a gentle and mild cleansing cream that gently removes oils, makeup and environmental pollutants from the skin. It is suitable for all skin types. Start by working a small amount into a lather in your hands. Wash the face using circular motions with your finger tips, avoiding the eyes. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat dry with a clean towel.

You can also use a no-rinse cleansing option like micellar water to help remove dirt, oil, and traces of makeup. Simply apply the micellar water to a cotton pad then wipe down your face. No rinsing is required.

Dilate those pores with steam:

In addition to properly cleaning the skin you can use steam to help dilate the skin’s pores for maximum results. Putting your face over a bowl of hot water, a hot shower or a washcloth dipped in warm water can do the trick. Let the skin cool down before applying the mask.

Stage 2: Clay Face Mask Application

Ensure that your hands are clean before application:

Eliminate the chance of transferring any oils or bacteria from your hands to your face. Make sure that your hands have been thoroughly washed. Another clay face mask application technique would be to use a flat foundation brush.

Don’t use too much product:

When applying a clay face mask remember that more is not always better. You should only have to apply one layer to get the full effects of a clay face mask. Multiple layers could even prevent the mask from drying properly.

Stage 3: The Clay Face Mask Drying Phase

Now we wait as clay face mask does its work. Every clay face mask will not dry in exactly the same way so you need to watch this stage carefully.

During the drying phase the face mask exercises your capillaries and stimulates blood flow as the mask cools and contracts. As the mask is designed to draw out oil and impurities from the skin, but we don’t want to over do it.

Don’t leave a clay mask on for too long:

Leaving a clay mask on for an extra-long time won’t ensure it works better. When it comes to how long to leave a clay face mask on, always follow the directions on the packaging. If you think you might forget, set a timer.

You do not want the clay mask to reach the super dry “flaky” stage before you start rinsing. Lightly tap the mask with your fingers. When you start to see it drying (which usually means it gets lighter in colour) but it still feels a bit sticky, it’s time to wash the face mask off. We do this to stop from over drying the skin.

Stage 4: Clay Face Mask Removal

Once the clay face mask has dried it is time to remove. It’s easy but be thorough! Use a wet washcloth, warm water and gentle circular motions to wipe the clay mask off of your face. Be sure to get it all off. Leaving some of the face mask behind can clog pores and the your skin irritated. Double check your hairline, eyebrows, nostrils and behind the earlobes.

Pat the skin dry:

Once the clay mask has been removed use a clean, dry towel and lightly blot your skin until it’s just slightly damp. Now you can move onto the final stage to complete a successful clay face mask routine.

Stage 5: After Clay Face Mask Removal

Moisturize your skin after the clay face mask has been removed:

After masking, you aren’t finished with your skin care routine. You need to follow-up with moisturizer, otherwise masking might result in dry skin. Try a face moisturizer like Nayelle’s REJUVENATE Anti-Aging Night Cream or HYDRATE Probiotic Moisturizing Day Cream.

Try a consistent clay face mask routine for the best results:

A clay face mask is not just for special occasions. Consider using a clay face mask twice per week. Always follow the directions on any clay face mask product of your choosing as frequency of use between different masks can vary greatly.

Avoid These Common Clay Face Mask Mistakes

Let’s take a look at some common mistakes when applying a clay face mask:

1. No Preparation before the clay face mask – Prepare your skin properly to get the fully benefits of the clay face mask.
   Open up those pores with steam.
2. Leaving it on for too long – The most common problem when applying a clay face mask is leaving it on for too long. We want to remove the mask before it fully dries and becomes “flaky”. The mask should still have a little bit of “stickiness” to the touch when removed.
3. Dirty Face and Hands – Wash your hands and face before applying the clay face mask.
4. Leaving your skin too dry afterwards – Moisturize after the clay face mask has been removed.
5. Make sure it’s all removed.

How to Apply the PURIFY Glacial Clay Face Mask

In this short video Tanya Moss, President of Nayelle Probiotic Skincare, demonstrates how to apply the PURFIY Glacial Clay Face Mask.