Why I Work With Clay

On Working With Clay

Clay has been used across cultures for generations as a way to support the body through contact with the earth. My relationship with clay grew slowly, through hands-on practice and time spent observing how skin responds when it’s met with simple, grounding materials.

In my work, I use clay not as a corrective, but as a supportive element.

Certain clays have a natural affinity for oil and buildup on the skin, which can help create a feeling of clarity and calm when applied gently. I’ve found clay to be especially helpful for skin that feels congested, reactive, or inflamed, offering a quiet way to soften and rebalance.

The clay I work with is mineral-rich and responsive to water, forming a smooth paste that feels cooling and steady on the skin. Rather than forcing change, it encourages the skin’s own processes to settle and reorganize.

When used with intention, clay becomes less about results and more about relationship, a way to slow down, listen, and support the skin without over-stimulation. This is how I approach clay in both session work and formulation: as a grounding companion, not a cure.

This reflection is shared for educational purposes and is not intended to diagnose or treat any condition.