Sea clay is a classic ingredient for facial masks. It originates from mud laid under the sea millions of years ago and has a grayish green color. Sea clay has great absorption properties, which makes it perfect for oily skin. This Sea Clay Face Mask was specifically formulated for oily skin with a combination of kaolin clay and sea clay. Tea tree essential oil gives the mask a fresh scent.
Because this mask contains plenty of clay, it has a nice thick texture. It also dries on the skin after about 10-15 minutes, giving you that classic “dry” clay mask feeling. You know the one! If you’d like to tweak this recipe for more normal or combination skin, you can decrease the amount of sea clay to 1-2 ounces. If you decrease the amount of clay, it may take a little longer to dry on the skin.
If you have extremely sensitive skin, tea tree essential oil sitting on the skin for 10-15 minutes could be a little irritating. If you’re concerned, you can omit it completely from the recipe. You can also switch out the extract for another if you prefer.
A few notes about recipe substitutions and changes:
- Polawax Emulsifying Wax is a highly reliable and strong emulsifier. It could be substituted for the generic version, Emulsifying Wax, if you prefer, although this recipe was not tested with Emulsifying Wax. Due to the clay in the recipe, we splurged and used Polawax Emulsifying Wax to avoid any chance of separation.
- This recipe calls for avocado and hazelnut oil. Other oils can be used instead if you prefer; we recommend staying with liquid oils that absorb easily into the skin. Changing the total amount of oil in the recipe will change the overall texture of the mask.
- Because this recipe is essentially a lotion and contains a large amount of water, a preservative is necessary to avoid mold and bacteria growth. We chose Optiphen, but other water soluble preservatives will work. Learn more about preservatives here.
- Decrease the total amount of clay if you want it to be better suited for dry skin. Decreasing the amount of clay may create a thinner product.
- If you prefer to use different clays, feel free to swap them. Clays have different absorbing properties, which will affect how it feels on the skin. Learn which clay is right for your skin.
- If you have very sensitive skin, fragrance and essential oils can be irritating. Omit from the recipe if you prefer.
- Ginseng extract can be substituted with a different extract if you prefer.
What You’ll Need:
Four Short 8 oz. Bail Jars
21.4 oz. Distilled Water
1 oz. Hazelnut Oil
1.3 oz. Avocado Oil
1 oz. Polawax Emulsifying Wax
0.8 oz. BTMS-50 Conditioning Emulsifier
4 oz. Kaolin Clay
4 oz. Sea Clay
2 mL Tea Tree Essential Oil
0.5 oz. Ginseng Extract
0.2 oz Optiphen
Clay Mask Template – Free Downloadable PDF
Click here to add everything you need for this project to your Bramble Berry shopping cart!
Find the supplies you need for this project below
EQUIPMENT PREP: Disinfect your utensils by dipping them in a 5% bleach water solution and allowing to dry. This includes mixing containers, your stick blender, and any spoons or spatulas that may come in contact with your mask. Your products must be as free of germs, bacteria, and microbes as possible. To be safe, bleach water all your utensils.
CLAY PREP: In a small container, measure 4 ounces of kaolin clay and 4 ounce of sea clay. You can add them to the same container.
ONE: In a heat-safe container, combine the avocado oil, hazelnut oil, BTMS-50 and Polawax. Heat the container in the microwave using 30-60 second bursts until the waxes have fully melted. Be careful when removing the container, as it will be quite hot. Set aside.
TWO: In a separate large container, heat the distilled water in the microwave (or on the stove top) until it reaches about 160-170 ° F. Once the water reaches the correct temperature, some of it may evaporate. Remeasure and add more distilled water if necessary until you have 21.4 ounces of hot water.
THREE: Check the temperatures of both containers. Each container should be about 160° -180° F. If the oil and wax has cooled, place back into the microwave until fully melted. Place the stick blender into the water, and burp it to help get rid of bubbles. Pour the oil and wax mixture into the water and use a spatula to make sure every little bit is added. Begin pulsing the stick blender. The mixture will take on a “milky” appearance once the water, oil and waxes have begun to emulsify. Continue to pulse and stir for about a minute.
FOUR: Begin adding heaping spoonfuls of the kaolin clay and sea clay and pulsing the stick blender until combined. Continue adding the clay to the mixture and blending in small amounts until all the clay is added.
