15 Head-to-Toe Uses for Bentonite Clay
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Bentonite clay is one of those simple natural products that can end up replacing several things in the bathroom cabinet.
Made primarily from naturally occurring clay minerals, bentonite has an unusual ability to absorb water and bind substances to its surface. That is one reason it has become popular in homemade face masks, scalp treatments, body care and other simple beauty routines.
And the best part?
A small container can last a surprisingly long time.
From greasy roots to tired feet, here are 15 practical ways to use bentonite clay from head to toe, plus a few important precautions to know before putting it on your skin.
First, How Do You Mix Bentonite Clay?
For most of the ideas below, you only need a very basic clay paste.
Basic Bentonite Clay Paste
Mix:
- 1 tablespoon bentonite clay
- 1 to 2 tablespoons water
Add the water gradually until you have a smooth paste similar to thick yoghurt.
For a gentler mixture, particularly on dry skin, you can make the paste thinner and leave it on for less time.
Important: Never inhale bentonite clay powder. Pour and mix it carefully so you do not create clouds of fine dust.
1. Clarifying Scalp Mask
Hair products, dry shampoo, oils and sweat can gradually leave your scalp feeling heavy or greasy.
A bentonite clay scalp treatment can be useful occasionally when your normal shampoo doesn’t seem to be removing all that buildup.
Mix the clay with enough water to create a loose paste.
Apply it primarily to the scalp and roots rather than coating all of your hair.
Leave for around 5 to 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly and shampoo normally.
Do not allow the clay to become completely hard on your scalp.
If you enjoy making your own hair-care products, you may also like our Homemade Coconut Oil Shampoo Bar Recipe.
2. Oily Hair Root Treatment
Don’t want to cover your whole scalp?
Try using a very small amount of bentonite paste just around particularly oily areas such as the hairline.
Apply it before showering, leave it for a few minutes and rinse thoroughly.
Because bentonite is absorbent, it can help remove some of the excess oil sitting on the scalp and hair.
Don’t overdo it. Using strong clarifying treatments too frequently can leave the scalp and hair feeling dry.
3. Simple Bentonite Clay Face Mask
This is probably the best-known use for bentonite clay.
Mix approximately:
- 1 tablespoon bentonite clay
- Enough water to create a spreadable paste
Apply a thin layer over clean skin while avoiding the eyes and lips.
Leave it for around 5 to 10 minutes initially rather than waiting until your face feels completely tight and uncomfortable.
Rinse with lukewarm water and apply your normal moisturiser afterwards.
People with oily skin may particularly enjoy this treatment because clay can absorb surface oils.
4. Oily T-Zone Mask
You don’t have to put clay over your entire face.
If your cheeks are dry but your forehead, nose and chin become oily, try using bentonite clay only across your T-zone.
This targeted approach can be considerably gentler than applying an absorbent mask everywhere.
Leave the mask on briefly, wash it away and moisturise as usual.
This is also a good reminder that natural skin care doesn’t have to mean covering yourself in homemade mixtures every day. Sometimes using less works better.
For another simple homemade skin-care idea, see How To Make Your Own Aloe Vera Gel.
5. Occasional Spot Mask
Got one particularly oily-looking blemish?
Instead of applying a complete face mask, dab a tiny amount of bentonite paste over the area and allow it to sit briefly before rinsing.
The clay may help absorb some surface oil, but it isn’t an acne medication and shouldn’t replace treatment recommended by a dermatologist.
Avoid applying clay to open, picked or bleeding blemishes.
6. Underarm Freshening Mask
Bentonite clay is sometimes used as an occasional underarm mask because it can absorb moisture and oils from the skin.
Mix a little clay with water and spread a thin layer over clean underarms.
Leave for roughly 5 minutes, rinse thoroughly and dry the area.
This can be particularly useful before changing deodorant products or simply as part of an occasional shower routine.
Do not apply it immediately after shaving because freshly shaved skin may sting or become irritated.
7. Gentle Body Mask
Clay masks aren’t only for faces.
