Why French Pink Clay is a Superhero Ingredient

You’ve probably heard of—and tried—a classic clay skincare mask. Clay has been used as a topical treatment for centuries (and is there a more quintessential sleepover activity?). But we’ll let you in on a skincare secret: not all clays—and clay masks—are created equal.

Allow us to introduce you to the superhero of face clays: French pink clay. Not only is this face clay stunning in color but it’s also packed with skin-saving, miracle-working benefits. However—as Averr Aglow founder Camille Chulick discovered during a trip to France—actual French pink clay is very rare. What’s more, many pink face clays on the market masquerade as French pink clays but are far less effective than the real deal.

What is true French pink clay?

Put your lab coat on because we’re about to get scientific (but don’t worry, it’s fun science). Many pink clay masks are made by mixing red and white kaolin clays to make pink kaolin clay. But true French pink clay is bentonite clay—and it’s pink from the very moment it’s harvested from the earth (specifically—and importantly—in the south of France).

Here’s the scientific part: Pink bentonite clay (French pink clay) is comprised of a high compound of volcanic ash from an inactive volcano in—you guessed it—the south of France.

“One of my favorite facts about our French Pink Clay is that it is derived from volcanos,” says Averr Aglow chemist Erica Tuttle. “When volcanic ash ages, bentonite is formed. This clay is mineral-rich and full of antibacterial properties, which protect and nourish the skin.” This mix of minerals—like calcium, magnesium, silica, sodium, copper, iron, and potassium—also gives the clay its beautiful pink color and detoxifying properties.

What are the benefits of a French pink clay mask?

An authentic French pink clay mask, like Averr Aglow’s Clear Skin Elixir, deeply detoxifies while refining pores and firming the skin—and the results are instant.

Bentonite clay carries a strong negative charge, which bonds to the positive charge in many toxins. This draws impurities like bacteria, pimples, and blackheads to the surface, leaving behind clean, clear, and refreshed pores.

French pink clay also controls oil, stimulates blood circulation, and gently exfoliates (don’t worry; it’s sensitive-skin-friendly), leaving you with a smooth complexion and lit-from-within glow.

Who should use a French pink clay mask?

The short answer: anyone! A French pink clay mask benefits all skin types but is especially beneficial for congested or acne-prone skin. Not only does it help clear breakouts, blackheads, and blemishes, but it also helps prevent them from happening, all while smoothing and tightening the skin.

What to look for in a French pink clay mask?

Because Pink bentonite clay is rare and rather expensive to acquire, it can be difficult to find skincare products and clay masks made with the real thing. So how do you find a high-quality French pink clay mask that’s made with the real deal? Make sure you’re shopping from reputable skincare brands that prioritize high-quality, scientifically backed ingredients and production methods.

Averr Aglow’s Clear Skin Elixir is a purifying pink clay mask made with real French pink clay—plus nutrient-rich plant extracts and botanical oils that complement the clay’s cleansing properties.

Coral from above-sea-level fossilized sea beds contains over 73 minerals that repair damaged skin, heal current breakouts, and boost cell turnover. Raspberry seed oil, tea tree oil, and bergamot fruit oil soothe the skin, treat acne, reduce breakouts, and minimize scarring or uneven skin tone.

Best of all, the Clear Skin Elixir’s hydrating formula means that it won’t cause dehydration or peeling and is gentle enough to use as an overnight treatment (in fact, we recommend it). You can also dab it on as a spot treatment when needed. Like all Averr Aglow products, the Clear Skin Elixir is cruelty-free (yay!), non-toxic, and free from GMOs, artificial fragrances, parabens, and sulfates.