FIVE: Continue stick blending for about one to two minutes. Use a spatula to scrape down any clay that may be on the sides of the bowl. Check the temperature of the mixture. Once the mixture is about 130-140°F, add the Optiphen, tea tree essential oil and ginseng extract. Stick blend (don’t forget to burp the stick blender!) the ingredients in until fully mixed.
SIX: Continue to stick blend for several more minutes, just to make sure the ingredients are fully emulsified.
SEVEN: Pour the mixture into the bail jars. If you find you have a lot of bubbles on the top, you can spritz the top of the containers with 99% isopropyl alcohol to help get rid of some of them. Allow the containers to cool for several hours with the lid open to avoid condensation. Once fully cooled, the mixture will be a thick, lotion-like texture.
To use, apply a medium layer to dry, clean skin. Avoid the immediate eye area. Allow the mask to sit on the skin for about 10-15 minutes; after this time, it will begin to dry. Use warm water to rinse off. There is no need to wash the skin after, but you can if you prefer.
- Four Short 8 oz. Bail Jars
- 21.4 oz. Distilled Water
- 1 oz. Hazelnut Oil
- 1.3 oz. Avocado Oil
- 1 oz. Polawax Emulsifying Wax
- 0.8 oz. BTMS-50 Conditioning Emulsifier
- 4 oz. Kaolin Clay
- 4 oz. Sea Clay
- 2 mL Tea Tree Essential Oil
- 0.5 oz. Ginseng Extract
- 0.2 oz Optiphen
- In a heat-safe container, combine the avocado oil, hazelnut oil, BTMS-50 and Polawax. Heat the container in the microwave using 30-60 second bursts until the waxes have fully melted. Be careful when removing the container, as it will be quite hot. Set aside.
- In a separate large container, heat the distilled water in the microwave (or on the stove top) until it reaches about 160-170 ° F. Once the water reaches the correct temperature, some of it may evaporate. Remeasure and add more distilled water if necessary until you have 21.4 ounces of hot water.
- Check the temperatures of both containers. Each container should be about 160° -180° F. If the oil and wax has cooled, place back into the microwave until fully melted. Place the stick blender into the water, and burp it to help get rid of bubbles. Pour the oil and wax mixture into the water and use a spatula to make sure every little bit is added. Begin pulsing the stick blender. The mixture will take on a “milky” appearance once the water, oil and waxes have begun to emulsify. Continue to pulse and stir for about a minute.
- Begin adding heaping spoonfuls of the kaolin clay and sea clay and pulsing the stick blender until combined. Continue adding the clay to the mixture and blending in small amounts until all the clay is added.
- Continue stick blending for about one to two minutes. Use a spatula to scrape down any clay that may be on the sides of the bowl. Check the temperature of the mixture. Once the mixture is about 130-140°F, add the optiphen, tea tree essential oil and ginseng extract. Stick blend (don’t forget to burp the stick blender!) the ingredients in until fully mixed.
- Continue to stick blend for several more minutes, just to make sure the ingredients are fully emulsified.
- Pour the mixture into the bail jars. If you find you have a lot of bubbles on the top, you can spritz the top of the containers with 99% isopropyl alcohol to help get rid of some of them. Allow the containers to cool for several hours with the lid open to avoid condensation. Once fully cooled, the mixture will be a thick, lotion-like texture.
- To use, apply a medium layer to dry, clean skin. Avoid the immediate eye area. Allow the mask to sit on the skin for about 10-15 minutes; after this time, it will begin to dry. Use warm water to rinse off. There is no need to wash the skin after, but you can if you prefer.
Hi,
Alternative of hazelnut oil in this mask?
I dont have ginseng extract and btms 50, is it okay if i omit these?
Any lightweight oil would be a fine substitute for Hazelnut. My first go to would be Sweet Almond. You can omit the extract if you would like but removing the BTMS might cause the emulsion to fail so if you do have to remove it, add more Polawax instead.
Can i use emulsifying wax instead of polawax? If yes then what quantity should i use.
Hi, May I know, i store my claymask in plastic jar with stopper. However, it will sweat when it contact with heat ie when u leave it in a your toiletries bag. It will appear on the stopper. Will it effect the claymask?
