Moroccan Clay | Rhassoul vs Red Clay Benefits | Skin & Hair


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Morocco
Morocco. Photo Credit: Walkerssk

Morocco is famous for many things, one of which is their varied assortment of clays. They come in different colors and are used mainly to treat and pamper the hair and skin. Two of these are Rhassoul and Red Clay. These have gotten famous in the past few years, but the truth is that they have been used for more than 1200 years. Let’s find out more about these Moroccan clays.

Similarities between Rhassoul and Red Clay

Before we talk about what makes these clays distinctly beneficial, let’s take a look at their similarities.

  • Both are original Moroccan clays
  • Both are great for detoxifying the skin and hair
  • Both have minerals that give the skin a healthier feel
  • Both have been used as major ingredients in soap making

Differences between Rhassoul and Red Clay

Now, let’s see how Rhassoul Clay (also called Ghassoul) and Red Clay are distinct from each other – this way you’ll see which one is perfect for your skin.

Rhassoul Clay

  • Rhassoul clay contains minerals like silica, sodium, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. These work in replenishing depleted minerals in the skin, so that you get a more even, plum, and firm complexion.
  • It is best for greasy, oily skin. Studies show that it helps improve skin elasticity, remove excess oils and dead skin cells, as well as unclog pores.
  • It does not stain clothing or skin and can create a bit of mess at best, depending on how much you use at a time.

Red Clay

  • Red Clay contains Dolomite, Silica, Ferric Oxide which make it absorbent. It is has proven to be great for cleansing skin.
  • It is perfect for mature or dry flaky skin because it improves the elasticity and texture of the skin.
  • It has a red color because of the high iron oxide content. It revitalizes the brightness of the skin.
  • It can help treat skin conditions like sunburns, psoriasis, eczema, and rosacea.
  • It can stain clothing or skin, that’s why it’s not recommended for blonde or light-colored hair.

Benefits of Rhassoul Clay

Dead Cell Exfoliation

acne treatment
Severe acne. Photo Credit: Sharon McCutcheon

Rhassoul clay contains a mildly abrasive consistency which is effective in scrubbing dead cells off the skin, leaving you with a soft and smooth feeling.

Pore Cleansing

As a soap, Rhassoul clay is very effective in cleansing clogged pores. The dirt, pollution, and grime are sucked out of the pores, leaving you with purified skin.

Oil Reduction

The main reason why many use Rhassoul clay is its efficiency in soaking up surface oils stuck deeply in your pores. With no excess sebum or oil, you prevent pimple and blackhead formation.

Soft Skin

Rhassoul clay is also helpful in softening rough and tough skin, such as on knees and elbows, as well as cracked heels.

Tightens Pores

Rhassoul clay can tighten large pores, shrinking them down, thanks to its natural astringent properties.

Product Recommendation: Aromine Rhassoul Clay Detoxifying and Rejuvenating Face Mask

Rhassoul natural clay mask is rich in magnesium, silica, potassium, and calcium, which all help to nourish your skin.

Skin Detoxification

This Moroccan clay draws dirt, sebum, wastes, and toxin out of the skin so that they stop clogging up. This is because of their detoxifying properties, due to the high levels of ion exchange.

Product Recommendation: Cocojojo Rhassoul Clay Natural Face Mask

It makes a great mask or exfoliating cleanser with an exfoliant added to it. Rhassoul clay is versatile and a great additive to make your own beauty products.

Irritation Soothing

You can use this clay for skin irritations like psoriasis and eczema. It helps mellow down inflammation in the skin. That’s why it’s often used as soothing masks for instant relief.

Product Recommendation: Poppy Austin Rhassoul Clay Hair & Facial Mask

You can expect a buttery soft, smooth and toned skin complexion, free from dryness, blemishes, blackheads and blocked pores; Your hair will feel light, manageable and conditioned, with curls defined and frizz controlled.

Benefits of Red Clay

Treating Acne, Pimples, Blackheads

Red clay is very delicate and can be used on sensitive skin types. It helps regulate excess fat, which makes it beneficial for the healing of acne, blackheads, and pimples. Those who form these skin problems due to excessive sweating can also benefit from red clay.

Product Recommendation: Addicted to Soap Moroccan Red Clay

These products do not contain any harmful chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, and petrochemicals that cheaper alternatives use that can irritate and damage your skin.

Cell Regeneration

This Moroccan clay helps cleanse the skin and promotes healthy cell regeneration. That’s why it’s a great body scrub and skin cleanser. Red clay masks work really well for cellulite formations and stretch marks. It’s a solution for oily hair, too, because of its ability to regulate excess oil in the hair roots.

Product Recommendation: Simply Shea Soap – Caribbean Coconut with Moroccan Red Clay Shea Butter Soap Simply Shea Red Clay Butter Soap

This soap is scented with Caribbean Coconut smells like fresh roasted coconut. Men and women love this scent.

Blood Circulation

Red clay is a natural ingredient that helps stimulate blood circulation. As a result, more oxygen is made available to muscles and tissues, relieving pain from injuries. Take note to use it only for non-congested areas, though, where no active inflammation is present.

Toxin Neutralizer

Moroccan Ghassoul Rhassoul Clay for Face
Dermomama Cleanser Detoxifier (Image: Amazon)

This Moroccan clay acts as an astringent, too. If you have scar formation, it can help stimulate healing. The impurities are drained out. Because red clay is highly absorbable, toxins can be quickly neutralized.

Product Recommendation: Dermomama Rhassoul Red Clay Facial & Body Cleanser Detoxifier

This clay draws oils from the skin which makes it a fantastic astringent for oily hair and skin. Furthermore, it stimulates skin circulation and because of its gentleness, it is suitable for even the most sensitive skin.

Anti Inflammatory Properties

Red clay is effective in relieving inflammation and the pain that comes with it, such as for varicose veins and osteoarthritis. It is effective to apply on cramps or sore muscles.

sun-dried clay
Cracked Clay, Moroccan Desert. Image Credit: Cinelina

Conclusion

If you are having skin problems, it’s time to try out these Moroccan clay options. They are great for sensitive skin types, too, as well as hair problems.

Morocco is known for its natural soaps as well: Moroccan Black Soap, Red Clay, and Argan Oil Soap.

Morocco and France have a close connection – check out our article about the rich history and best brands of French soaps today.

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