What comes to your mind when you think of someone applying clay to their hair? A messy sticky business, right? Yet, around the world today, many naturals now incorporate Bentonite clay into their hair care routine. In fact, one can trace the use of Bentonite clay for natural hair back to pre-colonial Africa. So, should you be using Bentonite clay for your natural hair? If yes, what benefits does the clay give to it? Find out the answers as you continue reading this article.
Definition of Bentonite Clay
Bentonite clay is a type of natural swelling clay, known for its ability to absorb toxins. Many people use it to cleanse their skin of toxins and as stated already, include it in their hair care routine. You may also find this clay as an ingredient in many natural hair products.
Why Should You Use Bentonite Clay For Natural Hair?
There are many benefits to using Bentonite clay for your natural hair and they include:
1. It Helps Cleanse Your Hair and Scalp
With regular use, products can leave plenty of residue on your scalp and hair. This then clogs the pores of your scalp, along with dirt and sweat. If left like this for a long period, it can result in itching, smelly scalp and hair, among other issues.
Bentonite clay can help cleanse your hair and scalp of product build-ups and open clogged pores. Because it has a fine powder texture, it will help to gently exfoliate your scalp.
2. It Helps To Strengthen and Revive Your Hair Strands
Bentonite clay contains rich and safe minerals such as potassium, calcium and magnesium. When they come in contact with dull, limp, greasy hair, they can help to cleanse the hair of its toxins, thus restoring and improving the hair’s shine.
3. They Leave The Hair Moisturized
Hair that is not retaining moisture can be hard to work with. Not only will you find it painful to comb or style, but your hair will also experience breakage, split ends and other forms of hair damage.
Since Bentonite clay helps to cleanse the hair and scalp of toxins, the hair then becomes free to absorb and retain moisture. Bentonite clay can also help to seal the moisture from hair products into your hair.
When your hair is moisturized, it is more manageable and less prone to hair damage of any sort.
4. It Gives Your Hair Lasting Curl Definition
Due to its ability to draw out dirt and toxins from hair, Bentonite clay can help you get even defined curly strands.
How To Make And Use A Bentonite Clay Mask For Natural Hair
To make the mask, you will need the following:
- Apple cider vinegar (ACV)
- Distilled water
- Glass bowl
- A tablespoon
- Wooden or plastic spoon
- Bentonite clay
Start by mixing three tablespoons of Bentonite clay in the glass bowl of distilled water. Next, pour a moderate amount of apple cider vinegar and hair oil into the same bowl. Now, stir the mix until it is smooth. After this, wet your hair with warm water and put it In sections. Then apply the Bentonite clay mask all over your hair from base to end. Leave to sit for 15 – 30 minutes and then rinse off thoroughly. Finally, deep condition your hair.
If you still need further direction on how to make and use the Bentonite clay mask, then watch this video:
Credit: Chizi Duru
How often can you do a Bentonite clay mask?
If you have dry or damaged hair, you can do this once a week. However, for healthy hair, once or twice a month is fine.
