The Benefits of Clay in Skincare

Clay has many benefits for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It absorbs excess oil while delivering minerals to the skin and improving its tone and texture. It’s also great for unclogging pores and soothing inflammation.

Why you should consider adding clay to your skincare

From its pore-clarifying effects to its deep cleansing properties, discover six reasons your skin will love clay.

It absorbs excess oil and reduces shine

Stress and hot weather can cause overactive sebaceous glands, resulting in oily skin and clogged pores. Unlike conventional products for oily and acne-prone skin, which often contain drying chemicals that can disrupt the skin's natural balance, clay acts as a natural sponge. It absorbs excess oil and impurities gently, helping to clear and mattify the skin without causing further imbalances.

It may improve skin tone and texture

Regular use of clay-based products can gently exfoliate the skin, removing dead cells and promoting cell turnover. This leads to a brighter and smoother complexion, making it an ideal ingredient for those looking to achieve a healthy glow. This is an especially good option for those with sensitive skin who don't respond well to chemical exfoliants and retinoids, serving to maintain the skin barrier rather than deplete it.

It helps unclog pores

When applied to the skin, clay draws out impurities and toxins embedded within the pores. This is particularly beneficial for those with oily or acne-prone skin, as clogged pores can lead to breakouts and blackheads. As the mask dries, it tightens on the skin, helping to extract dirt, dead skin cells, and sebum that may be trapped in the pores. This thorough cleansing process minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores and helps maintain cleaner and clearer pores with regular application.

It soothes inflammation

Clay's soothing properties can help calm inflamed skin and reduce redness, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. The minerals in clay have anti-inflammatory effects that can alleviate irritation and promote a more even-toned complexion.

Umbrian clay – in a fresh light

There is only one place in the world where Umbrian clay can be found naturally: a small town in Italy named Nocera Umbra, located in the central region of Umbria. The discovery of this ultra-fine clay dates back to the 6th Century, and it has been used for centuries by doctors and scientists to treat skin rashes, acne, insect bites, and more.

Hundreds of years later, this same clay was rediscovered by a close friend of our founders at a small herbal shop in Italy. She found that after a few weeks of daily use, her treatment-resistant acne underwent miraculous healing.

Today, you’ll find this same Umbrian clay in fresh products, where its high mineral content and detoxifying effects work to balance, purify, and clarify your complexion.

As members of Ethical BioTrade (UEBT), we work to sustainably source the clay from local suppliers—discover more about this ingredient’s origins in our Umbrian Clay Sourcing Story.

Umbrian Clay Face Mask

The fresh Umbrian Clay Pore-Purifying Face Mask deeply cleanses the skin while minimizing the appearance of pores and reducing shine. This 3-in-1 treatment can be used as a detoxifying face mask, deep cleansing facial wash, or spot treatment. The mineral-rich formula purifies the skin without over-drying it, making it ideal for all skin types.

Umbrian Clay Treatment Bar

Extend the purifying benefits of Umbrian Clay to your body. Now available in a convenient bar formula, the Umbrian Clay Purifying Treatment Bar deeply cleanses your skin and can be used on both face and body to extract toxins, treat imperfections, and soothe. To use, moisten the bar then apply directly to skin. Allow to dry, or leave on for five minutes for a deeper treatment, then rinse. Store the bar in a dry place after use, as the clay will dissolve in water.

Nurture your skin with nature

Inspired by nature and perfected by science, fresh goes above and beyond to research and source the most effective natural skincare ingredients. Shop our full range to find the best match for your skin.