I have fairly balanced skin, but I do have some activity in my t-zone. While I seldom have breakouts, I do get the occasional blemish. Given that I do get some excess oil in my t-zone, I do tend to use clay masks, and have since I was a teen. During my recent glut of Erno Laszlo purchases, I received some impressive gifts with purchases, and among them was the Erno Laszlo Pore Cleansing Clay Mask. While this was not on my potential list of purchases, I am happy that I receives a tube nonetheless.
I am most struck by the fact that while this clay-based mask dries down, that it is not drying on the skin. So many clay masks get tight as they dry, if not uncomfortable, and they often leave the skin a bit parched. However, this one does not. In fact, skin feels comfortable and clean, and clogged pores are purged. My skin feels lightly hydrated because of their unusual use of Calamine, as it soothes and hydrates, and therefore it would also be suitable for a wider range of skin types beyond combination to oily.
According to Erno Laszlo,
This detoxifying clay mask harnesses the natural benefits of Bentonite Clay, attracting dirt and oil from pores without drying. Skin is left refreshed and infused with moisture and nutrients.
Formulated to purge pores of toxins without drying out the skin. Enriched with detoxifying Bentonite Clay and soothing Calamine. Bentonite, a clay formed from volcanic ash, is rich in essential minerals and one of the most oil-absorbent of all clays, drawing out impurities to cleanse skin’s surface. Diverse hydrator Calamine acts as a moisturizer for dry skin, an oil-controlling agent for oily skin, and clarifies to help even tone and minimize pores.
Directions: After cleansing, apply a thick opaque layer to clean, dry skin. Avoid hairline, eyebrows, eye area and lips. Leave on for 5-10 minutes or until the mask is dry. Rinse thoroughly. Use once or twice a week.
WARNING: Not suitable for sensitive skin. For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes. Test a small area first to determine sensitivity. Discontinue use if irritation occurs and consult physician.
Formulated Without: Phthalates, Parabens, Sulfates, Mineral Oil, Petrolatum, or Urea
If you have normal to oily skin, and are seeking a very effective clay mask, then Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Masque should definitely be on your radar. This is a very effective clay mask that helps balance skin by removing excessive oils, it heals breakouts, helps unclog congested pores and leaves skin soft and smooth. Additionally, I have used it as a spot treatment on the occasional pimple, but generally apply it to my entire face. I have normal/combination skin (normal everywhere, but in my T-zone– where I have a bit more oil), and I neither find this mask drying, nor irritating.
According to Kiehl's,
Our Amazonian White Clay mask helps draw out impurities while smoothing and refining skin. This pore minimizing mask for oily skin and normal skin helps unclog pores and smooth skin texture.
Features:
• Refines and detoxifies skin to draw out dirt and toxins that can cause clogged pores
• Purifies skin to visibly minimize pores and reduce oil
• Helps refine and smooth skin
Directions: After cleansing, apply a thin layer to damp skin, avoiding the immediate eye area
Allow to dry for approximately ten minutes. When dry, gently remove mask using a warm, wet towel and pat dry.
Overall Assessment: This is a very nice clay mask, and definitely worth trying if you have normal to oily skin. If you happen to pass a Kiehl's counter, I would recommend checking to see whether they have a sample that you can take home to try.
I am a big fan of Eve Lom Skincare, and over the years I have tried a lot of their products, but my favorite in the last few years has undoubtedly been the Eve Lom Rescue Mask. This miracle mask, which long ago achieved cult-status, is a clay-based mask that deep cleans pores, heals break-outs, reduces puffiness and leaves skin unbelievably soft, smooth and luminous. Unlike many clay masks, this one does not dry out or irritate the skin, and in fact it has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce inflammation and redness.
It does contain camphor, and therefore if you are allergic or sensitive to this ingredients, then this mask is not for you. That said, while I often find camphor-based skincare products irritating to my skin, and they can cause my eyes to water, that is not the case with this mask. The camphor is neither overpowering, nor it its aroma long-lasting. I faintly detect its scent when I first apply the mask, but once it dries down the aroma dissipates altogether.
