Simple DIY Detox Face Mask with Charcoal and Clay

Spring is here and many of us are thinking about detoxing… detoxing our bodies, detoxing our home, and maybe even detoxing our relationships!

But how about our skin?

Our skin is the largest organ of the body. It has the ability to absorb much of what we put on it each day. Which can be a good thing or a bad thing.

It’s good in that we can easily nourish the body via skin absorption. For example, applying a homemade magnesium cream will help boost the body’s store of magnesium. This is an excellent method of supplementation in addition to (or in some cases, instead of) the diet.

But, since the skin is capable of absorbing whatever is placed on it, detoxing can also impact the body (and condition of our skin) negatively. We may experience issues such as clogged pores or acne.

Detoxing the skin is not a one-time event, but more of an ongoing process. In truth, one could probably never say the skin is completed “detoxed” since it is exposed to new things every day. (Kind of like doing laundry! It’s done for approximately 12 seconds and then something else goes in the dirty clothes’ hamper!)

Some of the best practices for keeping skin healthy, clean, and detoxed are:

• drinking sufficient water
• eating real food, especially vegetables
• getting enough Omega 3s
• cleansing, toning, and moisturizing before bed
• not over washing (this can lead to dry, stripped skin)

In addition to these, applying a face mask regularly can also be beneficial. Facial masks help draw out impurities as well as tightening and toning the skin.

Even though it’s quite simple to make face masks from ingredients you likely have on hand, such as this DIY Avocado and Honey Face Mask, today I’m going to share recipe that’s just as easy, but uses two specialty ingredients (don’t worry, that aren’t very expensive and have other uses too!).

This simple detox face mask uses three ingredients:

1. Bentonite Clay 

While many different types of clay are suitable for face masks (see them all here), bentonite clay is one of my favorites because of its ability to draw out toxins.

It is one of the least expensive clays and is suitable for normal to oily skin. If you have dry skin, you may wish to replace this with Kaolin clay (see this post for details on which clays are suitable for specific skin types).

Bentonite clay can also be used in baths and taken internally. See all the benefits (and uses) for bentonite clay here.

2. Activated Charcoal

You’ve probably heard that activated charcoal is useful in absorbing toxins or drugs from the stomach. I always keep some on hand in case of an upset stomach.

Make these homemade gummies to help with those stomach bugs!

These same absorption properties come into play when activated charcoal is applied to the skin. It has the ability to draw out toxins, effectively removing them.

3. Water or Chamomile Tea

When making this mask, you will only need a little liquid. Just enough to make a paste. Water works just fine, but a little cooled chamomile tea is always nice as it soothes and calms the skin. Chamomile is a great natural option for decreasing stress and enhancing beauty. 

Simple DIY Detox Face Mask with Charcoal and Clay

Supplies

• 2 tsp of bentonite clay
• 1/2 tsp activated charcoal (approximately 2 capsules)
• 2-3 tsp of water or cooled Chamomile tea

You will also need a non-metal bowl and stirring utensil to create this mask (metal reacts with bentonite clay). A glass bowl and small wooden spoon will work (but don’t use a “special” spoon as it may become stained).

Method

Open two capsules of activated charcoal and pour into a small dish (this should make approximately 1/2 tsp).

Add 2 tsp Bentonite clay and stir to combine.

Add enough water or tea to make a paste. You will need very little (about 2-3 tsp).

Carefully apply the paste to your face, avoiding the eyes. (Use clean fingers or a small brush.)

Let mask sit for 5 minutes, then wash off with warm water and a wash cloth.

Follow with a nourishing moisturizer or face oil. Plain coconut oil is a great option, too.

Warnings and Precautions

It is normal to feel a tightening of the skin as the mask dries, but if your face feels itchy or reacts in any other unpleasant way, remove the mask immediately.

Please note that activated charcoal has a tendency to stain anything it touches. It’s best to wear an old shirt when applying this mask and use a wash cloth you are not overly fond of when removing.

Additional Recipe Notes

This detox face mask can be used once a week, if desired.

Make this mask in bulk, or give it as a gift by following these instructions.

If you’d like more face mask recipes, I’ve got tons in my ebook, DIY Face Masks and Scrubs.

Have you ever tried a detoxifying face mask?

Looking for other ways to detoxify?

• Take a Detox Bath
• Drink a Detox Smoothie
• Detox your body with a Detoxifying Salt Scrub
• Ate too much? Detox your body with this Apple Cider Vinegar Detox Elixir

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. By making a purchase through those links, I will earn commission that helps to keep the lights on in the Crumbs house – with no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting Crumbs in this way. Read my full disclosure statement here.

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