Are you looking for a DIY hair clay recipe for curly hair? In this post, we’ll go over the key benefits of bentonite clay for frizzy hair, and step-by-step instructions on how to make your own hair mask.
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Do you relate to this? Your curls are lacking definition, looking frizzy and just don’t seem to keep their shape after wash day.
Whether it’s lifeless, undefined looking curls, a flaky scalp, or weak strands, these are problems none of us curly girls want to deal with!
If you’re suffering with any of these issues, bentonite clay may be the solution you’re looking for. It’s an all-natural substance that can help make your hair look and feel healthier and smoother after just one use.
Bentonite clay is a great way to cleanse and purify your hair, and enhance your hair’s texture. You can use it alongside your regular hair care products for a boost in hair health.
If you like to make your own hair products, this one’s for you. Keep reading to find out how to make a DIY hair clay mask, and the benefits of including it in your natural hair routine.
DIY Hair Clay Mask Benefits
The recipe we are covering today uses bentonite clay, which is made from naturally occurring volcanic ash, and you have probably heard about it because it’s commonly used in face masks.
Bentonite clay is rich in minerals such as calcium, iron and silica. It is known for its ability to bind to and draw out toxins and impurities.
It is a natural substance that has been used as a healing and beauty remedy for thousands of years for things like skincare, healing infections, and stomach issues.
Bentonite clay also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, so when it’s used topically on your scalp it can help heal and prevent scalp issues.
So, what else does bentonite clay do to your hair? It:
- Helps to define the curls
- Smooths the hair strands, reducing frizz and increasing shine
- Strengthens the hair, preventing breakage
- Removes toxins
- Reduces dandruff and flakes
- Relieves an itchy scalp
- Absorbs dirt and excess oil, while gently cleansing the hair and scalp (to learn how to make a natural cleanser for hair, check out this post!)
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Bentonite Clay Mask Instructions
This recipe uses only a few ingredients, and is very easy to make. We will be making it with apple cider vinegar as the main liquid because it is acidic and helps to balance the high pH of bentonite clay.
Apple cider vinegar also helps to improve scalp health, gently cleanses the scalp, and contributes to shinier hair.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup bentonite clay
- 1/2 cup raw apple cider vinegar
- 2-6 tablespoons of water
- Bowl
- Non-metal spoon/utensil (avoid using metal with clay)
- Optional: spray bottle of water
BONUS TIP: Add a a few drops of essential oils for a boost to your hair growth and scalp health! Here are some great ones you can use, and spearmint oil is also amazing for scalp health.
NOTE: If you have longer or thick hair, you may want to increase the ratios of each ingredient.
Directions
- In the bowl, mix the bentonite clay and apple cider vinegar until it is completely combined with no clumps
- Add water 1 tablespoon at a time until the mixture is a yogurt-like consistency
- Dampen the hair with the spray water bottle (this is optional, as some people find it easier to apply on dry hair)
- On detangled hair, apply the mask to the hair in sections all the way from root to tip
- Secure the hair in a bun, and cover with a plastic cap (to prevent it from drying out, as it will be more difficult to remove if you let it dry)
- Leave on for 15 minutes
- Rinse out thoroughly with warm water, and condition
If you are using this mask for the first time, be sure to do a patch test to make sure you don’t have any allergies.
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DIY Hair Clay FAQ’s
1. Can you make the bentonite clay hair mask without apple cider vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar is an important part of the hair treatment because it provides a lot of benefits for the hair and scalp, and helps get rid of scalp flakes and itchiness.
But if you don’t have any apple cider vinegar and want to mix the clay with only water, you can. Water may make it a little more difficult to mix the mask, but it can be done!
2. How often should you use a clay mask on your hair?
You can start by using this mask every 2-4 weeks. If you have very oily hair, you may benefit from using it more often.
Take note of how your hair looks and feels when using it and adjust accordingly.
3. Does clay change your hair texture?
Using this treatment can make your hair feel smoother and decrease the frizz.
It can also make your curls feel bouncier, softer and look much more defined! It will enhance your natural hair texture.
4. Does bentonite clay dry out hair?
Since the clay removes excess oil from your hair and scalp, using this mask can feel a little drying if used frequently without replenishing the moisture in your hair.
This can happen especially for those who naturally have very dry hair, or if you leave the mask on too long or use it too often.
5. How do you moisturize your hair after a clay mask?
Be sure to balance out your clay hair masks with deep moisturizing treatments such as shea butter DIY masks or store bought deep conditioners.
Deep conditioning regularly will keep your hair feeling moisturized, soft, and shiny.
6. Do you shampoo after a clay mask?
Bentonite clay masks are cleansing for the hair and scalp, so there is no need to shampoo afterward.
It is more gentle on the hair than a regular clarifying shampoo though.
So if your hair has excessive product buildup then shampoo before using the mask and apply the mixture to damp hair.
A bentonite clay homemade hair mask can work wonders for your hair. If you are looking for a natural DIY hair care remedy for undefined curls or frizzy hair, give it a try!
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