This recipe contains the preservative Optiphen so the extra condensation shouldn’t be a problem. The preservative will protect against bacteria growth.
Optiphen: https://www.brambleberry.com/Optiphen-P3682.aspx
Aha.. Ok. Since I made it without fragrance, i realise after a month, the smell changed. More like paint. Is it because of the e-wax? I used e-wax NF since i can’t find Polawax locally. Or is it because of the btms-50? Thank you.
Paint is a super specific smell so I wouldn’t be certain as we haven’t experienced that. You might want to preform a bacteria and mold test just to make sure your product is still safe to use.
Hi are all the ingredients measured the same? Are they all measured in mass (weight) ounces or fluid ounces (volume)? Or are the dry ingredients weighed by mass and the liquid ingredients are in fluid ounces?
Just wanted to clarify, thank you!
All of the ingredients are measured by weight except the Tea Tree Essential Oil which calls for 2 mL, a volume measurement.
Hi, I have a question regarding the Sea Clay, Now is the Sea Clay the same thing as Dead Sea Mud? I’ve been seeing that ingredient a lot while browsing for New Inspiration ☺. Also can I use Sea Clay in facial masks that are meant for dry and/or combination skin, if not which clays would you recommend? TIA.
Diana~Marie
Sea Clay and Dead Sea Mud are different. Sea Clay is best for oily skin, but this recipe can be formulated for combination skin if you reduce the amount of clay. Kaolin Clay is best for dry skin. This post talks about the properties of different clays: https://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/tips-and-tricks/which-clay-is-right-for-your-skin/
Could I use bio wax and skip the btms 50? If so how much biowax? Thank you!!
We haven’t worked with that ingredient before. Check with the manufacturer to make sure it emulsifies with oil and water. If you do try it, make a small test batch because it will change the consistency.
I meant Bio-Mulsion Wax. Sorry!
Bio-Mulsion Wax is more similar to Polawax than BTMS-50, so the consistency may be different. If you try it, we recommend making a small test batch first to see how it goes.
I have read in another place where I’m tryingto learn more about formulating that Clay’s can grow bacteria that is very bad. I love your clay recipes, but I don’t want to harm anyone! Should I be worried? Using good manufacturing practices. Please advise
This recipe has 0.2 oz. of Optiphen. It’s a preservative that helps prevent mold and bacteria growth. We recommend it for all recipes that use water or recipes that will come in contact with water during use.
Learn more about preservatives here: http://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/lotion/talk-it-out-tuesday-preservatives/
We also recommend disinfecting your tools with a bleach water solution, which helps protect against mold and bacteria as well.
Can we omit the extract? Also about how long does it take to solidify?
You can omit the extract. The mask takes anywhere from 1-2 hours or up to overnight to thicken. To speed that process up, leave it in a cool, dry place with plenty of airflow.
Hello,
Do you have to use both the Polawax Emulsifying Wax and the BTMS-50 Conditioning Emulsifier in the mask recipes? I have the Emulsifying wax but am having a hard time finding the Conditioning Emulsifier.
Thanks!
Polawax Emulsifying Wax is a highly reliable and strong emulsifier. It could be substituted for the generic version, Emulsifying Wax, if you prefer, although this recipe was not tested with Emulsifying Wax. Due to the clay in the recipe, we splurged and used Polawax Emulsifying Wax to avoid any chance of separation.
As for the BTMS-50, you can replace it with e-wax. It just won’t have the same conditioning properties.
How much Activated Charcoal would I add if I wanted to make this a Charcoal/White Kaolin Clay Mask that has the same consistency of the Rose Clay Mask?
We tried activated charcoal in these recipes and it didn’t work well. It clumped up and wouldn’t fully mix into the mask: https://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/tips-and-tricks/activated-charcoal-skin-benefits-tips-for-use/
We don’t recommend it for this recipe. Instead, you may like this face scrub made with charcoal and kaolin clay: https://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/cleansing-charcoal-facial-scrub-diy/
Hi! I’m looking to make this recipe but with organic vegatable wax instead of polawax. Would i still need the conditioning emulsifier? Could i use xanthum gum in it’s place (if needed) and if so, how much and at what stage? I’m scared to just use the vegetable wax on its own and it not set right
We haven’t worked with that wax so I’m not sure. Do you know if it’s just a regular wax, or if it has an emulsifier in it? That’s necessary to combine the oil and water.
it has polysorbate 80 and 20 in it!
