Bentonite Clay for Natural Hair is Trending

When it comes to locking down the perfect natural hair care routine, there are many ways to show your strands some love. With deep conditioners, the LCO method, hot oil treatments, and more, there are plenty of options to help maintain healthy-looking strands. And while you may rely on various hair care products to suit your needs, bentonite clay for hair is the latest trending ingredient. Known to provide cleansing benefits for natural hair, it’s no surprise that bentonite clay hair masks have been making waves in the beauty world. And if you’re ready to hop on the bentonite clay bandwagon, we’ve got you covered! Keep reading for everything you need to know about bentonite clay for hair, plus get tips for adding clay to your routine.

WHAT IS BENTONITE CLAY?

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), bentonite clay is an absorbent aluminum phyllosilicate clay, which is formed from volcanic ash. Known as a detoxifying agent, bentonite clay absorbs negatively charged toxins. Commonly used in Iran and other areas around the world, when mixed with water, it turns into a paste that, according to the NCBI, works to cleanse and soften the hair. In fact, bentonite clay has been used and eaten from ancient times until now and is believed to have therapeutic benefits.

CAN BENTONITE CLAY BE USED ON HAIR?

Now that you know what bentonite clay is, you may be wondering how you can add it to your hair care routine. One of the easiest ways to do so is to use a bentonite clay formulated hair mask or rinse. After the wash process, part your hair section by section and apply your bentonite clay hair product of choice. Leave on for the directed amount of time, rinse, and style as desired. You can even use certain bentonite clay masks as a pre-poo treatment to give strands some extra TLC.

DO YOU WASH YOUR HAIR BEFORE USING BENTONITE CLAY?

It’s common to hear that you should wash your hair before using bentonite clay—or any hair mask for that matter. But is that what’s best? If you’re not too sure what to do, it’s time to listen up. When using any product, the key to getting the results you’re looking for is to follow the instructions on the packaging. In some cases that will mean washing hair before and after use, while others will only require one wash.

Keep in mind, everyone has different hair care needs. So, you may find that bentonite clay works better as a mask, and your BFF may love it as a pre-poo. Just do what works best for you and your strands!

CAN YOU USE BENTONITE CLAY ON COLOR-TREATED HAIR?

Since there is limited research on whether or not bentonite clay should be used on color-treated hair, the answer to this question relies on what you’re comfortable trying. We already know that bentonite clay absorbs negatively charged ions, so it may not be the best idea to mix with your new hair color. However, if you’re determined to test and see if a bentonite clay hair mask is right for your colored strands, try using it on an inconspicuous colored strand first. If all is well, you should be good to go. You can also look out for bentonite clay products that are specifically formulated for color-treated strands, although they may be harder to come by.

HOW OFTEN CAN YOU USE BENTONITE CLAY ON YOUR HAIR?

Chances are, you’re probably ready to see bentonite clay work its magic—and we don’t blame you! However, when it comes to using bentonite clay on your mane, it’s not something you should use every day. Like most hair masks, it’s typically recommended to use bentonite clay for hair about once a week. Be sure to pay attention to your strands. Some hair types can handle a bentonite clay mask once a week, while for others, it will be once or twice a month. However, it will all depend on the usage instructions recommended for the product you're using.

HOW TO ADD BENTONITE CLAY TO YOUR NATURAL HAIR ROUTINE

Follow our step-by-step routine below to learn how to add this trending ingredient to your routine.

STEP #1: APPLY YOUR BENTONITE CLAY MASK AS A PRE-POO

As we mentioned above, bentonite clay is beloved for its detoxifying properties, and this makes it a great way to start off your hair care routine. Part your hair section by section and apply a bentonite clay mask to your strands. Cover your hair with a plastic cap and leave on for the specified amount of time. Rinse and you’re ready for the next step.

STEP #2: USE A NOURISHING HAIR CARE SYSTEM

Every natural hair care routine requires a nourishing hair care system. Follow up with the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Moisture Shampoo and L’Oréal Paris EverPure Moisture Conditioner. This sulfate-free formula works to replenish dry strands, leaving you with soft and luminous hair.

STEP #3: GRAB A LEAVE-IN CONDITIONER

Once your hair is washed, it’s time to lock your strands with moisture. And that’s where the L’Oréal Paris EverStrong Break Proof Lotion comes in handy. This lightweight leave-in conditioner strengthens fragile hair and protects hair from UV rays and heat styling. Part your hair into sections, re-wet your hair if dry, and apply the leave-in conditioner evenly throughout your mane. Now you can style your hair as desired.

Next up: In the mood for more natural hair care tips? Head on over to our article, 11 Natural Hair Mistakes You Don’t Want to Make, to expand your knowledge.