You can spread a thin layer of diluted bentonite clay over oily areas of the body such as the shoulders, upper back or chest.
Leave for approximately 5 to 10 minutes and rinse away in the shower.
Just remember that large quantities of clay can settle in plumbing.
Remove as much clay as possible before washing heavy amounts down the drain.
8. Rough Elbows and Knees
Elbows and knees can collect dry skin, sweat and everyday grime.
A short bentonite treatment can make a useful addition to your normal washing and moisturising routine.
Apply a small amount of clay paste, leave it for a few minutes, gently rinse it away and follow with moisturiser.
There is no need to scrub aggressively.
The goal is simply to clean the area without leaving your skin sore or irritated.
9. Hand-Cleansing Clay Treatment
After gardening or messy DIY jobs, dirt can seem permanently embedded around your hands and fingernails.
Try mixing a little bentonite clay with water and gently working it over your hands.
Rinse thoroughly before applying hand cream.
This is especially handy after jobs involving ordinary garden soil, but clay should not be relied upon to remove dangerous chemicals, pesticides, paint solvents or other hazardous materials.
Those exposures require proper washing procedures.
10. Pre-Shower Leg Mask
Your legs can benefit from an occasional clay treatment too.
Make a slightly runnier clay paste and spread a thin layer over your lower legs before showering.
Leave it for around five minutes and rinse.
Follow with moisturiser once you’re dry.
Avoid applying clay immediately before or after shaving. Freshly shaved skin can be much more sensitive.
If you’re interested in another budget-friendly home beauty method, our DIY Sugar Wax Recipe and Tutorial explains how traditional sugar waxing works.
11. Bentonite Clay Foot Mask
Feet are one of my favourite places for messy homemade treatments because you’re about to wash them anyway!
Mix enough bentonite clay and water to cover the soles and heels.
Apply a thin layer and leave it for 5 to 10 minutes before washing thoroughly.
Dry carefully, particularly between the toes, and apply moisturiser if your heels tend to become dry.
Never put clay over cracked, bleeding or infected skin.
12. Between-the-Toes and Sweaty-Foot Freshening
If your feet get sweaty, bentonite’s absorbent properties can make it useful as a short pre-shower treatment.
Apply a very thin clay-and-water mixture to intact skin, allow it to sit briefly and then rinse and dry your feet thoroughly.
Do not leave damp clay packed between your toes.
Persistent itching, peeling, soreness or unusual odour may indicate a condition such as athlete’s foot rather than simply sweaty feet, so don’t rely on clay to treat an infection.
13. Bentonite Clay Bath Soak
You can also use a small amount of bentonite clay in a bath for an occasional full-body soak.
Add around 1/4 to 1/2 cup of bentonite clay to warm bathwater and stir it around well.
Soak for around 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse your skin with clean water afterwards.
Because clay can settle, avoid using huge amounts and rinse the bathtub thoroughly once you’re finished.
If you have very dry or sensitive skin, start with a smaller amount and a shorter soak.
14. Back and Shoulder Oil-Absorbing Mask
The upper back and shoulders can become oily, particularly during hot weather or after exercise.
Mix bentonite clay with enough water to create a smooth paste, then apply a thin layer over the affected area.
Leave it for around 5 to 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly in the shower.
This can be a handy occasional treatment for removing excess surface oil and sweat.
Avoid using it over irritated, sunburned or broken skin.
15. Heel and Callus Softening Treatment
Dry heels and rough areas of the feet can benefit from a simple pre-soak clay treatment.
Mix bentonite clay with water to create a smooth paste and spread it over rough heels or hardened areas.
Leave it on for around 5 to 10 minutes, then rinse your feet and soak them briefly in warm water.
Afterwards, gently use a foot file if needed and finish with a thick moisturiser.
Do not use bentonite clay over deep cracks, bleeding skin or painful areas. Persistent or severe foot problems should be checked by a healthcare professional.
A Few Bentonite Clay Tips Worth Knowing
A little common sense makes homemade clay treatments much easier.
