When is the Best Time to Apply a Clay Mask?

Just imagine yourself relaxing in a warm bubble bath, glass of wine in your hand, eyes closed and a clay mask on your face. It almost feels like the height of decadence, yet you don't have to be the Queen of England to do it. 

A high quality clay mask delivers a deep-down cleanse that removes impurities, fights excess oil and prevents acne. That gorgeous covering of thick, delicious clay will leave you looking and feeling refreshed.

Clay masks, however, can be a little tricky when you don’t use them properly. Use them too often and they leave your skin looking and feeling irritated. This kind of irritation does eventually go away but who needs it! So, the question is… When is the best time to apply a clay mask? And how often should it be incorporated into your overall skincare routine? To ensure you get the best results each time you mask up, here are some helpful tips:

How Often Should You Apply a Clay Mask?

While it can be tempting to use clay masks on a daily basis, your skin is going to eventually tell you to slow down. Unfortunately, the way it communicates is by making your skin red, itchy  and sensitive. 

Clay masks can be especially drying if used too frequently. Our advice is to use a clay mask once or twice per week. This way, you’ll see great results after each application, but you won’t be at risk of going overboard and causing dryness or redness.

The Best Time to Use a Clay Mask

Most of us have never considered that there’s an ideal time of day for applying a mask. Counterintuitively, the best time to use a clay mask is in the morning rather than at night. Here are a few reasons why:

• It’ll provide hydration: Different clay masks provide specific benefits for your skin. A clay mask with good hydration properties is great to use in the morning because our skin tends to naturally dry out overnight. Adding some extra moisturiser will ensure your skin looks and feels great all day, whilst also creating a nice base for any makeup application.
• Your skin will appear brighter and more radiant: Clay masks boost blood circulation and this results in a brighter, more youthful appearance on the face that will have your skin glowing all day long.
• Minimization of excess oil: If you’re prone to oily skin, you’re probably no stranger to having a greasy t-zone throughout the day. This is because this area of the face has more sebaceous glands. Using a clay mask as part of your morning skincare routine is the best way to keep your skin’s oiliness in check.

Just because masking in the morning provides great benefits, that doesn’t mean you can’t use them at night. Different masks are designed to do different things. If your mask formula is designed to hydrate the skin and provide a glow, it’s best to use it in the morning. If it’s meant to provide a deep, detox cleanse or an exfoliation, use it at night. 

Always Consider Your Skin Type 

We all have different skin. Whether you’re skin is normal, oily, or a combination of both, your skin is going to love different products, ingredients, and routines. When trying something new, give it time to see how it works for you. And don’t be afraid to test your clay masks in the morning and at night to find your personal preference.