Cosmetic clays have held an important place in cosmetic and dermocosmetic formulations for many years. They are natural mineral raw materials valued for their cleansing, absorbing, and nourishing properties. Thanks to their rich mineral content and broad spectrum of action, they are used in cosmetics for oily and problematic skin, as well as in products for sensitive or mature skin.
Clay minerals are natural crystalline earthy materials with very fine grain sizes—below 2 μm. Chemically, they consist mainly of hydrated aluminum silicates, also containing magnesium, iron, calcium, potassium, or sodium. Their characteristic layered structure is responsible for their unique adsorptive and ion-exchange properties. In addition to the clay minerals themselves, clays may also contain organic compounds, mineral salts, quartz, calcite, or other minerals naturally occurring in the environment.
Why are clays so popular in cosmetics?
Each type of clay has slightly different cosmetic and therapeutic properties. Depending on their mineral composition, clays can support wound healing, reduce excess sebum, act as antiseptics, improve skin hydration, support microcirculation, and help eliminate toxins. This is why they are so readily used in both classic skincare cosmetics and modern dermocosmetics.
The colors of clays – do they matter?
Clays occur naturally all over the world and can be found in various colors, such as white, red, yellow, green, brown, or pink. The color of the clay depends primarily on the content of specific minerals and trace elements. For example, green clay is particularly rich in iron compounds and is characterized by strong cleansing and sebum-regulating properties. White clay (kaolin), on the other hand, is much gentler, which is why it is used in products for dry, sensitive, and couperose skin.
Clays in cosmetics – not just for skincare
In cosmetics, clays are most often used in face masks, exfoliants, cleansing pastes, shampoos, soaps, and SPA-type preparations. Thanks to their ability to absorb impurities and excess lipids, they effectively cleanse the skin surface, leaving it matte and refreshed. At the same time, they provide the skin with valuable minerals that support natural regenerative processes.
In dermocosmetics, clays are also increasingly used as ingredients supporting the treatment of problematic skin—acne-prone, atopic, or seborrheic. Their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties help reduce irritation and support the reconstruction of the skin's hydrolipid barrier.
The growing interest in natural cosmetics means that clays are becoming an increasingly valued ingredient in modern cosmetic formulations. They combine natural origin with high effectiveness, perfectly aligning with current trends in conscious and safe skincare.
Clays in Miorelaxant Magic™ night care
You will also find interesting uses for clays in products from the Miorelaxant Magic™ line. Gold clay has been used in the Gold Night Mask – a smoothing night mask designed for all types of younger skin. The formula supports daily skin care, helping to improve its smoothness and fresh appearance. Purple clay, on the other hand, is found in the Violet Night Mask – a mask created for all types of mature skin. The product has been developed with the needs of skin requiring care that supports comfort, nourishment, and a smoother appearance in mind.
The Miorelaxant Magic™ line demonstrates that clays can be used not only in classic cleansing masks but also in modern night care formulas tailored to skin age and needs.
Sarruf, F. D., Contreras, V. J. P., Martinez, R. M., Velasco, M. V. R., & Baby, A. R. (2024). The scenario of clays and clay minerals use in cosmetics/dermocosmetics. Cosmetics, 11(1), 7.
Moraes, J. D. D., Bertolino, S. R. A., Cuffini, S. L., Ducart, D. F., Bretzke, P. E., & Leonardi, G. R. (2017). Clay minerals: Properties and applications to dermocosmetic products and perspectives of natural raw materials for therapeutic purposes—A review. International journal of pharmaceutics, 534(1-2), 213-219.
