Green clay and all of its many names (marine clay, French green clay, illite clay – one that is rich in minerals) has always been a popular staple in the beauty community due to its many skin benefits.
Green clay has been around for centuries dating back to ancient times when it was used for it’s amazing healing properties.
It is mainly found in the south of France, (hints the name, ‘French green clay’) but it has also been found in other parts of the United States and Eastern Europe as well.
The green color is untreated and comes from the natural process it undergoes during its time in the sea. It is made from natural bio-degradable materials such as decomposed plant matter like algae and seaweed, as well as a large amount of minerals that include iron oxide, silicon, calcium, copper, potassium and more!
All of these things work together and make up the pretty green color that can range from a light to dark green.
What is green clay good for?
Skin Benefits
Green Clay is said to have internal and external benefits but is best known and used for topical skincare. Green clay and clays in general are great for skin care and ideal for oily acne prone skin because of its absorbency power. It is very absorbent and eliminates excess oil out of the skin, unclogs pores, draws out impurities and fights off bacteria. Once applied it removes out toxins and leaves a clean and smooth texture. Which makes it great for detoxifying.
Other Benefits: 
- exfoliating
- balance skins PH
- reduce oil
- tightens pores
- anti-bacterial
- toning
- firming
- clears acne
- eliminates free radicals
- stimulates cell rejuvenation
French Green Clay 8 oz 100% Pure Montmorillonite
Argiletz Laboratoires French Green Clay
Is green clay anti-inflammatory? 
Yes, green clay is anti-inflammatory and because of this it is both soothing and healing.
When applied to the skin it can help treat eczema, psoriasis, redness and irritation by directly targeting the ailment.
It is also great for healing wounds due to the antibacterial properties that is often found in a lot of blue and green clays.
However, not all clays are created equal. How much bacteria will be killed depends on the minerals and the PH level of the clay.
hair Benefits
Green clay is great for the hair because it strengthens and adds shine to hair. It’s also clarifying and helps with dandruff and itchy scalp too.
Due to the absorbent qualities, it also works to absorb the grease, excess oil and product build often found in the hair.
Cattier Oily Scalp Green Clay Shampoo
Benefits of drinking green clay?
Due to the detoxing powers, there are certain powders that you can ingest by mixing with water and drinking.
Drinking green clay is said to detox the body from metals, toxins, and bacteria. It cleans your digestive tract and helps with the overall function of the organs and body amongst other things.
Although there are many health benefits you still want to make sure you check the labels and do your research before ingesting anything.
Is Green Clay the Same as Bentonite?
Although bentonite and green clay have a few similarities like both being popular clays used in the cosmetic arena and both great for the skin due to their absorbent nature; they are not the same.
Besides the obvious difference with bentonite being greyish in color and green clay being green; Bentonite is composed of aged volcanic ash. Green clay is composed of minerals like iron, silica, calcium and decomposed plant matter.
Bentonite clay is best known for its detoxifying powers. This is due to its swelling properties, as once it gets wet it gets spongelike. This helps with absorbing toxins, impurities, and detoxing the skin.
It is extremely absorbent and best used for reducing excess oil from the skin and unclogging your pores.
Overall Thoughts
Green clay is one of the most popular and best choice clays for skincare and beauty due to all the many benefits listed above.
If you want a new natural ingredient to try for your skin or body care, give it a try!
It should definitely be on your list of beauty products. From the skin to hair benefits it’s no wonder it’s been around for centuries.
Let me know in the comments below, your favorite green clay to use and how you like to use it!
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