According to Eve Lom,
Our multi award-winning, weekly complexion booster and emergency treatment for sluggish, stressed-out skin. Featuring Camphor, Almond and Honey-infused Kaolin Clay, it is the perfect weekly deep clean to keep your complexion in radiant condition. Rescue Mask is also on hand when skin becomes stressed and in need of extra help. Whether it's blotchy, irritable break-outs or morning-after puffiness, this hard-working and versatile mask will get your skin back on track.
Directions:
-Shake the tube well or stir the product in jar with the included spatula.
-Apply a medium to thick layer over clean, dry skin.
-Leave on and relax for around 15 to 20 minutes.
-To remove, gently buff the dry mask with fingertips or use the Eve Lom Muslin Cloth with small, upward circular motions (sold separately).
-Rinse well with tepid water and gently pat to dry.
-This product may be used as an allover mask or spot treatment for targeted blemish control.
Benefits:
- Deep cleanses without drying, gently decongests pores and absorbs excess oil
- Smoothes and conditions skin surface, leaving it supple and soft
- Helps calms redness and irritation
Actives:
- Kaolin Clay (absorbs excess oils and reduces puffiness),
- Camphor (cools and decongests),
- Ground Almonds (to gently exfoliate)
- Honey (condition the skin).
Malin+Goetz Clarifying Clay Mask is a wonderful multitasking clay mask that is perfect for combination to oily skin types. While my skin is normal to combination I do not find it in the least bit drying or irritating.
This mask utilizes natural pumice exfoliating particles in concert with bentonite and kaolin clay, therefore while the clay draws out impurities that clog pores, the exfoliating particles remove dead skin cells making it far easier to clear congested pores. I simply apply the mask to freshly cleaned skin and let it dry– I tend to leave it on between 5-10 minutes– then I dampen my hands with warm water and gently massage my skin to activate the exfoliating particles. Once I rinse my skin it is left soft, smooth and luminous. This mask is also remarkably effective when used as a spot treatment on breakouts, and I recently had a small breakout on my chin that this mask healed overnight.
According to Malin+Goetz,
Our 5-minute clay mask helps to clarify oily prone skin. Multi-tasking for all skin types, including sensitive, refined bentonite and kaolin clay deeply purifies and effectively absorbs impurities while natural pumice powder gently exfoliates. A concentrated blend of five botanical extracts and sunflower seed fatty acids hydrate, protect and soothe. Natural fragrance and color.
Directions: Apply to a clean, dry skin 1-2 times per week. Leave on for 5 minutes or until dry (no longer than 10 min). Dampen hands and gently massage to exfoliate and rinse clean.
Select ingredients.
• bentonite and kaolin clays absorb excess oil.
• gentle pumice powder physically exfoliates.
• glycerin and sunflower seed fatty acids moisturize and soothe.
I received a lovely email from a longtime LSBB reader who wanted to express that the winter has wrought considerable havoc on her skin this year, and not only is her normal skin exceptionally dry, but that she has also been having some unusual breakouts as well. She wanted to know if I had a favorite affordable range of products that she could use to spot treat the breakouts without drying the rest of her skin.
Interestingly, in addition to the fact that my normal/combination skin has been especially dry this winter, I have also been getting a few breakouts on my chin that I have been spot-treating with my tried and true Derma E Purifying Daily Detox Scrub and Purifying 2-in-1 Charcoal Mask. In fact, when I have these breakouts I like to use the scrub at night on my chin and then apply the charcoal mask on the breakouts alone. This combination is quite effective, and my pimples clear quickly, and my skin is not left dry, taut. red or flaky.
About Derma E,
DERMA E didn’t start out in the beauty aisle or the boardroom. Instead, we began in a small health food store in Southern California. Our first product was a jar of Vitamin E 12,000 I.U. Moisturizing Cream. People were amazed at the results it had on their skin and word caught on.
Over the years we’ve introduced many extraordinary products, each one rooted in our belief that skin health can be visibly improved through the right combination of potent vitamins, wholesome nutrients and exceptional ingredients.
Today we’ve grown to become one of the largest natural facial care brands in the U.S. We attribute our success to honoring our customers with products that promote healthier-looking skin and business ethics that promote a healthier world.
