I am always looking for techniques and products to set my natural hair journey awwfff ??! I am not much a DIY-er, but I do like to switch things up now and then. During my endless research on Google and YouTube, I came across using the Aztec healing clay mask for natural hair.
Huh??! I thought to myself. Clay in hair?? Wouldn’t it turn hard and damage my already dry, and unpoppable curls?! Will this clog my scalp? Is it safe to use ??!
All of these questions swarmed in my brain as I contemplated whether I should try it out. Also, what works for someone else’s regimen might not necessarily work in mine. I was so scared at first, but I decided to go ahead and do it. I am so glad that I did!
First, a little Background Info
So, what exactly is the Aztec healing clay mask all about? Turns out it has many uses and benefits! It is a bentonite powder that can be mixed with apple cider vinegar, water, and or an oil of choice – either essential or a carrier oil.
Aztec Healing Clay is widely known to be used on the face and body, but who knew that it can be applied to natural hair?! This clay mask is a master in detoxification.
It deeply cleanses the face, body, and hair – ridding deep blackheads, dead skin cells, bacteria, product buildup on the scalp, and more!
The Application Process
It takes about 5-10 minutes to make a batch of clay. The bentonite powder should be mixed in a plastic or glass mixing bowl along with a beauty tool such as a plastic facial mask mixing spatula or even a plastic spoon. It will need to be mixed well in order to apply as smoothly as possible.
DO NOT use metal when mixing! If a metal bowl or spoon is used during the mixing process, the mask will not be as effective.
It will negatively impact the clay and its detoxifying power. Also, remove any jewelry such as rings and earrings in case they cause an adverse effect on the mask. Use one part water and/or apple cider vinegar and start mixing!
For standard measurements, use 1/2 cup of the bentonite powder and add equal parts of apple cider vinegar and/ or water (about 1/4 cup of each). You do not have to use both. I have tried water only. Add more or less clay or liquid in your mixture, it depends on the density of your hair.
The Demonstration
I have recorded myself in action using the mask. Check it out below!
Progress!
As I mentioned in the video, my hair was stretched and lacked curl definition. I was not even sure if my curls would come back. I am new to YouTube and I did try a clay mask off camera beforehand and the results were GOD AWFUL. My hair was hard and undefined! Also, I believe that the technique I attempted to apply the mask was triggles ?.
This time, I applied the mask unapologetically and without fear! Yes, I am scared to try different products and certain methods on my hair in fear of causing damage. I am scared of henna, the Aphogee 2-Step Protein Treatment, too much heat to name a few.
I have my reasons! I am low porosity, which means that my hair has a hard time absorbing moisture and the cuticles are tightly closed. A lot of naturals with lo-po hair also tend to need less protein or are even sensitive to it. My regimen mainly focuses on moisture. So I feel that henna and the two-step treatment may be too protein enriched for my grade of hair.
Let’s get back on topic before I get way out in left field.
The Takeaway
The bentonite clay mask did its thang with restoring my curls! The application process is messy, but the results were just ?.
I would definitely apply to my hair again; once a month would be a great starting point to keep my definition in check. Next time, I will add Apple Cider Vinegar and a moisturizing oil such as Argan or Grapeseed.
As you can see, I was very happy with the results. The clay mask gets an A+ in my book ??.
How do you keep your curls on point? Would you give this mask a try? As always, your questions and comments are more than welcome so feel free to share below!