French Argelitz Red Clay (Superfine Illite)

This lovely soft red superfine clay with its velvety texture is ideal for dry skin and can be used in cosmetics and bodycare products.  Its sourced from Hematite Iron Rock, is predominantly Illite, with Kaolinite, Montmorillionite and Calcite also present in its composition.

It is high in iron oxide and can be helpful for broken capillaries/spider veins and is ideal for flaky and acne prone skin - whether it's normal, dry or oily.  

As a pampering masque for a facial it is best suited to dry skin, where it will cleanse and pamper your skin, and after a several regular treatments it has been know to help create a luminous glow.

During the masque, the action of the clay helps to remove dead skin cells, reduce the appearance of enlarged pores, tone and humidify the skin

Simple Face Mask for Dry Skin

1. Blend 1 heaped teaspoon red clay with 2 teaspoons water in a glass or porcelain container.
2. Mix it into a smooth paste with water and apply a thin layer to a clean damp face.
3. Leave on for approximately 15 minutes, however do not let the mask dry out on your skin.  If it starts to dry out, mist it with the same type of water you used to make your mask. 
4. Rinse off with warm water.
5. Alternatives to water are floral waters, fruit and vegetable juices, herbal infusions, aloe vera and yoghurt. A small aomount of vegetable oil may be added to prevent the mask from drying out.

Essential oils ideal for dry skin are German Chamomile (blue chamomile), Everlasting, Geranium, Lavender and Neroli (orange blossom).

For a body mask, increase the quantities to cover the areas that the mask is being applied to..

I use it as an ingredient in my foundation formulations.  Can also be used in cosmetics for a matte finish.

Usage levels:

• 5 - 40% in masks
• Blend into the product when cool
• Homogenisation is recommended

Incompatibilities:

• Dissolves in highly acidic and highly alkaline solutions. 
• When buying in larger quantities, we recommend you use a plastic spoon to measure out and mix your clay in a glass or plastic bowl.

This item is constantly replenished as this is a key ingredient in our cosmetic bases. 

Note: Due to Covid-19 Freight interruptions, it is taking longer than normal to receive items at the moment.  Please feel welcome to contact me to check lead times before placing your order if you require larger quantities.