Derma E Purifying Daily Detox Scrub ($15.50 for 4 oz. from Derma E, Ulta, Skin Care RX, Walgreens, Birchbox and Dermstore): This is a highly effective exfoliant that gently lifts dead skin cells and dirt leaving skin clean, clear and radiant. The exfoliating particles are small in size, and they are gentle enough against the skin that one could use this scrub on a daily basis, or as needed, for oilier skin types. For my normal to combination skin, I find that I only need to use this scrub once or twice a week to see all of the benefits. While the Menthol, Glyceryl Stearate Citrate is toward the middle of the list of ingredients, it only offers the faintest tingle to the skin, and serves to be refreshing rather than irritating. This scrub is very well-suited for combination to oily skin.
According to Derma E, Gentle enough for daily use, this detox scrub lifts away micropollutants and impurities while promoting oxygenation for a fresh, healthy radiance. Doctor developed and clinically tested, this revitalizing formula contains some of the most powerful minerals and natural toxin fighters from the earth and from the sea. Kimarine® Wakame is a potassium-rich, magnesium-rich seaweed that is clinically proven to protect skin against environmental pollutants (exhaust fumes, cigarette smoke, heavy metals). Bladderwrack is an antioxidant-rich, mineral-rich seaweed known for its water-binding properties, supporting healthy skin hydration and nourishment. Activated Charcoal, known for absorbing 100 to 200 times its weight in impurities, helps remove toxins from the skin’s surface. Apricot Seed Powder gently exfoliates away micropollutants, and Green Tea delivers potent antioxidant defense.
Directions: Apply a small amount to wet or dry skin and gently massage in circular motions. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat dry. Gentle enough for daily use.
Derma E Purifying 2-in-1 Charcoal Mask ($19.50 Derma E, Ulta, Skin Care RX, Skin Store, Walgreens, Target, Beauty Encounter and Birchbox): This 2-in-1 charcoal and clay mask not only draws out impurities, debris and excess sebum as many clay masks do, but it also contains exfoliating particles that sweep away dead skin cells. Simply apply it as a traditional clay mask, let it dry after about 5 minutes, then wet fingers and gently massage mask in a circular motion in order to activate the exfoliant. Skin is left remarkably clean, decongested and radiant. I neither find it stripping, nor uncomfortable on the skin. However, the refreshing peppermint tingle from the Menthyl Lactate, which is an ester of menthol and lactic acid, may be too active for people with particularly sensitive skin. For my normal/combination skin it is refreshing and exhilarating, and not in the least bit drying or irritating.
According to Derma E,
Purifying 2-in-1 Charcoal Mask deeply detoxifies skin of harmful micropollutants in two ways: (1) Natural clays infused with Kimarine® Wakame, Bladerwrack and Activated Charcoal lift out dirt, oil and bacteria to decongest pores as the mask dries; (2) Apricot Seed Powder exfoliates away dead skin cells and captured debris upon removal. Kaolin and Bentonite Clays absorb excess oils and impurities, relieving skin congestion. Kimarine® Wakame is a potassium-rich, magnesium-rich seaweed that is clinically proven to protect skin against environmental pollutants (exhaust fumes, cigarette smoke, heavy metals). Bladderwrack is an antioxidant-rich, mineral-rich seaweed known for its water-binding properties, supporting healthy skin hydration and nourishment. Activated Charcoal, known for absorbing 100 to 200 times its weight in impurities, purges pores of deeply rooted toxins, then Apricot Seed Powder gently exfoliates away micropollutants. Ideal for oily, active or urban skin types, even safe for reactive skin (minimal ingredients and allergy-tested), used this formula once or twice a week for skin that looks dramatically fresher, healthier and purely glowing.
Directions: Apply generously to clean facial skin, avoiding eye and lip area. Leave on for 5 minutes or until mask is completely dry. Moisten fingertips, then massage mask gently in a circular motion to activate exfoliants. Concentrate on areas of congestion such as nose, chin and forehead. Rinse thoroughly, or remove with a damp cloth. Pat dry. Use 1-2 times a week.
Overall Assessment: Derma E Purifying Daily Detox Scrub and Purifying 2-in-1 Charcoal Mask are both perfectly suited for most types of skin to detox, clarify, exfoliate and draw out impurities. For dry skin, they are great for periodic use, as needed. However, for normal to oily skin types, these are perfect to use a couple of times a week. They are also very effective to spot treat breakouts, to unclog pores on the nose and chin, and to generally leave skin clear.
Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own (Affiliate Links).