Great, it should emulsify the oil and water then. You’ll want to contact the manufacturer to be sure, and also to ask for directions for use/usage rates.
How much would i have to divide the ingredients by to make 1 4 oz jar? I know that may seem like a lot but i’m trying to make a tester version first
It may be easier to make two 4 ounce jars – in that case you can just divide all the ingredients by 4.
I made it today by dividing everything by 4 and before I put it into my 8 oz jar it was already thick. I let it sit for about 4.5 hours before using and it still has a whipped like texture. is this fine? I used about .75 oz of emulsifying vegetable wax (1.8/4).
Because we haven’t worked with that wax I’m not sure. Our formula was thin going into the jar but thickened as it sat. You may try the mask to see what you think. If you like the way it feels you can make a larger batch.
I’ve made the mask but ive noticed that there’s still some residual liquid in the mixture (when i turn the jar upside down a few drops come out). what could i have messed up in the process? did it need more clay and less water?
It sounds like it may be separating. You can scoop the mask back into a bowl, heat it to about 140F and stick blend for another few minutes. If it’s still separating I’d recommend using Polawax and BTMS-50 from BrambleBerry.com.
Polawax: https://www.brambleberry.com/Polawax-Emulsifying-Wax-P4209.aspx
BTMS-50: https://www.brambleberry.com/Btms-50-Conditioning-Emulsifier-P3623.aspx
Can you use masks immediately after making them, or do you have to wait a while to allow the extracts and preservatives to disperse?
I made a mask using roughly these same ratios, with pink clay, chamomile, calendula, and evening primrose extracts, and preserved it with Preservative K at around 0.8% (even on the low side – it’s supposed to be used at 1.5% for clay masks according to the website where I bought it).
I let the mask cool in the jar for around 20 minutes before applying, and it definitely irritated my skin (left bright red patches after washing off).
Do you know why this might have happened? Did I put it on too soon after making it?
I also used a low-shear mixing method (silicone spatula instead of hand blender), so I’m wondering if maybe the ingredients didn’t get evenly distributed throughout the mask paste… Thanks!
I’m not sure, you may be sensitive or allergic to one of the ingredients. We haven’t worked with that preservative so I’m not sure how it performs. I would recommend to stop using the mask and talk to your doctor.
I’m having a hard time finding Hazelnut Oil.. Which other oil could I substitute in for it? 🙂
You can use grapeseed oil, apricot kernel oil, or hemp seed oil in place of the hazelnut. They have a similar consistency.
This post on substituting oils has more information: http://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/tips-and-tricks/how-to-substitute-oil-in-cold-process-recipes/
We also carry hazelnut oil on BrambleBerry.com: https://www.brambleberry.com/Hazelnut-Fixed-Oil-P3197.aspx
Grapeseed oil: https://www.brambleberry.com/Grapeseed-Oil-P6029.aspx
Hemp seed oil: https://www.brambleberry.com/Natural-Hemp-Seed-Oil-P3211.aspx
Apricot kernel oil: https://www.brambleberry.com/Apricot-Kernel-Oil-P3206.aspx
Hello from Amsterdam! I was thinking about adding fresh strawberries and free lemon juice to this mask. Do you think I should dehydrate the strawberries first? In which proportion would you add it to the recipe? Or would you totally advise to skip it?
Thanks in advance and have a lovely day 🙂
We wouldn’t recommend fresh products like strawberry or lemon in this recipe. They will go bad in the mask and shorten the shelf life to just a few weeks. Instead, you can make the recipe as is and then add strawberry and lemon right before use. Make sure to test a small amount on skin to make sure you’re not sensitive to those fresh ingredients.
Could you replace hazelnut oil with apricot kernel oil or grape seed oil if you are trying to avoid nut allergies?
Yes, either one of those will work well in this recipe. Hemp seed oil is another good substitute.