Start With a Small Amount
You rarely need several tablespoons of clay.
Start small because bentonite expands dramatically once water is added.
Don’t Let Every Mask Crack Completely Dry
That extremely tight, cracked-clay look you often see online isn’t necessary.
Rinsing while the mask is beginning to dry can be much more comfortable, especially on sensitive skin.
Moisturise Afterwards
Bentonite absorbs oil, which is precisely why many people like it.
Unfortunately, that also means excessive use can leave skin feeling dry.
A gentle moisturiser afterwards can help.
Patch Test First
Before covering your face or body, test a small amount on an inconspicuous patch of skin.
Stop using it if you experience burning, swelling, persistent redness or significant itching.
Buy From a Reputable Source
Clay is a naturally mined material, meaning its composition can vary depending on where and how it was sourced.
Choose a reputable product intended for cosmetic use and look for manufacturers that provide appropriate quality or contaminant testing.
Common Bentonite Clay Mistakes
Using It Every Day
More isn’t necessarily better.
Occasional use may suit many people better than repeatedly stripping oils from their skin or scalp.
Leaving It On Too Long
A mask doesn’t need to become rock hard before it has done anything.
If your skin begins to feel painfully tight, wash it off.
Applying It to Broken Skin
Avoid cuts, freshly shaved skin, open blemishes, burns or areas that appear infected.
Getting Clay in Your Eyes
Keep masks comfortably away from your eye area.
If clay enters your eyes, flush them thoroughly with clean water.
Breathing the Powder
Bentonite powder can become airborne very easily.
Scoop and mix gently and keep it away from children while preparing it.
Assuming “Natural” Means Risk-Free
Natural ingredients can still irritate skin.
Patch testing and sensible use are always worthwhile.
For even more inexpensive homemade ideas, see 20 Things Frugal People Make Instead Of Buy To Save Money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use bentonite clay every day?
For most homemade skin-care routines, there is little reason to use it daily. Because clay absorbs oils, frequent use may leave some people’s skin or scalp overly dry.
How long should you leave bentonite clay on your face?
Start with around 5 to 10 minutes. You don’t need to wait until the mask is completely cracked and hardened.
Can bentonite clay help oily skin?
Bentonite’s absorbent properties make it useful for removing excess surface oil, which is one of the main reasons it appears in cosmetic clay masks.
Can people with dry skin use bentonite clay?
Possibly, but use it cautiously. Try a small area first, shorten the application time and moisturise afterwards. Very dry or sensitive skin may simply prefer a gentler product.
Can bentonite clay be used on hair?
Yes, it is commonly used as an occasional clarifying scalp or hair treatment. Make the mixture relatively thin and rinse extremely thoroughly.
Should you drink bentonite clay?
This article recommends external cosmetic use only. Bentonite is a naturally mined material and product purity can vary. Don’t assume a clay sold for cosmetic use is suitable for swallowing.
Can children use bentonite clay?
Children’s skin can be more sensitive. Speak with a healthcare professional before using homemade clay preparations to treat rashes, irritation or other skin conditions in children.
Important Safety Note
Bentonite clay is a cosmetic ingredient, not a cure-all.
Although clay minerals have some interesting properties and are used in commercial skin-care products, homemade bentonite treatments shouldn’t be used to diagnose or treat infections, severe acne, eczema, wounds or other persistent skin problems.
Use a cosmetic product from a reputable source, avoid inhaling the powder, patch test before widespread use and stop immediately if irritation occurs.
Anyone with an ongoing skin or scalp condition should speak to a pharmacist, doctor or dermatologist rather than relying on a homemade remedy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something refreshingly simple about having one inexpensive ingredient that can be used in several different ways.
From an occasional scalp treatment and facial mask to underarm, body and foot care, bentonite clay can earn its place in a frugal bathroom cupboard without requiring complicated recipes or dozens of additional ingredients.
The secret is not using more of it.
Use small quantities, keep applications short, pay attention to how your skin reacts and remember that homemade treatments are best kept simple.
Sometimes the old-fashioned jar of clay really is enough.