I am always so delighted to use anything from Painted Earth, and therefore I was very excited to try the Painted Earth Watermelon Wine Masque Kit. I love using masks, and this kit is a welcome addition to my collection of masks.
Painted Earth is a cruelty-free brand and is committed to ending animal testing:
We do not test our finished products on animals, nor do we allow others to test on our behalf. Additionally, we require our suppliers to certify that the raw materials used in the manufacture of our products are not tested on animals.
Painted Earth Watermelon Wine Masque Kit is a two-step mask set that clarifies, detoxifies and moisturizes the skin. You simply a teaspoon of the Mineral Rich Red Clay Powder Masque into a small bowl, add two droppers full of Watermelon Wine Beauty Elixir and then slowly add enough water to form a paste of your desired consistency. I leave it on for 10-15 minutes, or until it dries, and then thoroughly rinse. Skin and pores are left very clean, and it doesn't dry out the skin because the Elixir adds vital moisture. I have normal/combination skin, and like to use this one a week or once every two weeks.
According to Painted Earth,
A potent, first of its kind, two-step mask that delivers multiple benefits; clarifying, detoxifying and moisturizing. A clay masque that leaves your skin radiant, supple and glowing. Not only does it detoxify (like a lot of masques on the market) but it penetrates deeply to add nutrients and moisture deep into the dermis.
An earthy melody of organic powders and oils unleash their Fountain-of-Youth properties by combating free radicals, promoting cell regeneration and packing skin with powerful minerals that turn back the hands of time so you can rule forever young.
Steep your skin in a hydrating and healing masque of botanicals rich in antioxidants, natural-sourced vitamins and minerals leaving behind a vibrantly gorgeous complexion.
Kit Includes:
1(one) 2oz jar Mineral Rich Red Clay Powder Masque
1(one) 1/2oz bottle Watermelon Wine Beauty Elixir
Directions: To experience this masque: Using a glass or ceramic container and wooden spoon (do not use metal tools), mix 1 teaspoon of the 1st jar (Mineral Rich Red Clay) with one or two droppers of the 2nd vial (Watermelon Wine Elixir) and just enough warm water to make a paste. Using fingertips or brush, spread a consistent layer to fully cover the skin (avoid getting clay in mouth, eyes, ears, nose.) Relax, think some peaceful thoughts and allow it to do its magic (about 6 minutes for sensitive skin; 10 minutes for normal skin). Rinse off completely with warm water and gently pat dry to complete your royal ritual, follow with your favorite Painted Earth toner and moisturizer. Use 1-2 times a week.
The Watermelon Wine Beauty Elixir Select Ingredients and their Attributes:
• Grape Seed Oil (Wine) {rich in polyphenols, omega-6 essential fatty acids and Omega-9 fatty acids, gamma tocopherols (Vitamin E) and antioxidants}revered for its anti-inflammatory antioxidants also known to retard the aging process and prevent acne breakouts while it effectively adds moisture to your skin balancing both dry and oily patches.
• Watermelon Seed Oil {rich in linoleic and oleic acid and numerous vitamin and trace minerals} has powerful detoxification properties, which makes it potent in fighting wrinkles and for balancing oil production.
• Apricot Kernel Oil is highly nutritive oil, it soften, soothes and protects the skin and leaves it nourished and hydrated. It is an emollient and heals parched, dry, itchy, mature and problem skins.
The Mineral Rich Red Clay Select Ingredients and their Attributes:
• Moroccan Red Clay (rich in magnesium, iron, calcium and potassium) reputed to clarify, exfoliate, absorb impurities, detoxify and moisturize the skin while improving texture and adding firmness.
• Marshmallow Root (rich in mucilage polysaccarides) which possess healing, moisturizing and soothing properties.
• Licorice Root very soothing for dry, irritated skin.
• Turmeric Powder has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial benefits to help reduce redness and blemishes and calm skin.
Mineral Rich Red Clay Masque Ingredients: Moroccan Red Clay, Licorice Root, Beet Root, Marshmallow Root, Turmeric root, Thyme, Orange Peel, Chamomile Flower, Lavender Essential Oil.
In the Powder you will find healing clay's, roots and herbs, such as Ingredients: Moroccan Red Clay, Licorice Root, Beet Root, Marshmallow Root, Turmeric root, Thyme, Orange Peel, Chamomile Flower, Lavender Essential Oil.