Apricot kernel oil: https://www.brambleberry.com/Apricot-Kernel-Oil-P3206.aspx
Grapeseed oil: https://www.brambleberry.com/Grapeseed-Oil-P6029.aspx
Hemp seed oil: https://www.brambleberry.com/Natural-Hemp-Seed-Oil-P3211.aspx
Hello! I love this recipe – it is definitely for oily skin though! Thanks for writing. I’m wondering if you knew how long it would last with these ingredients (no preservatives):
Green european clay powder, spirulina powder, organic beeswax, avocado oil, vitamin e oil, tea tree essential oil, american ginseng extract, distilled water
Thanks!
Without a preservative, that recipe will only have a shelf life of a few weeks. The mold and bacteria can start growing in just a few days. I wouldn’t recommend making that recipe without a preservative. Using 1% of Optiphen or Phenonip will work well.
Optiphen: https://www.brambleberry.com/Optiphen-P3682.aspx
Phenonip: https://www.brambleberry.com/Phenonip-P4038.aspx
Learn more about preservatives here: http://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/lotion/talk-it-out-tuesday-preservatives/
Also, can I swap up some ingredients and put espresso fo and coffee grinds and red Brazilian clay instead for a coffee scrub mask?
Yes, but you’ll want to make a small test batch with the substitutions to see if you like the consistency. As far as how much coffee to add, I would recommend starting with just 1 tablespoon and adding more from there. It’s pretty scrubby so too much may be harsh on the face.
Find out how much Espresso Fragrance Oil to add with our Fragrance Calculator: https://www.brambleberry.com/Pages/Fragrance-Calculator.aspx
Espresso Fragrance Oil: https://www.brambleberry.com/Espresso-Fragrance-Oil-P5889.aspx
Hi! Can I half this recipe? Not sure I want to start out with 8 containers full. Thanks!
Yes, feel free to cut this recipe in half.
how long it can be use? i mean how can we decide the expires date?
This mask lasts 3-6 months. To keep it fresher longer, make sure to store in a cool, dry place. Learn more about storing your products here: https://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/tips-and-tricks/how-to-store-handmade-bath-products/
Can i use Beewax instead of Polawax Emulsifying Wax.?
No, beeswax won’t emulsify the water and oils like the Polawax. We recommend Polawax in this recipe for best results.
So sorry, the mask I made was the Lavender Clay face mask.
Had the trouble with that one being to loose, watery.
Joan.
Did you try heating and stick blending for 4-5 more minutes?
I have the same problem as comment in March 22, 2017. My mask separated and was very watery. I mixed it more in the jar with a spoon, that helped it mix. But days later it is still watery but better than before. Never got solid like a smooth paste mask. It is loose enough to paint on with a soft brush. I did add 3 more oz of Kaolin clay and I used a stick blender and used French green clay. It moves slowly back and forth in the jars. I tried to make sure the temp was 160 to 170, but that was hard. I used 2 glass bowls and they wanted to cool off fast.
Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.
Hmm. I wonder if the ingredients did not get fully emulsified, which is why they are starting to separate out. The problem could also stem from the different clay and amounts. If you find they are separating, you can try gently heating the mixture in the microwave until it’s a liquid consistency again, and stick blend it together for another several minutes to emulsify everything together again.
-Amanda with Bramble Berry
Yep, me too. I used French Green Clay and Kaolin Clay. I halved the recipe so I used 2 ounces of each clay and it was really loose and watery. The water separated out ly and rose to the surface when jarred. I reheated and stick blended again and it was still quite watery but not separated. I previously made a batch with Australian Red clay that had a beautiful fluffy mousse consistency and was awesome (just need to wipe face with paper towel or you’ll have a red towel if you missed a spot). I tossed this watery French Green Clay batch and then used 1 oz. Rose Clay, 1 oz. Kaolin, and 2 ounces Bentonite and that ended up REALLY thick but still workable and spreadable on your skin. So the lesson learned is the clays have different absorption levels. The French Green amount needs to increase and the Bentonite mixture needs less.
Hi, can i use bentonite clay instead of sea clay?
Yes, you can use bentonite clay. Clays have different absorbing properties, which will affect how it feels on the skin. Learn which clay is right for your skin in this post: https://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/tips-and-tricks/which-clay-is-right-for-your-skin/
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
Bentonite clay: https://www.brambleberry.com/bentonite-clay-p4059.aspx
Thanks for this recipe. I am trying to make an all natural mask so would I be able to skip the water and preservatives and instead make this a balm with beeswax? I am trying to use only all natural ingredients but get the benefits of the clay mask. Thanks!!
