Detox Your Curls: The Power of Bentonite Clay for Hair & Scalp
Easy and affordable, a monthly clay detox can be incredibly beneficial to your curly hair and scalp health, especially if you’re dealing with buildup, dull curls, or itchy flakes. In this post, I’ll walk you through how to use Bentonite clay for curly hair, why it works, and how I do it myself.
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Ingredients You’ll Need
- Bentonite Clay – Buy here – If you’re in Doha, the Souk Wakif has the best prices!
- Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) – Buy here – preferably with the mother
- Charcoal Powder (optional) – Buy here – for deeper detox
- Jamaican Black Castor Oil (JBCO) (optional) – Buy here
- Filtered Water or Hair Tea – I use Bouncecurl – Buy here – USE LINK TO SAVE 25%
- Essential Oils (optional)
⚠️ Use a non-metal bowl and spoon for mixing, as bentonite clay can react with metal and lose its detox properties.
What Is Bentonite Clay?
Bentonite clay is formed from volcanic ash, preserved in a water-rich environment. It has an electrical charge that acts like a magnet, attracting toxins, metals, and impurities to it—making it perfect for scalp and hair detoxing.
Think of it like the gentler, more refined cousin of Multani Mitti. While Multani is just mud and gentle on your skin, Bentonite is clarifying, and deeply purifying.
Benefits of Using Bentonite Clay on Hair
- Clarifies scalp and removes buildup
- Restores bounce, softness, and shine to curls
- Encourages hair growth and scalp healing
- Helps treat dandruff, itchiness, and scalp irritation
- Leaves curls lightweight and full of life
- Safe for natural or relaxed hair
Note: This is not color safe. Great to use if you want to get rid of your hair color 🙂
How to Make the Bentonite Clay Hair Mask
Quantities for mid-to-long hair:
- 2 to 3 tablespoons Bentonite Clay (depending on your hair length and density)
- 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
- A splash of filtered water or brewed hair tea
- Optional: 1 tsp activated charcoal + 3–4 drops essential oil
- Optional: a few drops of Sunny Isle JBCO for added nourishment
- Optional: honey
Method:
- In a non-metal bowl, add all your dry ingredients.
- Slowly mix in the apple cider vinegar and let it fizz.
- Add water or tea until you get a thick, yogurt-like consistency.
- Mix in essential oils or JBCO if desired.
- Apply to wet, detangled hair section by section.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes ONLY—do NOT let it dry completely.
- Rinse with warm water and condition generously.
- Deep condition if your hair is coarse, or high porosity.
- Style as usual or use the #123gel method to combat humidity.
❗Important Pro Tips
- This is a clarifying mask, not a deep conditioner.
- No need to pre-poo. Clay is cleansing by itself.
- Always condition or deep condition after clay.
- This is a shampoo replacement, use once a week, not more.
- Never let the mask dry fully—it will become hard and difficult to wash out.
- Store leftover clay mask in the fridge for up to a week.
Here’s how I use the bentonite clay to bring my curls back to life! (especially after using coconut products)
Can You Use Bentonite Clay on Your Face?
Absolutely! I use it for my oily, acne-prone skin once a month:
- Apply a thin layer and let it semi-dry (not cracky).
- Rinse with warm water or remove gently with a damp cloth.
- Skin feels clean, fresh, and velvety smooth!
- Great for blackheads, large pores, and inflammation.
- Do not rub!
❤️ Final Thoughts from Liz
I’ve used this method on my low porosity 3A-3B curls and it’s always a game-changer when my hair feels coated or lifeless. You’ll be surprised how light, defined, and healthy your curls feel after just one treatment.
If you haven’t tried it yet, this is your sign. And remmeber to DM or to tag me on Instagram @honestlizhere when you do!
Shop Products with Clay/Charcoal Benefits
If you’re not into DIY, here are some curl-friendly products that contain clay or offer similar detoxing effects:
- [Manetain Oil Control Combo] – Code: HONESTLIZ
- [K18 Detox Shampoo]
- [Bounce Curl Turmeric Purifying Hair & Scalp Mask] – Code: HONESTLIZ10
Need More Curly Hair Help?
If you found this helpful, share it with a curly friend who needs encouragement.
And if you’re looking for personalized help with your curls, check out my curl coaching packages and product guide to get started on your healthiest curl journey.