Painted Earth Lip Stuff is a wonderfully nourishing lip balm that heals chapped lips and leaves them soft, smooth and very moisturized. It is very emollient and lightweight on the lips, and has a slight sweet taste that fades rather quickly. I have the Watermelon flavor, which appears to be sold out, but they also have Black Cherry, Blackberry & Pomegranate and Cucumber Melon.
Overall Assessment: I am very pleased with with the Painted Earth Watermelon Wine Masque Kit & Lip Stuff, and continued to be impressed by Painted Earth products.
Kit $52.00 (Save $11.00) Watermelon Wine Beauty Elixir by itself $38.00 Mineral Rich Red Clay Masque by itself $25.00 from Painted Earth.
Lip Stuff $4.50 from Painted Earth (Unaffiliated Links).
Derma E is one of my favorite affordable natural skin brands, and I use their products all of the time. They make so many amazing products that live up to their claims, that pamper the skin, and that don't break the budget. Here are two of my recent go-to products as the weather warms up in Los Angeles.
About Derma E,
DERMA E didn’t start out in the beauty aisle or the boardroom. Instead, we began in a small health food store in Southern California. Our first product was a jar of Vitamin E 12,000 I.U. Moisturizing Cream. People were amazed at the results it had on their skin and word caught on.
Over the years we’ve introduced many extraordinary products, each one rooted in our belief that skin health can be visibly improved through the right combination of potent vitamins, wholesome nutrients and exceptional ingredients.
Today we’ve grown to become one of the largest natural facial care brands in the U.S. We attribute our success to honoring our customers with products that promote healthier-looking skin and business ethics that promote a healthier world.
Derma E Purifying Daily Detox Scrub ($15.50 for 4 oz. from Derma E, Ulta, Skin Care RX, Walgreens, Birchbox and Dermstore): This is a highly effective exfoliant that gently lifts dead skin cells and dirt leaving skin clean, clear and radiant. The exfoliating particles are small in size, and they are gentle enough against the skin that one could use this scrub on a daily basis, or as needed, for oilier skin types. For my normal to combination skin, I find that I only need to use this scrub once or twice a week to see all of the benefits. While the Menthol, Glyceryl Stearate Citrate is toward the middle of the list of ingredients, it only offers the faintest tingle to the skin, and serves to be refreshing rather than irritating. This scrub is very well-suited for combination to oily skin.
According to Derma E, Gentle enough for daily use, this detox scrub lifts away micropollutants and impurities while promoting oxygenation for a fresh, healthy radiance. Doctor developed and clinically tested, this revitalizing formula contains some of the most powerful minerals and natural toxin fighters from the earth and from the sea. Kimarine® Wakame is a potassium-rich, magnesium-rich seaweed that is clinically proven to protect skin against environmental pollutants (exhaust fumes, cigarette smoke, heavy metals). Bladderwrack is an antioxidant-rich, mineral-rich seaweed known for its water-binding properties, supporting healthy skin hydration and nourishment. Activated Charcoal, known for absorbing 100 to 200 times its weight in impurities, helps remove toxins from the skin’s surface. Apricot Seed Powder gently exfoliates away micropollutants, and Green Tea delivers potent antioxidant defense.
Directions: Apply a small amount to wet or dry skin and gently massage in circular motions. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat dry. Gentle enough for daily use.
Derma E Purifying 2-in-1 Charcoal Mask ($19.50 Derma E, Ulta, Skin Care RX, Skin Store, Walgreens, Target, Beauty Encounter and Birchbox): This 2-in-1 charcoal and clay mask not only draws out impurities, debris and excess sebum as many clay masks do, but it also contains exfoliating particles that sweep away dead skin cells. Simply apply it as a traditional clay mask, let it dry after about 5 minutes, then wet fingers and gently massage mask in a circular motion in order to activate the exfoliant. Skin is left remarkably clean, decongested and radiant. I neither find it stripping, nor uncomfortable on the skin. However, the refreshing peppermint tingle from the Menthyl Lactate, which is an ester of menthol and lactic acid, may be too active for people with particularly sensitive skin. For my normal/combination skin it is refreshing and exhilarating, and not in the least bit drying or irritating.
