Bentonite clay has been used by individuals worldwide for many years to enhance the health and texture of their hair. It is a natural remedy used for generations because it can repair damaged hair, treat scalp conditions, and even promote growth. This article will explore the benefits of using bentonite clay for your haircare routine. We will look at how it works, its potential side effects, and how to use it properly to maximize its benefits.
What is bentonite clay?
Bentonite clay is an incredible natural resource used for centuries in DIY beauty treatments. This clay has a wide range of health and beauty benefits from volcanic ash. It’s often used to detoxify the body and clear skin issues—and it can even be used to improve the health of your hair!
This miraculous clay comprises several minerals, like silica and magnesium, making it incredibly absorbent. When mixed with water or other liquids, bentonite clay can form a paste-like substance applied topically or taken internally. Additionally, bentonite clay can help remove toxins from the scalp and hair follicles when used as a shampoo or conditioner due to its high mineral content. This powerful ingredient helps remove product build-up and encourages hair growth.
Benefits of using bentonite clay for hair
From treating a dry and itchy scalp to adding volume and shine, bentonite clay can give you the healthy, beautiful hair you desire. Here’s how this natural ingredient can benefit your locks.
Reduces frizz
The fantastic benefits of bentonite clay for frizzy hair start with its ability to absorb excess oil from the scalp. This helps reduce sebum production, which can lead to lifeless, unruly locks. When combined with water, bentonite clay creates a paste-like substance applied directly onto the scalp and left on for 15 minutes before rinsing off thoroughly. The result? Softer, smoother tresses without any greasy residue or build-up!
Eliminates dandruff
Bentonite clay has a negative electric charge that binds to the positive charge of toxins and impurities on the scalp. When applied to the scalp as a paste or mask, it helps remove sebum, dead skin cells, and other debris that lead to dandruff. Malassezia is a fungus commonly available on the scalp that causes dandruff and other related scalp conditions. Using bentonite clay for hair can help reduce the buildup of this fungus by cleansing the scalp thoroughly. The clay helps balance pH levels so your scalp isn’t too acidic or alkaline, preventing Malassezia growth.
Adds shine
Bentonite clay is gaining popularity as a natural way to add shine and moisture to the hair. Bentonite clay makes up to 60% of the dry weight in human hair, making it an important ingredient for adding shine, moisture-boosting properties, and protection from dull curls. Vinegar can be used as a cheap substitute for some of the bentonite clay in your product, while other ingredients like olive oil or coconut oil can provide additional moisture and shine.
Promotes hair growth
Dead skin cells, follicles, calcium, and sodium are all important for hair growth. Bentonite clay helps promote these things by absorbing excess oils and sweat. This results in less build-up and better absorption of nutrients into the hair follicle. Bentonite clay is also a good source of magnesium which helps to boost circulation and promotes healthy hair growth.
Strengthens hair
Bentonite clay is a natural mineral clay used as an effective hair-strengthening agent. The clay helps to improve the volume and texture of hair. Bentonite clay also helps improve scalp health by removing impurities and excess oils from the scalp.
Protects from infections
Bentonite clay is a natural and healthy way to protect against infections. It works by trapping toxins and bacteria in its microscopic pores, which prevents them from entering your cells and causing infection. Bentonite clay is also known for nourishing hair, making it an ideal choice for people who want to keep their locks healthy and free from damage.
How to make bentonite clay for hair care?
Creating a bentonite clay hair mask is an easy and natural way to improve the overall health of your hair. Bentonite clay has many benefits, including detoxifying and cleansing your scalp, removing build-up from styling products, and help promote healthy hair growth. This easy-to-make mask takes just minutes to prepare and can be used once or twice weekly for maximum results. How to make a bentonite clay hair mask is as follows:
- 1 cup of bentonite clay
- Six tsp. of apple cider vinegar
- Three tsp. of coconut oil, castor, olive oil, or almond oil
- Six tsp. of water
- Plastic or glass bowl
- Wooden spoon
Directions:
- Clay should be measured and poured into the bowl.
- If using oils, blend your powder after adding them.
- Add apple cider vinegar to the mixture if you’re using it.
- Aerate the mixture for 10–15 seconds.
- Add the required amount of water that your mask specifies.
- Stir constantly until the mixture resembles Greek yogurt in consistency.
How to apply the mask to your hair?
Masks are an essential part of any hair care routine. Whether you want to improve texture, add shine, or prevent breakage and damage, applying a mask is one of the best ways to get your locks looking and feeling great. Here’s how to apply a bentonite clay mask for healthy-looking locks:
- Wet your hair by rinsing it with water. This will make it easier to apply the hair mask evenly.
- Apply the bentonite clay mask from the roots to the tips of a handful of hair at once.
- Use a spray bottle to rewet your hair if it begins to dry.
- Put a shower hat on and roll up your hair.
- Put the mask on and wait 20 minutes.
- Clean the mask by rinsing it with warm water. Make use of shampoo.
- Before rinsing it once more, condition your hair.
Possible side effects
Bentonite clay is a popular choice for hair masks because it nourishes and protects the scalp and strands. Before applying the mask, however, it’s important to be aware of the possible side effects of using this powerful clay.
The most common side effect of using a bentonite clay hair mask is dryness. Though the minerals in the clay can help hydrate your hair, this isn’t always enough to keep it moisturized after use. To minimize dryness after use, try mixing bentonite with an oil base such as coconut or olive oil before application. Additionally, ensure not to leave your mask on longer than necessary since extended exposure can cause further dehydration.
In some cases, bentonite can also lead to scalp irritation or itching due to its alkaline nature.
Best practices for using bentonite clay
There are many uses for this powerful natural remedy, but it’s important to understand the best practices when incorporating bentonite clay into your self-care routine. Here are some essential tips for using bentonite clay safely and effectively.
- Always purchase pure, unrefined bentonite clay from a reputable source to ensure its quality and purity.
- Always make sure that your ingredients are fresh – never use expired powder!
- Before using the clay internally or externally, mix it with water until it forms a thick paste.
- Using glass or plastic utensils to mix the paste as metal can reduce the potency of the beneficial minerals in the clay.
- Always do a patch test before applying the mask or product to your face or body.
Final words
In conclusion, bentonite clay is a powerful, natural product that can benefit your hair. From nourishing and conditioning to strengthening strands and fighting frizz, this clay can transform damaged hair into healthier, more manageable locks. Taking just a few minutes each week to indulge in a bentonite clay hair mask can help you experience some of these incredible benefits. You won’t have to worry about harsh chemicals or synthetic ingredients damaging your tresses.