A balm will feel pretty different than this recipe. Because this mask is emulsified, it has a lightweight feeling on the skin and the clay helps to absorb oil. Because a balm isn’t emulsified, it will have a heavier and more moisturizing feeling on the skin. You can definitely make a balm, that’s just something to keep in mind. I’ll link a few balm recipes you may like below. I’ll also link a clay mask made without water and emulsifier.
Frankincense Essential Oil Balm: https://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/lotion/frankincense-essential-oil-balm/
Chamomile and Coconut Oil Balm: https://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/infused-chamomile-coconut-balm/
Cleansing Clay Masks: https://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/soaks-and-scrubs/cleansing-clay-masks-on-soap-queen-tv/
Rose Clay Mask: https://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/rose-clay-exfoliating-mask-soap-queen-tv/
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
turns out I only have 2 oz sea clay….should I sub in rose, just add more kaolin or what about kelp powder, would that be gross?
You can add more kaolin to make up for that difference, that will work nicely. The face mask may not be as absorbing as one made with the full amount of sea clay, as kaolin clay is a bit more gentle.
Learn more about clays here: https://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/tips-and-tricks/which-clay-is-right-for-your-skin/
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
Darn! I forgot to get the tea tree oil. Can I use rosemary, or would that be a bad idea near the eyes. Or carrot seed?
You can use rosemary or carrot seed, either one would work fine. I would recommend a small amount (2 mL like the tea tree) because the mask goes on the face. More than 2 mL can be a bit too strong right by the nose.
Rosemary essential oil: https://www.brambleberry.com/Rosemary-Essential-Oil-P3817.aspx
Carrot seed essential oil: https://www.brambleberry.com/Carrot-Seed-Essential-Oil-P3830.aspx
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
Hello,
I’m Asian. I’m searching DIY clay mask on Gg for my own business. i was impressived with your recipes and direction. But i have a little problem with meansurement units. In my country, we use ml & gram. Humm, that’s tough!Now i’m trying to convert oz to ml & gram. :(((( its watse a lot of time .
You can use a search engine like Google to convert those measurements easily! Just type 21.4 oz. in grams into the search bar and it will give you 606.67 grams.
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
Hello,
I noticed that all of the clay recipes call for the same amount of ingredients except the clay. One recipe calls for 4.5oz of clay, another has 6oz, and this one has 8oz. Is this because you need more or less clay depending on the kind/ combination? I am trying to come up with a base recipe of ratios, that I can follow to make different clay masks for myself. Can I standardize the amount of clay in all the recipes to 6oz?
All the clay amounts are different because the masks are tailored for different skin types. If the mask has less clay, it’s more hydrating and good for dry skin. If it has more clay, it’s better for oily skin. You can use the same amount of clay for each mask depending on your skin type. Learn more here: https://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/tips-and-tricks/face-mask-right/
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
Can I add raw honey to any of the clay mask recipes? How much?
You can. I would recommend starting with about 1 teaspoon per pound of soap added to the water. We haven’t tried this mask with honey so I would definitely recommend a small test batch to see how it does.
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
Hi.. I noticed that the Polywax was a bit pricier than the regular E wax.. I was wondering if there would be a difference if I substitute it? And also, I had recently purchased Tea Tree Essential Oil form BB and I’m wondering what it’s supposed to smell like. To me and my husband, it almost smells like tire.. just wondering if I got a bad batch or that’s how it smells. Thank you.
Polawax Emulsifying Wax is a highly reliable and strong emulsifier. It could be substituted for the generic version, Emulsifying Wax, if you prefer, although this recipe was not tested with Emulsifying Wax. Due to the clay in the recipe, we splurged and used Polawax Emulsifying Wax to avoid any chance of separation.
Also, tea tree essential oil has a fairly distinct earthy scent. To me it sort of smells medicinal, similar to eucalyptus. Do you notice those notes in yours?
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
Hi! can I skip the distilled water? that way I dont need to add a preservative. Or is it very necessary? Thank you!
