The Silky Secret of Kaolin Clay

kaolin Clay

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For centuries, people have treasured kaolin clay for its beauty-enhancing and purifying properties. But did you know this humble mineral can also work wonders in the world of soapmaking? That's right, kaolin clay is not just for face masks and mud baths! It's become a secret weapon for us soapmakers who want to create luxurious, gentle, and effective bars.

What is Kaolin Clay?
Kaolin clay is a mild type of clay made up of a mineral known as kaolinite, which can be found all over the globe. You may also see it referred to as white clay or China clay.

The original kaolin clay was harvested from a hill in China, Kao-ling, which was the only source of the clay for hundreds of years. However, kaolin clay now comes from multiple sources, including the United States, Brazil, China and Pakistan.

Kaolin clay is known for being very finely powdered, soft and usually off-white or pink in color.

The clay is composed of tiny minerals and crystals (including feldspar, quartz, silica, copper, magnesium and zinc). It has a relatively neutral pH level of around 4.5, which is close to the skin’s natural pH of 5.5.

Unlike some clays that can be harsh and abrasive, kaolin clay is mild enough for even the most sensitive skin.

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Other Names for Kaolin Clay
There are a few other names you may see kaolin clay listed under on an ingredient list. Although these are “subcategories” of kaolin clay, each effectively works the same way.

BRAZILIAN CLAY: This type of kaolin clay is brighter and has slightly more absorbent properties than regular kaolin. It also comes in different colors.


ROSE CLAY: With the same delicate texture as standard kaolin clay, rose clay offers many benefits, with a slightly deeper pink color.

Benefits of Kaolin Clay in Soap:

  • Gentle Exfoliation: Kaolin clay's fine particles gently buff away dead skin cells, leaving your skin feeling smooth and refreshed. This exfoliation can also help to unclog pores and prevent breakouts.
  • Oil Absorption: Oily skin? Kaolin clay is your friend! Its natural absorbency helps to draw out excess oil, leaving your skin feeling mattified and balanced.
  • Detoxification: Kaolin clay has the ability to draw out impurities and toxins from the skin. This can help to reduce the appearance of blemishes and improve overall skin health.
  • Creamy Lather: Adding kaolin clay to your soap recipe can create a rich and creamy lather that feels luxurious against the skin.
  • Increased Lather Stability: Kaolin clay can help to stabilize the lather in your soap, preventing it from disappearing too quickly.
  • Anchors Fragrance:  Yes! Kaolin clay helps fragrance oils in soapmaking last longer!
  • Silky Soap:  Adds slip and silkiness to soap bars.

Different Types of Kaolin clay:

  • White Kaolin Clay – Gentle and great for sensitive skin
  • Yellow Kaolin Clay – Has a gentle exfoliating factors and is more absorbent than white kaolin clay.
  • Red Kaolin Clay – Most absorbent kaolin clay and great for oily, or acne prone skin.

 

How to use:

Add 1 tsp up to 1 TB per pound of CP soap.

We at Victorialily Soaps love using both skin-beneficial clays and herbal powders for their natural coloring.

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