When I was a kid I loved to play in the mud. Buried deep in the family photo archives are pictures of me covered head to toe in thick red Georgia clay, the only part of me visible the huge toothy grin that expressed my utter joy to be rolling in the dirt. Though it’s been a while since I indulged in a good mud puddle with such abandon, I still love the squishy, soothing feel of a good clay-based skincare treatment. From a charcoal sponge to a gritty mask, earthy natural beauty essentials hold a place of honor in my medicine cabinet.
The lineup of clay-based complexion products is growing ever larger, and they’re especially handy at this time of year when the sweltering weather results in clogged pores and a generally grimy feel. Fight summer dirt with dirt while reveling in the cooling bubbles of a charcoal cleanser. Detox without drying by slathering on a mask of moisturizing pink French clay. Or, if you’re up for a little more effort, fill your tub with mud and dive in for a long, luxurious soak. As I recall from a few decades ago, it feels pretty darn good!
Shopping Guide: 1. Apotheke Charcoal Shampoo 2. Dr. Jart Dermaclear Trans-Foam Clay 3. Konjac Sponge 4. Osmia Organics Rose Clay Facial Soap 5. Clinique City Block Purifying Charcoal Cleansing Gel 6. Fresh Umbrian Clay Purifying Mask Images: 1. 2.