The Power of Aztec Secret Healing Clay for Hair

What is Aztec Secret Healing Clay?

Aztec Secret Healing Clay is a brand of bentonite healing clay, which is very popular in curly hair care.

Bentonite healing clay, aka montmorillonite clay, has been used for centuries as a facial mask as well as taken internally to help detoxify the body.

Bentonite clay was initially discovered in Montmorillon, France where the name montmorillonite clay was given to it.

Significant amounts of healing clay can also be found in Fort Benton, Wyoming, USA. Bentonite clay is derived from ash aged over time. This ash is usually found in volcanos. 

Related Content

• 5 Bentonite Clay Mask Recipes for Healthy & Glowing Skin
• How To Use Healing Clay for Skin
• The Best Clay for Step 3 of Max Hydration Method

10 Benefits of Bentonite Healing Clay for Hair

1. Natural Cleanser

Bentonite clay is a natural cleanser that helps draw out impurities, residual hair products, and excess oil from hair and scalp.

These impurities, and residual products are absorbed by the clay so when you rinse it off, your hair comes out squeaky clean.

Note you will still have to clarify at some point as this is not a complete replacement for shampoo.

2. Detoxifies Scalp

Bentonite clay’s natural ability to absorb impurities and toxins helps a healthier scalp environment which fosters optimized hair growth.

3. Softens Hair

Bentonite clay contains natural vitamins and minerals that contribute to nourishing the hair and scalp which leaves hair softer and increases manageability.

4. Doesn’t Strip Hair

Even though bentonite clay makes hair squeaky clean, it doesn’t strip the hair of moisture.

On the contrary, it opens up the hair’s cuticle so when you apply your finishing products, the hair absorbs it better before your cuticle closes.

5. Increased Curl Definition

Bentonite clay is especially beneficial for coily and kinky curly hair. It helps enhance curly definition and aids in curl clumping.

This is one of the reasons bentonite clay is a key ingredient in the Max Hydration Method.

6. Tames Frizz and Flyaways

Healing clay helps keep frizz and flyaways under control and promotes shiny hair.

7. Stronger and Shinier Hair

Healing clay contains many nutritional components but when it comes to hair, the best properties include silicon, protein, calcium, sulfur & iron – all vital for stronger & shinier hair.

8. Alleviates Scalp Issues

Bentonite clay can help alleviate certain scalp issues such as irritation, dandruff, and itchiness.

9. Improves Hair Volume

Over time, continual use of bentonite clay in your hair care regimen can help improve hair volume and thickness.

10. Suitable for All Hair Types

Bentonite clay is suitable for all hair types. However, there are some points to keep in mind depending on your hair type and needs. For instance:-

• Type 1 – 2 hair should use heavily diluted and in moderation.
• Dry & damaged hair should use a very moisturizing deep conditioning treatment after bentonite clay treatment to prevent further dryness. You can also add 1 tablespoon of raw honey to the bentonite clay mask before application.
• Do not use bentonite clay on color-treated hair as its ability to bind to hair and draw out impurities might reduce the color effects.

Cons of Bentonite Clay for Hair

While bentonite clay provides immense benefits for all hair types, there are still some cons to keep in mind prior to trying it out:-

1. Because of its ability to absorb products in hair, it will have a super drying effect on already dry hair. Be sure to follow with a deep conditioning treatment and don’t use bentonite clay as your primary natural cleanser. African black soap might be better for that.
2. Bentonite clay is hard to rinse out of hair and takes several rinses to get all the product out of your hair. This isn’t a deal breaker but good to note. If you leave bits of bentonite clay in your hair, it will cause dry hair.
3. Use bentonite clay on color-treated hair with caution. It will likely strip the color pigments from your hair and cause color fading. If you must use clay, start with the gentlest option suggested at Different Types of Healing Clay & Which is Best.
4. Bentonite clay application is super messy similar to henna and indigo.
5. Bentonite clay may cause irritation on sensitive scalp. Check the best options here.

