Bentonite Clay Hair Mask & Face Mask Benefits for Oily Skin

Struggling with dry curls or oily skin? A bentonite clay mask might be your new favorite detox. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to use it for both hair and face with easy DIY steps.

Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost.

I recently revisited this clay mask routine after a two-year postpartum hiatus. My curls had loosened during pregnancy, but I could tell they were starting to revert—and this mask helped restore their definition.

The Benefits of Bentonite Clay Hair Mask for Curly Hair & Oily Skin

Bentonite clay is a powerful natural detoxifier that draws out dirt, oil, and product buildup. Whether you’re dealing with oily skin or trying to revive dry, frizzy curls, a bentonite clay mask can help reset your routine and restore balance.

Looking for an easy way to clean your scalp deeply or reduce shine on your face? These clay masks are known to:

• Eliminate frizz and enhance curl definition
• Remove toxins and product buildup
• Balance moisture levels for hair and skin

Ready to try it yourself? Below, you’ll find simple DIY clay mask recipes for your hair and face, along with tips to achieve the best results from your bentonite clay treatment.

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Why Bentonite Clay Hair Masks Help Define Natural Curls

Bentonite clay is renowned for its ability to remove impurities, making it a powerful natural detoxifier for your scalp and curls. It’s especially helpful for curly, coily, and wavy hair types that struggle with buildup, frizz, or moisture retention.

Top Benefits for Hair:

• Enhances curl definition by removing product and oil buildup
• Restores moisture balance to dry, frizzy strands
• Detoxifies the scalp by reducing dandruff and excess oil
• Supports healthy hair growth by improving scalp circulation

Best for: Curly, coily, or wavy hair textures that need more hydration and curl definition

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Postpartum Curl Reset with Bentonite Clay

My Postpartum Curl Reset Experience

During pregnancy, my curl pattern loosened and became softer. Now, two years postpartum, I’ve noticed my curls are gradually returning to their original texture — but they still needed a boost. That’s when I turned to a bentonite clay hair mask for a full detox and curl reset.

Since my hair is currently ear-length in the front and shoulder-length in the back, I scaled down the product mix

• 1.5 tbsp bentonite clay
• 1–1.5 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• A few drops of olive oil (optional)

I mixed everything into a creamy paste and applied it to clean, damp hair. After rinsing, I followed up with the Obliphica Seaberry Hair Mask to restore moisture — an essential step after using bentonite clay on natural hair.

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How to Prepare a Hair Mask with Bentonite Clay

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• ½ cup Bentonite clay
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon castor oil (or oil of your choice)
• 6 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 3 tablespoons water

Tools:

• Glass, wooden, or plastic bowl (avoid metal, as it deactivates the clay)
• Wooden or plastic spoon

Short Hair Version:
If your hair is shoulder-length or shorter, you can reduce the recipe to:
• 1.5 tablespoons bentonite clay
• 1 to 1.5 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 3–4 drops of olive or argan oil (optional)

Mix until smooth and creamy. This version is perfect for a quick curl reset without wasting product!

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How to Use a Bentonite Clay Hair Mask for Natural Curls

1. Mix Your Mask:

• In a non-metallic bowl, mix Bentonite clay with coconut & castor oil
• Add apple cider vinegar—it will start foaming.
• Gradually add water, stirring until you get a smooth, creamy consistency.

I recommend starting with freshly shampooed hair so the mask can work more effectively. Applying it on clean, damp hair helps the clay absorb buildup better and enhances your curl definition.

2. Apply the Mask:

• Start with damp or dry hair.
• Section your hair for even application.
• Coat each section thoroughly from roots to ends.

3. Let It Work:

• Leave the mask on for about 30 minutes.
• For deeper penetration, use a hooded dryer or hair steamer.

4. Rinse & Condition:

• Gently massage your scalp as you rinse out the mask.
• Follow up with a deep conditioner to restore hydration.

5. Style as Usual:

• Keep products light to let your natural curls shine.

Pro Tip: Use this treatment whenever your curls feel weighed down or lack definition, but don’t wait until they’re completely out of shape.

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DIY Clay Mask for Oily Skin and Face Detox

Bentonite clay isn’t just for hair—it’s a fantastic skin detoxifier!

Top Benefits for Skin:

• Unclogs pores and removes blackheads
• Absorbs excess oil, reducing acne breakouts
• Gently exfoliates, leaving skin refreshed
• Tightens and tones for a firmer complexion

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How to Make a Bentonite Clay Face Mask

Ingredients:

• 1½ tablespoons Bentonite clay
• 1½ tablespoons apple cider vinegar (balances pH & cleanses)
• 1 tablespoon activated charcoal (optional for extra detoxifying power)

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How to Apply the Face Mask

1. Mix the Ingredients: Combine clay, vinegar, and charcoal in a non-metallic bowl. Stir until you get a smooth paste.
2. Apply evenly: Use clean fingers or a brush to spread a thin layer over your face. Avoid the eye area.
3. Let It Dry:
   • Oily skin? Leave it on for 15-20 minutes.
   • Sensitive skin? Leave it on for 10 minutes.
4. Rinse Gently: Use warm water or a damp washcloth to remove the mask.
5. Follow Up with Skincare: Apply a hydrating toner and light moisturizer to calm your skin.

Note: Some redness is normal after use—this means the mask is working!

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Key Tips for Success

• Adjust the recipe to suit your hair or skin’s needs.
• Use only glass, plastic, or wooden utensils—metal can deactivate the clay.
• Buy Bentonite clay at Whole Foods, Walmart, or online for around $15.
• Watch tutorials for first-time application guidance.

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Bentonite Clay Mask FAQs for Hair and Skin

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Have You Tried Bentonite Clay Masks?

Bentonite clay masks are a natural, effective way to refresh your curls and detoxify your skin. Whether you’re battling frizz or acne, this versatile treatment covers you!

Have you tried Bentonite clay masks before? Share your experience in the comments!

Check out my latest article, Product Junkie Problems: How Expired Hair & Makeup Products Waste Your Money, where I dive into the habits that lead to product overload and how to shop smarter for your curly hair.

I recently shared my complete postpartum curl reset using this clay mask in my first YouTube video! If you’re navigating postpartum hair changes or want to detox your curls, watch the whole routine here and subscribe for more tips!

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