It’s hard to fathom how the ash collected from the site of an active volcano could help your skin. But it is, in fact, quite a popular ingredient for spa treatments.
Volcanic ash clay, or sodium bentonite clay, was used for its skincare and health benefits for centuries by the native Melanesians, since they lived close to the volcanoes in Vanuatu. It gets it beneficial properties from the high amounts of sulfur it contains. It is an active mineral with anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-yeast and disinfecting properties; applying it to the skin can protect it against the toxic effects of radiation and pollution, thus slowing down the process of aging. Volcanic ash is also particularly helpful against skin irritation and infection.
Several spas today offer this treatment to heal skin rash, blemishes, damaged skin, wrinkles, psoriasis, eczema and even stretch marks. It is highly recommended for bridal occasions for flawless skin before the d-day. But you don’t necessarily need to head out to the spa to reap its benefits. Just find the right ingredients at a local store, and prepare your own volcanic clay mask at home. Here’s how:
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp bentonite clay
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 tsp oatmeal
- 2-3 drops of tea tree oil
Directions:
- Mix all the ingredients, until they blend well.
- Apply this mask to your face and allow it to dry for about five to 10 minutes.
- At this point, you may feel a slight tightening sensation, which is normal.
- Once the mask dries, and after you’ve left it on for long enough, dab gently with a wet sponge. This will loosen the mask up.
- Wash your face with warm water.
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