Moisturizing Aztec Secret Healing Clay Recipe for Hair

Ingredients

This is a recipe I’ve been using on my hair for over 2 years and it works wonders.

• 3 heaped tablespoons of Aztec Secret Healing Clay
• 2 tablespoons of grapeseed oil or sweet almond oil
• ¼ – ½ teaspoon of apple cider vinegar
• Applicator bottle
• Silicone whisk

Directions

• Pour the Aztec Secret Healing Clay into a plastic bowl.
• Add in hot water and start mixing until it’s a smooth, creamy consistency. You can add more hot water if you prefer a thinner consistency, which is best when you intend to use it as a shampoo.
• Add the grapeseed oil or sweet almond oil. Use a whisk for easier mixing.
• Add the apple cider vinegar. Whisk until you’re satisfied with the consistency.
• Wait until cool then pour into an applicator bottle like this one or a large plastic bottle if you plan to use over a few days.
• Below is a mix I use. I’ve combined 2 different types of clay here. My hair really liked this.

Related Content: The Best Clay to Use for Step 3 of the Max Hydration Method

How to Use Aztec Secret Healing Clay Mask on Hair

Use Bentonite Clay As a Shampoo

• As a shampoo, apply to your hair as you would a conditioner.
• Make sure every strand is coated and work into your scalp as well.
• Cover with a disposable cap or wrap cling film around your head and leave on for 45 minutes – 1 hour
• Rinse out and deep condition your hair.

Use Bentonite Clay As a Detoxifying Treatment

• After shampooing (mild shampoo) like Davines Momo Shampoo for Dehydrated Hair and deep conditioning your hair, apply the clay mask.
• Leave on for 45 minutes – 1 hour.
• Rinse out and apply a leave-in conditioner followed by a suitable natural oil.
• Style your hair.

You can see a picture of my hair below after a typical hair care session that includes bentonite clay.

Where to Buy Aztec Secret Healing Clay?

You can find Aztec Secret Healing Clay on Amazon HERE. If you’re unable to find it on Amazon or live abroad, you can purchase it on iHerb HERE.

If this is your first time using iHerb, use code NAH479 for 10% off orders over $40.

Other Recommended Brands of Healing Clay

While Aztec Secret Healing Clay is the best brand of healing clay, it isn’t always possible to acquire it.

Below are other recommended brands of healing clay, which work just as well and come highly recommended:-

Now Foods Solutions Bentonite Clay Powder

Molivera Organics 100% Pure Bentonite Clay

Bonne Terre 100% Pure Bentonite Clay

6 Best Tips for Using Bentonite Healing Clay for Hair

1. Use Small Amounts at a Time

Bentonite clay swells significantly when mixed with hot water so mix in small amounts at a time.

While you can freeze the leftovers for next time without any issues, I prefer to mix a fresh batch every time.

2. Check the pH Level

Buy pH test strips to check the pH level of the bentonite clay every time you use it. It shouldn’t be more than 8.

If it is, you need to add a few things to lower the pH level such as apple cider vinegar.

Related Hair Growth Resources

3. Reduce Time Left on Scalp

If bentonite clay makes your scalp itch, then leave it on for no longer than 45 mins the next time you use it although this is very rare.

4. Moderate Use

Overuse of bentonite clay without balancing out with proper moisturizing products will lead to dry hair over time.

Ideally, once every week is more than ok unless you’re on the 7 Day program of the Max Hydration Method.

5. Mix in Plastic Components

Always mix your clay in a plastic container with a plastic spoon or silicone whisk. Metal utensils will reduce the clay’s effectiveness.

6. Avoid Processed Clay

Look out for clay that’s green/cream/brownish in color. White means it’s been processed in some way, which would have stripped the nutrients.

