Why You Should Use Clay-Based Hair Products

When you think of clay in beauty products, your mind probably goes straight to the cleanser or face mask you reach for when your pores are in need of a purge. But, did you ever think about using clay in your hair? Turns out the super absorbent mineral proves useful for more than just detoxifying your face. After seeing the interesting ingredient start to pop up in hair products from some of our favorite brands, we decided to chat with Alison Chin, Manager of Product Development at Matrix, to get down to the nitty gritty of what clay can do to transform your tresses.

Kaolin claya common ingredient used in skincarehas oil-absorbing properties and literally sops up excess sebum, leaving behind a matte (read: shine-free) finish. Thats why when you wash your face or use a face mask with it, your skin feels so squeaky clean afterwards. So, it makes sense that when it's applied to your scalpwhich is made of skinthe mineral works similarly, and as it turns out, has really awesome benefits for your hair (score!).

When formulating the Biolage R.A.W Uplift line Chin says the brand wanted to target those who suffer from oily scalps, but also struggle with getting volume and body. While there are many versions of clay from different origins, sources, and processing methods, Chin says they opted to use kaolin clay to add a unique texture to the conditioners in the line. Kaolin clay gives a different consistency that we havent seen beforeinstead of it appearing creamy and shiny, it has a matte look to it, says Chin. This particular mattifying effect lends itself to treating your scalp, and has oil-absorbing properties. The clay helps remove any grease from the scalp, leaving your hair with lots of texture and added fullness, says Chin. Thats exactly what the Biolage R.A.W. Uplift Conditioner doesit gives major volume to oily and fine strands without weighing hair down or stripping it of moisture.

Kaolin clay isnt just the star ingredient of the new Biolage R.A.W conditioners, but also can be found in other hair product formulas that have recently hit shelves. To prolong second-day strands, we like Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Biotin Dry Shampoo, which contains charcoal and kaolin clay to draw out impurities, while tapioca and rice starches remove oil from the scalp without causing irritation. For a real scalp revival try the R+Co CROWN Scalp Scrub, which also has kaolin clay, along with Ecuadorian ivory palm seed powder to exfoliate, and salicylic acid to remove buildup and dandruff from the scalp.