How to Lift, Tone, and Detox Your Skin on National Mud Pack Day
September 30th marks National Mud Pack Day — and while we're not exactly sure where this "holiday" originated, we're definitely not mad about it. That's because mud and clay masks can work wonders on your skin: They absorb dirt and oil that can cause breakouts as well as tighten, tone and firm, just to name a few benefits. Here are a few of our favorite beauty products made with clay and mud to help you celebrate today...and every other day.
GlamGlow GravityMud Firming Treatment
It's no secret that we're big fans of GlamGlow's mud products, and one of their latest launches is still front and center in our beauty cabinets. Their GravityMud Firming Treatment ($69) is infused with glacial clay, hyaluronic acid, Icelandic kelp, and more key ingredients to lift, tone, and firm your skin. We're fond of this mask because of its convenient removal: after applying and allowing it to dry for 20 to 30 minutes, you simply peel the mask off and rinse off any residue.
If your pores are in need of deep cleaning, we also suggest the Hollywood-based brand's SuperCleanse Daily Clearing Cleanser ($39) for washing away makeup, dirt, and oil.
Josie Maran Whipped Mud Mask Argan Hydrating and Detoxifying Treatment
This Whipped Mud Mask by model-turned-skincare guru Josie Maran is a Sephora favorite, and with good reason. It's infused with argan oil that moisturizes your skin, while Moroccan rhassoul clay (which comes from volcanic ashes in the Atlas mountains, no less) detoxifies, tones, and rejuvenates. Another key ingredient is phytic acid, which brights and exfoliates to reveal glowing skin.
Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay
At under $8 per pound, this health foods market mainstay is quite possibly the best bang for your buck. (And a whopping majority of satisfied Amazon.com customers can't be wrong, right?) We love Aztec Secret's Indian Healing Clay for its Superwoman-like ability to draw out impurities. It also have a pulsating effect that makes the mask that much more enjoyable. It's made of 100% natural calcium bentonite clay with no fragrances, additives, and animal testing, which is great for sensitive skin and your conscience.
To use it, simply mix the clay with equal parts water or raw apple cider vinegar (or both), then lay it on your face in 1/4 or 1/2" thickness. Allow it to dry for 5 to 10 minutes if your skin is sensitive or 15 to 20 minutes if you have normal skin. You can also use it for body wraps, foot soaks, and insect bites, just to name a few!
This is one of Mary Shenouda the Paleo Chef's beauty secrets! Watch the video below to learn how she makes a similar mud mask.
