I happened to discover the wonder product that is French green clay for great skin and hair, by chance last year. I was in the supermarché one day searching for a good organic face mask product. I rarely get a chance to browse chemists or even online for that matter so I stumbled across this French green clay and was intrigued.

I had never heard of it before but the more I read about it, the more I wanted to try it out. It was relatively inexpensive as it is made locally here in France and considering I live here I was happy to try the brand. There aren’t the many good organic or natural brands available in supermarkets so I was happy to find one.

French green clay is a bio mineral. Rich in trace minerals such as calcium, silica, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, sulphur, aluminium oxide, copper and zinc. All are great for nourishing and hydration of the skin cells.

It really helps to tone and firm the skin. Best part is, it reduces pores and really cleans and purifies. When you wash it off with tepid water, it feels so refreshing and really clean.

It works to reduce pesky spots too. If I have any spots I mix half a tsp of lemon or apple cider vinegar (ACV) into a coin size amount for its astringent properties. I generally leave the mask on for at least 5 mins or until it dries. You can just use a small amount as a spot treatment to dry out the spot and remove bacteria if you want.

It can feel quite tight so I try not to pile on too much but just skim over the skin lightly. It is very gentle on the skin so it can be used for psoriasis, eczema and rashes to relieve and soothe.

Green clay is a great exfoliator too and it pulls dead skin cells away and removes toxins at the same time. I use it once a week and I tend to mix it with some of my rose water toner. It is very thick so I find if I dilute it a little it is easier to apply.

It is a wonderful detoxifying mask as it removes impurities, dead skin cells, bacteria and dirt from the skin and really purifies. It basically absorbs any impurities and unclogs pores, leaving you with a nice clean base ready for moisturising.

Lovea Nature green clay comes in a big tube so you can use it for your hair and body also and no need to skimp. It is so cheap, less than 5 quid! I use it for my body wraps when I feel like I need a detox. See my post on DIY body wraps here.

Here is a pic –

I also use it for my hair as it is clarifying and of course, most importantly, natural. I mix it with some water and apply it directly to my scalp, then leave it on for 5 mins. Wash it out with warm water in the shower and then condition with a natural conditioner.

It is called French green clay because it is mainly extracted from quarries in France, however it is available in other countries in Europe, China and Montana. The one I have is 99% natural origin so I am happy with that, it is safe. No nasties.

Feel free to mix in with carrier oils such as jojoba, almond, argan or grapeseed oil to try and find the best match for your skin type. It is fun trying out mixtures and seeing great results. Jojoba is my fave for sure, I love it! You only need a small amount to make it easily applicable so don’t add too much or it might be too runny.

Apply with a nice bamboo or natural mask brush or else just mix in the palm of your hand and use your fingers. I find it’s easier using the brush but I like a nice even finish. Probably too much of a perfectionist! I do love a good mask pamper session in fairness. Do avoid the delicate eye and mouth area and try not to get any in your hair. I use a headband for practicality. I also put a little balm on my eyebrows in case.

It dries very quickly so make sure to wipe off any excess and wash your brush as soon as possible. Then relax and wait for the mask to work its magic. You will feel a tightness but that is normal.

Once you wash it off with tepid/warm water use a muslin cloth or flannel to remove the remaining clay (there is always some little bits, I ended up leaving some on the side of my face one day all day!) Mortified! Haha. So double check it has been removed, then follow up with your oil/serum and moisturiser. I always recommend natural skin care whether it is a facial oil or a natural beauty brand.

Give it a try for yourself and see. Let me know your verdicts!

Back next week as usual 😉

Ciara x