According to Derma E,
Purifying 2-in-1 Charcoal Mask deeply detoxifies skin of harmful micropollutants in two ways: (1) Natural clays infused with Kimarine® Wakame, Bladerwrack and Activated Charcoal lift out dirt, oil and bacteria to decongest pores as the mask dries; (2) Apricot Seed Powder exfoliates away dead skin cells and captured debris upon removal. Kaolin and Bentonite Clays absorb excess oils and impurities, relieving skin congestion. Kimarine® Wakame is a potassium-rich, magnesium-rich seaweed that is clinically proven to protect skin against environmental pollutants (exhaust fumes, cigarette smoke, heavy metals). Bladderwrack is an antioxidant-rich, mineral-rich seaweed known for its water-binding properties, supporting healthy skin hydration and nourishment. Activated Charcoal, known for absorbing 100 to 200 times its weight in impurities, purges pores of deeply rooted toxins, then Apricot Seed Powder gently exfoliates away micropollutants. Ideal for oily, active or urban skin types, even safe for reactive skin (minimal ingredients and allergy-tested), used this formula once or twice a week for skin that looks dramatically fresher, healthier and purely glowing.
Directions: Apply generously to clean facial skin, avoiding eye and lip area. Leave on for 5 minutes or until mask is completely dry. Moisten fingertips, then massage mask gently in a circular motion to activate exfoliants. Concentrate on areas of congestion such as nose, chin and forehead. Rinse thoroughly, or remove with a damp cloth. Pat dry. Use 1-2 times a week.
Overall Assessment: These are both perfectly suited for most types of skin to detox, clarify, exfoliate and draw out impurities. For dry skin, they are great for periodic use, as needed. However, for normal to oily skin types, these are perfect to use a couple of times a week.
Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own (Affiliate Links).
Goldfaden MD Facial Detox Clarify + Clear Mask is a very effective face mask that clears blemishes, draws out impurities, soothes and calms the skin and leaves skin looking radiant, soft and smooth. Simply apply a thin layer to the entire face, avoiding the eye area, or use a a spot treatment on blemishes. Leave it on for about 10-15 minutes and then thoroughly rinse the skin. The combination of Camphor and Sulfur cause the skin to tingle, but I neither find it uncomfortable nor irritating, and it does not leave my skin taut or dry. If you have very sensitive skin you might want to patch test it first, but if you have a sensitivity to Camphor– or any of the other ingredients– then this mask should be avoided.
According to Goldfaden MD,
Dr. Goldfaden's gentle mask’s ingredients go beyond targeting existing problem areas to improve the look of overall complexion and avoid the appearance of future breakouts. Facial Detox is an advanced purifying mask which employs the soothing benefits of Zinc Oxide, Sulfur and Camphor to effectively deep clean blemish-prone skin, minimize the appearance of pores, soothe the skin, and give it an even, youthful-looking tone. Developed to use as an overall facial mask, this powerhouse formula works to unveil a clearer looking, radiant even-toned complexion.
Directions: Apply a thin layer to the entire facial area or use as a spot treatment on existing flaws up to 4 times per week. Leave on for 10-15 minutes and wash off with water. Can also be used as a spot treatment to reduce the appearance of existing unwanted marks.
Overall Assessment: If you have oily or combination skin, this mask is a great choice for weekly treatments. It is also a nice mask to have on hand for periodic breakouts and spot treatments.
If you love clay masks, as do I, then do I ever have a treat from Australia for you. Sand & Sky Brilliant Skin Detoxify+Brighten is an effective 4-in-1 Australian pink clay mask, infused with a cocktail of effective botanicals, that only needs to be left on for a mere 10 minutes in order to boost radiance, clear clogged pores, regulate sebum production and detoxify the skin. The beautiful pink clay, which dries white, does not dry out the skin or leave it taut and uncomfortable. Instead, skin looks luminous with a pronounced clarity, and it feels noticeably refreshed. This luxurious mask comes with a dedicated high quality brush– which makes for easy and clean application– and it prevents you from having to dip your fingers into the chic glass jar. While this can be used 2-3 times a week, I tend to prefer to use it once a week on my normal/combination skin. This clay mask has a faint, but discernible scent from the botanical infused clay itself, but it is neither artificial, nor long-lasting.
