When I moved to NYC in 2013, I almost immediately faced skin and acne issues that I had never dealt with before. I don’t know if it was the polluted atmosphere, the food (and alcohol) I was consuming, or the stress – likely a combination of all of these things, but I suddenly had painful cysts on my chin all the time. I tried countless products, expensive facials and dermatologist-prescribed topical and oral medications. Nothing had a lasting effect, and painful cystic acne persisted. Perusing mindbodygreen had become part of my daily morning routine, and I came across this inexpensive bentonite clay promising to help heal any acne, scarring and skin woes. I can confidently say that this is the single best skin product I’ve ever purchased. And I’m not alone. With over 10,000 positive reviews on Amazon, the Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay is a cult-favorite.
In the first year of using this mask, I would apply it almost every day. While I definitely don’t do that anymore and the cystic acne is behind me (knock on wood), it is still my go-to whenever I feel like I need a detoxifying and clarifying reboot. The instructions say to mix with either water or apple cider vinegar, but for best results, I’d go with ACV. Not only does it create a smoother mask, but apple cider vinegar also has anti-inflammatory properties that your skin will love and that will contribute to soothing any acne flare ups. Be sure to moisturize after you wash it off!
In reading more about this wonderful product over the last few days, I have seen more than one suggestion to use this mask on your armpits to detox the aluminum and other toxic buildup before switching to natural deodorant. Wishing I had done it before making the switch (see my last article)!
3 Reasons Why I Recommend This Mask:
- It is all natural. The product is 100% calcium bentonite clay and nothing else! “Healing clays like bentonite have a high concentration of minerals including silica, calcium, magnesium, sodium, iron, and potassium. It also absorbs and removes toxins, heavy metals, impurities, and chemicals.” – an article titled Benefits of Bentonite Clay by Wellness Mama
- You can feel the effects! While it goes on super smooth, as the mask dries, it tightens and you can feel it drawing out toxins and shrinking your pores.
- You will notice results FAST. Many people point to noticeably smaller pores and smoother skin after just one use!
Notes:
1. Be sure you don’t mix your mask with a metal spoon – use a bamboo or wooden spoon instead. Metal will interact with the negative charge in the clay causing it to become less effective in pulling out toxins and heavy metals.
2. Clay can and will clog your drain! Be wary of this when washing it off.
