#92 Argital Argiltubo Green Clay Mask

A non-kaolin clay mask

Has clay mask gone out of fashion? They seem to be available from time to time but in recent years it’s almost difficult to get a sophisticated formulation in the market. They somehow felt retro and reminds me of when my mom put on a green face (green clay mask) on Sunday as a ritual. Somewhile ago, Tik Tok and Instagram went bonkers with Caudelie Instant Detox Mask making outrageous claims but then with time, the hype died off – it is a brilliant product, don’t get me wrong. 

Chemical exfoliants (AHAs and BHAs) gained so much popularity (and rightfully so) as we began to pivot away from the 90s’ apricot scrub. Along with that, clay masks seem to lose popularity. While both AHAs and clay masks generally intend to do the same thing – exfoliate the skin and arrive at more refined pores, they don’t work the same manner. Chemical exfoliants loosen the bonds between cells which help them to shed off easier; clay masks bind the impurities and remove with the washing. For best results, regular chemical exfoliants with occasional clay masks reveals smoother, brighter looking skin.

Argiltubo Green Clay Mask

My expectations were not high when I receive the product. The packaging is a little old-fashioned, if I’ve to be bluntly honest. I generally find clay masks sold in an organic shop is just ok and they often don’t live up to over-promise claims. But I’ll tell you why Argital Argiltubo Green Clay Mask is different from it’s peers.

Brand says: This 16 million years old active green clay is able to restore the equilibrium of your skin from within, making it balance and less oily.

The key word is restoring equilibrium of the skin and that was how my skin felt. Post mask, my complexion was soft and has a clean feeling. Serums tend to absorb much faster and make up sits better on the skin (I don’t wear a lot, but it does help). That is what precisely a face mask would deliver – weekly/pre-event boost to support an already sophisticated skincare routine. The inclusion of calendula extract acts as an antioxidant at the same time while Borage Seed Oil contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) which is nourishing and support with repair of dry and irritated skin.

The highlight ingredient is active green clay, Solum Fullonum as indicated on the incl. list. This is different from commonly used kaolin, which I find tend to dry out the skin faster and further. This mask somehow does not dry out completely even I’ve intentionally left it on for a considerably amount of time (definitely more than standard 5 to 15 minutes). It dries properly - and by that, I mean it didn’t suck out every ounce of moisture from the skin. It also didn’t sting, which makes it comfortable for skin with more sensitivity. Obviously use with caution if your skin is easily aggravated, more so as essential oils like lavender oil is present in the formulation.

How do I use it?

This product comes in a generous 250ml size which is meant for the face and body. Let’s be honest - Clay mask on my body as a homecare treatment is too posh and too much faff. I cannot be having a relaxing moment for 10 minutes and stress myself over cleaning the bathroom floor after that. I’ll likely leave it to the professional spas to do the work.

On the face – this is brilliant once a week (for my skin). If I am feeling particularly oily or congested, I can go up to 2x and 3x at a stretch, but rarely. I’ll layer a generous amount on slightly damp post cleanse skin and wash it off in the shower under cold water. It is not one of those terribly difficult to remove mask that only work with a flannel. I find wash off is good enough for me as pairing with a face cloth would over exfoliate my skin – unnecessary, as I am using resurfacing acids and retinoids which also exfoliate.

If you find clay masks tend to be over-drying, wash it off right after 5 to 10 minutes (depending on how thick you’ve layered). The trick is do not wait until the clay fully dries off and settle.

Fragranced?

Yes, of lavender water. I don’t fancy Lavender (personal preference), but I am not bothered with it. The scent doesn’t linger.

If you fancy some DIY, there’s also Argital Active Green Clay powder where you can simply add water and make a paste. This might be a wise option if you are worried that you won’t get through a 250ml tube especially when its preservative free.

*Transparency Disclosure:

Products were gifted by Klay Organic. Reviews are completely on my own, with no obligations from the brand to promote or provide any commentary out of my own testing.