Clay Mask Formula for Acne-Prone, Oily, Sensitive Skin with Clogged Pores

Question

I would like a clay mask formula that addresses acne, clogged pores, and oiliness, suitable for sensitive skin. I previously discussed using ingredients like Encapsulated Salicylic Acid (Powder, Timed-Release), Safe-B3, Zinc PCA, Licorice Extract, Vitamin B5, Bisabolol, Beta Glucan, and Second Skin. Could you provide a sample formulation guideline for a clay mask using these types of ingredients, considering the goal is to dissolve clogged pores, reduce oil, and soothe sensitive skin, acknowledging that a cream or gel base might offer better efficacy but I prefer a clay mask?

MySkinRecipes Expert · Accepted Answer

Subject: Clay Mask Formula for Acne-Prone, Oily, Sensitive Skin with Clogged Pores

Based on your request for a clay mask formula targeting acne, clogged pores, oiliness, and sensitivity, and considering the previous discussion, here is a sample formulation guideline.

Please note that the staff previously suggested that a cream or gel base might offer better efficacy for delivering the active ingredients compared to a clay mask. However, we can still formulate a beneficial clay mask using suitable ingredients.

Here are some key ingredients recommended for your concerns:

For Clogged Pores:
- Encapsulated Salicylic Acid (Powder, Timed-Release): Recommended at 4% for gentle exfoliation and dissolving clogged pores.
For Oil Control:
- Safe-B3 (Niacinamide)
- Zinc PCA
- Licorice Extract (also helps soothe)
For Skin Strengthening and Soothing:
- Vitamin B5 (Panthenol)
- Bisabolol
- Other soothing ingredients like Beta Glucan or Second Skin can also be considered.

Sample Clay Mask Formulation Guideline:

This is a basic guideline, and percentages may need adjustment based on the specific ingredients used and desired mask consistency.

Water Phase:
- Water or Hydrosol (e.g., Chamomile or Green Tea Hydrosol): 40-50%
- Xanthan Gum (Thickener): 0.2-0.5% (Disperse in water phase)
- Vitamin B5, Bisabolol (Water-soluble soothing agents): 1-2% total
Clay Phase:
- Kaolin Clay (or a blend of clays like Bentonite): 30-40%
Active Phase (add after hydrating clay):
- Encapsulated Salicylic Acid (Powder): 4%
- Safe-B3: 3-5%
- Zinc PCA: 0.5-1%
- Licorice Extract: 1-3%
Preservative:
- Suitable broad-spectrum preservative: 0.5-1% (check supplier recommendations)

Instructions:

Hydrate the clay with the water phase containing the thickener and water-soluble actives. Mix well until smooth.
Slowly incorporate the powder active ingredients (Encapsulated Salicylic Acid, Safe-B3, Zinc PCA, Licorice Extract). Mix thoroughly.
Add the preservative and mix again.
Always perform a patch test before applying to the entire face.

This formula combines ingredients to help absorb excess oil, gently exfoliate clogged pores, reduce inflammation, and soothe sensitive skin. Remember to start with lower percentages of actives if your skin is very sensitive and gradually increase if needed and tolerated.