You can make a mask with just the clay if you like. In that case, you can add water or oil to make a paste and apply to the face. You can also leave out the water and waxes to have an oil-based mask. You may need to play with the ratios of oil and clay to get the consistency you’re looking for.
You may also like the Silky Coconut Milk Mask, which is dry: https://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/soaks-and-scrubs/silky-coconut-milk-face-mask/
Without water, a preservative is not required for this mask. If there is any chance of splashing water inside or if you plan to sell the masks, you can add one to be extra careful. Learn more about preservatives here: http://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/lotion/talk-it-out-tuesday-preservatives/
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
How long does this last once made?
This mask lasts 3-6 months. To keep it fresher longer, make sure to store in a cool, dry place.
Learn more about storing your products here: https://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/tips-and-tricks/how-to-store-handmade-bath-products/
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
Hi, I would like to comment on How to make hair conditioner on scratch but it won’t let me, so I comment to this article. Can I substitute the BTMS-50 to Emulsifying Wax Or Polawax (Croda)? Can I still make hair conditioner using Polawax or E-wax? Thanks and have a Good Day! 🙂
You can, both e-wax and Polawax will emulsify the conditioner. We used BTMS-50 because it emulsifies and conditions, so without it the conditioner will feel slightly different. You may want to make a small test batch to see what you think. Learn more about making emulsified products here: https://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/lotion/how-to-create-homemade-lotion-recipes/
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
Could the emulsifiers be substituted with polysorbate?
We haven’t tried Polysorbate 80 on its own in this recipe, so I’m not entirely sure. Because it’s a liquid emulsifier instead of a wax it may make the masks thinner. I would recommend a small test batch to see how it works.
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
Polysorbate 80: https://www.brambleberry.com/Polysorbate-80-P4438.aspx
Hi, Anne Marrie! Can I also add Activated Charcoal on this recipe? How much much would I add? Thanks and have a Good Day! 😆
We tried activated charcoal in this mask and didn’t have a lot of luck. It had trouble mixing in fully, you can see that here: https://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/tips-and-tricks/activated-charcoal-skin-benefits-tips-for-use/
You can use another clay if you like! Learn which one is right for your skin type here: https://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/tips-and-tricks/which-clay-is-right-for-your-skin/
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
Hi, Anne Marie! Can I use Peppermint Essential Oil instead of Tea Tree Essential Oil for cooling facial mask? How much for Peppermint essential oil should I add for this recipe? Thank You and have a Good Day! 😆
Peppermint essential oil is very strong and can be irritating to the skin. It causes a cooling sensation, and can also irritate the mucous membranes. The fumes can also irritate the eyes, so we don’t recommend it in this mask. You can use another essential oil if you like though. Lavender 40/42 would be really nice. 🙂
Lavender 40/42 Essential Oil: https://www.brambleberry.com/Lavender-4042-Essential-Oil-P3664.aspx
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
So I’m having a little problem with this recipe and i’d love some insight. My clay is the perfect consistency, up until i add the Opitphen and essential oil. Once i add those two ingredients the opitphen separates from the mixture and makes it more runny and it has the consistency of spoiled yogurt. I’m using all the correct measurements our only changes are french green clay instead of Sea clay and excluding the extract, i also dont have a stick blender.
I would definitely recommend a stick blender. Stirring by hand or using a hand blender can take a long time to emulsify – at least 2 hours. The stick blender gets everything mixed in just a few minutes! This one is a great option: https://www.brambleberry.com/Black-Stick-Blender-P5245.aspx
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
One thing that would improve this is to have printable ingredients label
And to have a price point of sales. Just thinking out loud
Thanks so much for the suggestion! We’ll definitely keep that in mind for future posts. 🙂
This post on how to price your products may be helpful for you: https://www.soapqueen.com/business/much-charge-products/
This post on labeling products has some great information as well: https://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/lotion/how-to-label-lotion/
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
Can I use phenonip as my preservative?
You can! You can use it at the same amount as the Optiphen. 🙂
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
Hi kelsey! Can i use jojoba oil or sweet almond oil for this recipe? Can you also suggest other oils that i can use for the face? Thank you.
