The trend for using activated charcoal and clay in many products in the beauty and skincare market continues to grow and this is thanks to their many benefits, natural source and ease of use.
The use of clay type products is thought to date back to 60 BC in Rome. Throughout ancient history, clay has been used topically for soothing the skin and it has been widely used in skincare products over the years.
However, there has been a resurgence in popularity of this simple, yet effective ingredient with it making its way into many more products, in particular facial masks.
Facial masks have experienced significant growth in popularity with a recent report[1] indicating that the global facial mask market was worth approximately USD 32.76 billion in 2018 and is expected to generate around USD 50.91 billion by 2025.
According to the report increasing pollution and long working hours have increased the adoption of numerous skincare products across the world, particularly facial masks with a preference for natural and organic products.
This trend is evident in the number of masks (and other skin and hair care products) using ingredients such as clay and charcoal.
Bentonite clay is essentially volcanic ash and is found in several parts of the world, but especially near Fort Benton in Wyoming, USA, hence the name. It contains montmorillonite that gives it a flaky texture when exposed to air or water. It has unique properties which make is incredibly useful in skincare products. The clay carries a negative charge that causes it to attract substances with a positive charge, including toxins, bacteria and fungi.
Skin is exposed to harmful pollution and free radicals daily. These accumulate on the skin causing breakouts and premature ageing, affecting the appearance and general health of the skin.
The negatively charged ions in Bentonite clay attract and draw out the toxins to the skin surface. It also contains magnesium, silicate, copper, iron, and potassium, which also boost skin health.
Bentonite clay has several uses: it helps treat acne; unclogs pores, draws out toxins from the skin; naturally exfoliates; softens and brightens the skin; reduces the appearance of scars; heals and regenerates skin tissues; evens skin tone; tones and tightens the skin; reduces blemishes and prevents blackheads.
SoftClay Green Powder aids oil absorption, restores balance, simulates cell regeneration and has a mattifying effect. SoftClay Pink Powder is used for lightening; skin elasticity; radiance and balance and reduces irritation. SoftClay White Powder performs as a deep cleanser; purifies; refines the skin; helps with hair volume. SoftClay Brown Powder mattifies; offers light exfoliation and moisturisation.
Charcoal, known for its absorption properties, has also attracted the attention of skincare formulators. Many Asian civilizations including Japan, South Korea, China and Taiwan have used charcoal for centuries.
Charcoal can attract toxins and when used on skin it draw out impurities like oil, dirt, sweat and make up like a magnet from your face. ... This makes it ideal for shine-prone skin. It also helps deep clean your pores and free them from excess sebum, dead skin cells and oil.
Chemgrit Cosmetics supplies clay and charcoal products to the cosmetic and beauty industry.
[1] “Facial Mask Market by Packaging Type (Tubes, Sachets, Jars & Containers, and Others), by Type (Clay Mask, Natural Ingredient Mask, Peel-Off Mask, Thermal or Self-Heating Mask, Cream Mask, Warm-Oil Mask, and Others), and by Distribution Channel (Pharmacy & Drug Stores, Retail & Hypermarkets, Direct Selling, Beauty Salons, and Internet Retailing): Global Industry Perspective, Comprehensive Analysis, and Forecast, 2018–2025”. Zion Market Research
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