Can You Use Matte Clay Everyday?

What is Matte Clay?

Matte clay is a hair styling product used to add texture and shape to hair while maintaining a matte, non-shiny finish. Unlike traditional hair gels and waxes which can leave hair looking wet or greasy, matte clay provides a natural, soft texture and matte look (1).

The main difference between matte clay and other hair styling products is that it contains more natural clays and waxes rather than synthetic ingredients. This allows matte clay to add texture and definition while absorbing oils and reducing shine. Traditional pomades and gels use synthetic polymers and plastics to achieve their hold, which can cause buildup and a sticky, stiff feeling in hair over time (2).

Benefits of Using Matte Clay

Matte clay offers several benefits that make it a popular choice for styling men’s hair. The key advantages of using matte clay include:

Gives texture and volume – Matte clays contain ingredients like beeswax and kaolin clay that help add texture and lift to hair. This allows you to achieve more voluminous hairstyles.¹

Creates a natural, messy look – Matte clay provides a pliable hold that can be worked through hair to create undone, natural styles. The finish has movement rather than stiffness.¹

Provides a matte finish – As the name suggests, matte clay delivers a non-shiny, matte finish to hair. This gives off an understated, modern look compared to products with high shine or gloss.

Drawbacks of Daily Matte Clay Use

Using matte clay on a daily basis can have some drawbacks to be aware of, especially if it is overused or not washed out properly. Some potential downsides include:

Matte clay can dry out hair and scalp if used too often. The clays contain ingredients like bentonite and kaolin that can absorb oils and moisture from the hair shaft and scalp. Using them daily without properly hydrating hair in between can lead to dryness and irritation.

Product buildup is another issue with daily matte clay use. As the clays contain waxes, oils, and polymers that help texturize and hold the style, these ingredients can build up on the hair over time if not washed out thoroughly. This buildup can make hair feel heavy, greasy, and limp.

Overuse of matte clays may also lead to potential hair damage over time. Rubbing and manipulating the hair repeatedly with clays on a daily basis can stress and weaken the hair. Some ingredients may also be drying or damaging with excessive use. This could lead to issues like breakage, split ends, or hair loss if not careful.

To avoid these drawbacks, it’s generally recommended to use matte clay no more than every other day or a few times a week. Proper hair washing and conditioning is important as well to remove buildup and keep hair healthy. Moderation is key when it comes to daily styling products.

Source: https://www.reddit.com/r/Pomade/comments/ktndi6/does_hairclay_lead_to_hairlossdamage/

How Often to Use Matte Clay

Most experts recommend using matte clay a maximum of 3-4 times per week (source 1). Using matte clay every day can lead to product buildup and dryness. The alkaline pH levels found in most matte clays can be harsh on the hair and scalp if used too frequently.

Signs your hair needs a break from matte clay include:
– Increased dryness
– Lack of shine
– Brittle or damaged ends
– Flaky scalp

– Decreased volume
– Limp, lifeless hair
– Increased greasiness or oiliness

Give your hair a rest by using matte clay no more than every other day. Rotate with lighter styling products like sea salt spray or mousse on off days. Also, be sure to use a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove buildup. Deep condition treatments can also help replenish moisture and restore hair health.

Choosing the Right Matte Clay

When choosing a matte clay for your hair, it’s important to consider the ingredients and how they work with your specific hair type and styling needs. Some key ingredients to look for include:

• Beeswax – natural ingredient that provides light hold and control
• Kaolin clay – absorbs oils and gives texture
• Bentonite clay – adds volume and thickening effects
• Natural oils – provide hydration and conditioning, such as argan, coconut, or olive oils

The clay’s formula and ingredients will determine the level of hold, texture, and finish. For fine hair, look for lightweight clays with more natural oils and less beeswax, which can weigh hair down. Thick, coarse hair benefits from clays with stronger holding power from more beeswax or clay. If your hair is dry, seek out nourishing oils. Oily hair types should choose clays with kaolin or bentonite clay as the main ingredients.

Test out small amounts of different clays to see how your hair responds. Most clays can work for various hair types, but the ingredient ratios make a difference. With the right matte clay that complements your hair’s needs, you can achieve touchable texture and shape for your desired style.

Applying Matte Clay

When applying matte clay, start with a small amount, about the size of a pea. You can always add more if needed. Rub the clay thoroughly between your palms to warm it up before applying. This helps distribute the product evenly and prevents clumping.