How to Store Bentonite Clay Powder

Leftover Clay from a Session

Pour it into a clear, non-metallic, airtight bottle or container and refrigerate for up to a month. It can even last longer in some cases. When ready to use, check the smell.

If it smells iffy, throw it out and make a new batch. Ensure the batch you’re refrigerating hasn’t been contaminated with a comb, brush, or your fingers.

Dry Bentonite Clay Powder

If the bentonite clay powder is dry, keep it in its airtight container and store it in a cool, dry area. Stored properly, it can last for years. 

The next article will discuss the different types of healing clay, benefits of healing clay for skin, the best way to use topically as well as safety points for internal use.

FAQs About Aztec Secret Healing Clay for Hair

What Does Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay Do?

Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay promotes curl definition, helps draw out toxins in hair and skin, and cleanses hair without stripping.

It also helps alleviate certain scalp conditions like dandruff and flakiness. It strengthens hair, tames frizz, and promotes shine.

You can use Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay on hair and skin. For skin uses, read:-

• How to Use Healing Clay for Skin
• Bentonite Clay Mask Recipes for Healthy & Glowing Skin

Can You Leave Aztec Healing Clay Overnight on Hair?

You can leave Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay in your hair overnight but you may not like its effects.

It won’t damage your hair but might dry it out. And you know what happens when hair stays consistently dry, right? Breakage!

Continue reading for my experience when I left Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay in my hair overnight.

Is It OK to Use Aztec Healing Clay Every Day?

It depends on what you’re using it for. If it’s for the Max Hydration Method, then every day works fine.

If you want to just apply Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay to your hair every day, that’s overkill and it will dry out your hair.

For skin, you can use it every day and follow up with a good moisturizer after rinsing out the clay.

Does Aztec Healing Clay Remove Blackheads?

Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay removes blackheads by wicking out the toxins in the skin and tightening pores.

Over a few uses, the blackheads will start to dry up and peel off eventually. Let it go through this process. Don’t peel off before it dries completely.

Does Aztec Healing Clay Expire?

Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay is a natural mineral that has a very long shelf life. It can last anything from 4 – 5 years before it’s no longer viable.

Can I Add Aztec Healing Clay to My Shampoo?

Do not mix Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay with your shampoo. You may have very unexpected results that can damage hair.

Instead, make a simple shampoo out of Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay by mixing 2 tablespoons of clay with water.

Should I Moisturize After Aztec Healing Clay?

You should always moisturize after using Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay. It draws out toxins from hair and opens up the cuticles.

You need to close the cuticles with the appropriate treatments after the clay, which is why following up with a moisturizing session is important.

These treatments will bring your hair’s pH balance back to the correct levels after treating it with clay.

Does Aztec Healing Clay Clog Drain? 

Indeed, it does. Not immediately. It usually takes a few clay washing sessions before you start getting slow running water in the drains.

You can clear it with a flush of hot water and baking soda or vinegar a few times. Do this every few weeks even if the drain isn’t clogged.

What Happens if You Leave Aztec Healing Clay on Hair Too Long?

If you leave Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay in your hair too long, it will overwork and really dry out your hair.

The longest I’ve left Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay on my hair is overnight and I didn’t like the stringy way my hair looked the next morning at all.

I did this twice and my hair started feeling really dry. 45 minutes – 90 minutes is all you really need for Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay to do its job.

Aztec Healing Clay Before and After

You can view a video of my results with Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay HERE. This was when I was trying out the Max Hydration Method.

If you have any more questions about Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay, leave them in the comments section.

Abi is a curly hair expert who delved into the world of natural oils after severe hair loss issues. Through her research, study, and testing, she was able to regrow her bald spots & a healthy head of hair. She is the founder of Healthy Natural Hair Products & Ade Ori Hair Care, and the author of the highly-rated Healthy Hair Care Series. She continues to study hair science, Ayurveda, and natural and healthy solutions for hair and skin. Learn more about our Editorial Guidelines…