According to Sand & Sky,
Sand & Sky is Australian and is a unique 4-in-1 treatment that helps to detoxify and brighten skin in just 10 minutes. Brilliant Skin™works by combating pollution and minimizing excess oil whilst refining pores, regulating sebum and reducing pigmentation to reveal smooth skin with a glow. The hero ingredient is Australian Pink Clay. Its non-drying formula restores the skin’s natural defense shield, helping to shrink and refine pores. The perfect pick-me-up for dull complexions, Brilliant Skin™provides the deepest cleanse for impressive results from the first use.
To invigorate skin and brighten further, organic liquorice and old man’s weed (another Aussie gem) help to regenerate skin cells and stimulate cell production, gently removing pigmentation clusters from the skin’s surface. To continue this refining action, organic pomegranate and aloe vera tighten pores and soothe, stimulating collagen production for long-term firming. Brilliantly brightening, the pink clay is also complemented by kakadu plum and organic mangosteen to guard against free radical damage and create a defensive shield to deflect harmful pollutants. Impaired by absolutely nothing and suitable even for sensitive skin types – no nasties nor animal testing here! – this luscious, naturally powered clay mask instantly boosts radiance, leaving you with a clearer complexion and an unbelievable, youthful glow.
Directions: Use 2-3 times a week if you have oily to combination skin, or 1-2 times weekly if you have dry or sensitive skin. Apply evenly to freshly cleansed skin using the applicator brush provided.
Give it about 10 minutes to let the mask dry completely. Gently remove with warm water and pat dry using a soft clean towel. *Don't be alarmed if you feel a slight tingle! It just means that the active ingredients are working hard to tackle impurities. Ingredients: Kaolin (Australian clay), Water (Aqua), Bentonite, Aloe barbadensis (Aloe Vera), Leaf Juice ORGANIC, Retinyl palmitate (Vitamin A), dl-alpha-Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Terminalia Ferdinandiana (Kakadu plum) Fruit Extract*, Hamamelis virginiana (Witch Hazel), Extract, Glycyrrhiza glabra (Liquorice) Extract ORGANIC Punica granatum (Pomegranate) Sterols, Garcinia mangostana (Mangosteen) Extract, Centipedia Cunninghami Extract (Old man’s weed)*, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Undaria pinnatifida (kelp) Extract ORGANIC CI 77491 Benzyl Alcohol Phenoxyethanol Dehydroacetic , Acid Lactic Acid d-Limonene
Overall Assessment: If you love clay masks, this is definitely a great one that needs to be on your radar.
May Lindstrom, the eponymously named line of its creator, is a healthy skincare collection that uses sustainably sourced certified organic, wild harvested, biodynamic and vegan ingredients of the highest quality. May, a former model known as the "skin chef," lovingly makes each batch by hand, and is among the short list visionaries to create ultra luxurious natural skincare products. More of a magician, or alchemist, May has an innate understanding of the raw materials and is able to commingle disparate elements to create harmonious blends that ignite the senses and nourish the skin.
May Lindstrom is a line that inspires a profound engagement with the ritual associated with the finest quality skincare products that boast otherworldly textures, heavenly aromas, and astonishing results. Stress melts away as one yields oneself to the undeniable experiential aspect of this magical line, and one cannot help but savor every moment of this glorious process.
May Lindstrom The Honey Mud is a luscious product that can be used as a daily cleanser, or as a mask. It is formulated with raw honey, White Halloysite Clay and a lovely selection of pure plant oils that together balance skin, eliminate toxins, dead skin cells and dirt, and leave the skin deeply hydrated and silky smooth. The "pudding-like" consistency is silky smooth, velvety texture that is soft and creamy to the touch, and it feels ultra-luxe and sumptuous against the skin. It has a warm, sweet and delectable natural aroma– that frankly smells good enough to eat!
As a cleanser, this soothing, creamy mud thoroughly, and gently, cleans the skin without ever hinting at stripping it. Instead, it cleans pores, removes dead skin cells and removes all dirt and debris. Skin is left remarkably soft, supple, silky smooth, hydrated and luminous.
The Honey Mud can also be used as a brilliant treatment mask to gently exfoliate dead skin cells, to decongest pores, to brighten and to hydrate the skin.