Apply matte clay to dry or towel dried hair for best results. Work the product through damp hair from roots to ends. Use your fingers to spread and massage the clay into the hair to coat each strand. Focus on the areas you want to style or control, like the fringe or ends.

Matte clay lets you create a range of textured styles. For a messy look, scrunch clay into the ends using an upward motion. Or sweep fringe or strands away from the face for a sleek style. Shape and define curls by rubbing clay between your palms then scrunching into curls in sections.[1] Layer the product and reapply as needed to build hold and add definition.

Washing Out Matte Clay

It’s important not to over-wash your hair when using matte clay regularly. You generally only need to wash your hair 2-3 times per week to remove product buildup. Washing too frequently can strip your hair and scalp of natural oils. When washing, focus shampoo mainly on the roots and rinse thoroughly.

As for the best shampoos, look for those labeled “clarifying” or “deep cleansing.” These are formulated to cut through oil, dirt, and product residue without being overly harsh. Some popular options include Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo, Klorane Clarifying Shampoo, and Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two. Rotate between a couple of these each wash to prevent buildup. And always finish with a moisturizing conditioner.

Matte Clay Alternatives

While matte clay can provide a great textured, natural look, using it every day may lead to dryness and damage. Here are some alternatives to consider using in place of matte clay:

Sea salt sprays like Oasis or Grim Grease Matte Blend give texture and volume without as much grip or dryness as matte clay. The sea salt helps add body while keeping hair touchable and flexible.

Natural pomades like Honor Initiative Clay Pomade contain oils that moisturize hair even as they style. Pomades wash out easily with shampoo.

Using pre-styling products like leave-in conditioners or oils before matte clay can help counteract its drying effects. Apply sparingly and focus mostly on the mid-lengths and ends.

Alternating between matte clay and these other volumizing, texturizing products gives hair a break. Hair stays flexible and retains moisture instead of becoming brittle from daily clay use.

Other Tips for Matte Clay Use

To protect your hair from potential damage with daily matte clay use, focus on hydration and moisture.

Using a good conditioner and doing occasional deep conditioning treatments can help replenish moisture that may be lost from frequent styling. Consider using a leave-in conditioner before applying matte clay as well. Limit heat styling when relying on matte clays regularly.

Also, be sure to thoroughly wash matte clay out of your hair with a clarifying shampoo once a week or so. Residual buildup can cause dryness or irritation over time.

When applying matte clay, use only the amount needed and distribute it evenly throughout your hair. Using too much or uneven application can lead to brittle strands. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.

Avoid layering multiple hold products like gels and sprays along with matte clay, as this can be drying. Stick to one styler at a time.

Give your hair a break from any product on occasion. Letting it rest in its natural state prevents over-styling.

Check the ingredients on your matte clay and select ones free of alcohol, parabens, and sulfates when possible. Harsher chemicals can compromise hair health with daily use.

Be gentle when working matte clay through your hair and styling it. Excessive pulling or friction can cause breakage of fragile strands.

Lastly, adjust frequency of use if your hair seems dry or damaged. While matte clays can be used daily for some, taking occasional days off may be better for others.

The Bottom Line

Overall, you can use matte clay in your daily hair routine, but there are some best practices to follow. Matte clay is very versatile for achieving different hairstyles and providing texture and hold. However, using it too frequently can lead to product buildup and dryness. The key is moderation – using matte clay every other day or a few times a week allows you to style your hair while giving it breaks to recover. In addition, always wash matte clay out thoroughly with shampoo and use a good conditioner. Alternating with other stylers like sea salt spray or pomade can also help. With the right balance, matte clay can be an easy, effective daily option for natural, textured hairstyles.

Here’s a summary of the best practices for daily matte clay use:

• Use a pea-sized amount and really work it into your hands before application
• Focus on your ends and avoid putting it directly on your roots or scalp
• Style your hair as desired – matte clay works well for messy, tousled looks
• Shampoo thoroughly to wash out all traces of product
• Use a moisturizing conditioner and/or hair mask 1-2 times per week
• Give your hair a break by skipping the matte clay 1-2 days a week
• Alternate using matte clay with other stylers like pomade or sea salt spray
• Choose an organic, high quality matte clay free of parabens and alcohol

If you follow these tips, you can easily use matte clay daily without any damage to your hair. Focus on keeping your hair healthy, washing out all traces of product, and not overusing any one styler.