12/12/16

Bentonite Clay... For Your Hair?!

Why You Should Try This Now
Toxins. Toxins are damaging your hair every day. From coloring, perming, relaxing and even shampooing, the products we use on our hair take their toll. The everyday use of styling products, exposure to heat and UV rays can make hair tired and limp.  A good detox on your       hair and scalp can help alleviate most hair issues you experience. 
I love bentonite clay for its ability to act as a magnet, pulling toxins, dirt and impurities from your system. People have been using this healing clay for thousands of years in a variety of ways: face masks, moisturizers, creams and as a wonderful way to heal and restore your hair’s volume and luster. People head to the spa to enjoy the benefits of mud on their skin. It’s impact can be just as great on your hair.
This mask is simple and easy to make. If you haven’t used bentonite clay in the past, it can be found at grocery stores, natural food stores and online. It is very economically priced, just ensure you are purchasing from a high quality source.

You Will Need…
§  About 3/4 cup bentonite clay (its negative charge will attract the positive charged toxins lingering in your hair such as conditioners and styling products.)
§  1/2 cup apple cider vinegar (This will improve shine, and sooth itchy scalp from conditions such as dandruff and psoriasis.)
§  1 cup of brewed herbal tea or water (Green tea reduces shedding, black tea strengthens and nettle helps with dry scalp)

Optional: 10 drops of your favorite essential oil (I enjoy lavender)

You will also need a plastic bowl, plastic spoon, towel & plastic storage container/lid.

Please note: You should always use plastic or wood when working with bentonite clay.  The use of metal instruments makes the bentonite clay less effective.

How to Do It
To make up your bentonite clay hair mask, follow these steps:
1.      Brew (and strain) your herbal tea.
2.      With your plastic spoon, mix the tea and apple cider vinegar in your plastic bowl.
3.      Very slowly mix in bentonite clay. Add in only a spoonful at a time until thoroughly mixed.
4.      Mix until smooth (It should be easy to spread on hair and scalp, not too thick or runny.)
5.      Add in essential oils if desired.

Please note: Do not rinse too much bentonite clay down your drain at once. Rinse items slowly to avoid clumps and allow hot water to run for a few seconds after rinsing your hair out.

Application Tips

For the easiest clean-up, I suggest going into the shower or bath. You can apply the hair mask straight away, attend to your normal shower business, and rinse out your hair when finished.
To begin: 
1.      Starting at the roots, apply the mask to dampened hair.
2.      Work the clay through your hair until all strands are coated.
3.      Leave in for 5-20 minutes, but DO NOT allow the clay to fully dry. It will become more difficult to wash out.
4.      Rinse with warm water and style as usual.

I have been doing this twice a week and have seen miracle happen in my hair. My hair is manageable, without any frizz or dullness.  I've seen increased volume, shine and overall luster.

Storage
You can store the mixture for about a week effectively. (If stored longer, the bentonite begins to lose its magic.) Always keep it in an airtight, PLASTIC container.  
Did It Work For You?
We want to know how it has worked for you! Or do you have a variation on this recipe? Let us know in the comments section!