According to May Lindstrom Skin,
Reveal a calm and balanced complexion that is plush, clear and breathtakingly soft. An exquisitely distinctive union of raw honey, white halloysite clay, and aromatic pure plant oils marry to envelope you in a truly intoxicating and highly addictive cleansing ritual. This silken, pudding-like treat gently frees you of the day’s pollutants, infusing your skin with active enzymes and nourishment while restoring your optimal hydration and individual rhythm.
Directions: As a cleanser: Massage a plump pea sized dollop into warm, damp skin, making circular motions with the pads of your fingertips to release makeup and debris before rinsing clear. As a mask: Apply liberally to clean, dry skin. Allow to penetrate for 10-20 minutes as desired.
May Lindstrom The Clean Dirt, which is described as an "energizing blend of cleansing clays, waring spices, and restorative salts," is wondrous purifying and exfoliating treatment that cleans clogged pores, eliminates dead skin cells while the water-activated Vitamin C brightens skin, encourages cell rejuvenation. It feels a bit like a very gentle microdermabrasion, but it neither irritates the skin, nor does it strip it in any way. Instead, skin is left silky smooth, velvety soft, supple and radiant. The exquisite natural aroma evokes the scent of the finest chai imaginable!
According to May Lindstrom Skin,
An energizing blend of cleansing clays, warming spices, and restorative salts lift impurities while a surge of H20-activated Vitamin C encourages cellular rejuvenation and undeniable luminosity. This stimulating treatment transforms and refines skin’s appearance with a potent cocktail of exfoliants, leaving you velvety smooth and gorgeously radiant.
Directions: Pour a teaspoon of powder formula into your palm, slowly adding drops of water to activate - blending to a grainy, mousse-like texture. Massage into skin avoiding the eye area. You should experience a slightly hot and tingling sensation. Rinse, and follow with The Youth Dew.
May Lindstrom The Problem Solver is an antioxidant-rich purifying mask that is formulated to clear clogged pores, boost circulation, heal blemishes, reduce inflammation, tighten the appearance of pores and restore luminosity to the skin. When water is introduced, The Problem Solver transforms into a fluffy mousse that feels phenomenal on the skin, and it boasts a level of efficacy that is truly impressive. In fact, the results are so pronounced that my skin looks as though I received a professional facial from this treatment alone. The results are truly phenomenal.
According to May Lindstrom Skin,
A jet-black fusion of antioxidant-rich raw cacao, healing bamboo, charcoal, soil nutrients, salts, and exotic warming spices go deep on a mission to reveal your most radiant self. This intense treatment masque effectively purifies & tightens pores, extinguishes inflammations, fights & heals blemishes, jump-starts circulation in the epidermis & detoxifies skin with delightful ease and power. The radically different powder-to-mousse formula activates on contact with water - only releasing its magic at the exact moment of use so you experience full potency every time.
Directions: Activate a tablespoon of powder formula with equal parts water in a bowl, blending to form a soft mousse. Massage over skin and relax. Treatment time is 45 minutes (or until fully dry). Expect a slightly hot and tingling sensation. Rinse and follow with The Youth Dew or The Blue Cocoon.
May Lindstrom The Facial Treatment Brush is the perfect brush for facial treatments, and it works perfectly for blending and applying The Problem Solver and The Clean Dirt. It is a vegan-friendly rush made from high quality Taklon fibers, a recyclable aluminum ferrule and a nicely balanced and ergonomic wooden handle that fits perfectly into your hands. The angled brush is ultra-effective for blending masks, and for distributing it evenly and effortlessly to the entire face.
According to May Lindstrom Skin,
This incredibly handsome brush is a must-have tool for creating your perfect facial treatment experience. Crafted with Vegan-friendly Taklon fibers, recyclable aluminum ferrule and a sturdy natural wood handle that feels nicely weighted in your hands, this is the ideal brush for effortlessly blending The Problem Solver and The Clean Dirt to their perfect texture.
Directions: Use to mix, and apply, May Lindstrom's The Clean Dirt and The Problem Solver.
Made from: Vegan-friendly Taklon fiber bristles, recyclable aluminum ferrule and natural-wood handle.
N.B. If you are planning to shop the upcoming Barneys New York LOVE YOURSELF Bag Event (details coming very soon!), then these products are most definitely worthy of your attention! May Lindstrom Skin products are available on the Barneys New York website.