Other oils can be used if you prefer! We recommend staying with liquid oils that absorb easily into the skin. Jojoba, sweet almond and argan are all great options. 🙂
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
Jojoba oil: https://www.brambleberry.com/Jojoba-Oil-Golden-P3219.aspx
Sweet almond oil: https://www.brambleberry.com/Sweet-Almond-Oil-P3205.aspx
Argan oil: https://www.brambleberry.com/Argan-Oil-P5574.aspx
I made this face mask, & gave one to a friend. She just emailed me, saying she really liked how it made her skin feel, & asked how often she can use it.
My first thought was that if it did not irritate her skin, or dry it excessively, then two or three times a week, but is that too frequent? I went online to see if there was a consensus as to frequency of use, but did not find the answer. Most of the discussion was about commercial products ($55.00 a jar? Holy smokes!) & exfoliating clay masks.
Do you have any advice for me to pass on to her?
Absolutely! Face masks with a lot of clay (like this one) are recommended about 1-3 times a week. More than that can dry the skin out. However, it is personal preference and everyone’s skin is a bit different! If your friend finds her skin is doing well, she can use it up to 3 times. For those with drier or more sensitive skin, once a week will work. 🙂
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
Thanks so much!
The sea clay mask is a great recipe! Just tried it today and I love how it feels on my face and the scent and sensation from the tea tree EO. It’s just perfect! My daughters are going to love it.
That’s awesome, glad to hear that! Thanks Kathy. 🙂
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
Hi, I would love to try this recipe out!
But I have 1 important question. Can I replace the Polawax & BTMS-50 with Emulsifying Wax NF?
Sorry you have answer it in another post (Lavender Clay Mask). Thanks for the reply! =D
*answered
You’re welcome! If you have any other questions let us know. 🙂
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
How long will these masks last once created and/or opened?
This recipe has a shelf life of about 3-6 months. To keep it fresher longer, make sure to store in a cool, dry place. 🙂
Learn more about storing your products here: https://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/tips-and-tricks/how-to-store-handmade-bath-products/
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
If i wanted to replace the Hazelnut oil with a different oil woudl it be the same amount? Maybe coconut? What would be a good replacement? I am allergic to all nut products.
Other oils can be used instead if you prefer! We recommend staying with liquid oils that absorb easily into the skin. A good option would be using all avocado oil in place of hazelnut. You can also use meadowfoam oil in place of hazelnut oil. Meadowfoam is nice and light. 🙂
Meadowfoam oil: https://www.brambleberry.com/Meadowfoam-Oil-P4978.aspx
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
Thanks for the face mask recipes. I am looking for a charcoal face mask recipe and wondered if you had any ideas or tips on how to go about this?
You’re welcome Anita, glad you’re enjoying the masks! We tried charcoal with these and didn’t have great results. The charcoal didn’t mix in well and created an interesting marbled look. You can use it mixed with oil though! You can use this rose clay recipe and add charcoal, or swap out the rose clay for charcoal: https://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/rose-clay-exfoliating-mask-soap-queen-tv/
We also have an activated charcoal scrub recipe on the blog next week. Keep your eyes peeled for that one. 🙂
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
hey question the recipe syas 4 oz of sea clay but when adding to my cart it adds 1 oz just to be clear what is the correct ammout of sea clay?
Oh whoops, that’s a mistake on our part. Sorry about that. You need 4 ounces of sea clay for this recipe, so we’ll get 4 ounces added to the kit. 🙂
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
thank you so much, can’t wait to try this out!
I made my first mp bars today, and I just have a question about them. (I know this is off topic, sorry) Are the bars supposed to feel slick? Like how the base feels before melting? Or are they supposed to be dry to the touch? I waited until they were fully cooled and hardened before unmolding.
They should feel hard to the touch, but will feel very slick when they come in contact with water. Do you notice a film on the bars, or beading? If so, you may have glycerin dew. In humid climates, the bases will attract moisture from the air and feel wet to the touch. You can prevent that by wrapping the bars tightly with plastic wrap! Learn more here: http://www.soapqueen.com/personal-ramblings/augh-whats-that-all-over-my-soap-2/
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry
There is no film or beading. I don’t think I allowed them to cool long enough. I made a test bar and allowed it to sit overnight and it turned out beautiful 🙂 I thought they should feel like a store bought bar, but these feel so much better.
Oh awesome, glad to hear that Teri! Enjoy your bars. 🙂
-Kelsey with Bramble Berry