Thermal mud is a mineral-rich, volcanic origin mud that is obtained from regions of high thermal activity. While different regional mud varieties may differ in color, mineral content, smell, trace element content and so on, they all have deep cleansing, exfoliating, moisturizing and regenerative properties. For this reason, this healing mud is used in many beauty and therapeutic treatments. Various skin care products like thermal mud masks, thermal mud soap and thermal skin mud lotion are made from the mud; these can be purchased from spas, health centers and online beauty care retailers.
The basic healing properties of thermal mud are due to its high content of minerals and trace elements. The minerals present in the mud include alumina, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, silica, sodium, sulfur and titanium, and some of the trace elements are cobalt, copper, manganese, molybdenum, selenium and zinc. Aluminum silicate, sulfur and zinc are especially important for treating eczema, acne, ulcers, tumors, burns, wounds and a variety of other skin-related complaints.
Mud is applied to the affected skin areas, left on for several minutes and then washed off. The antiseptic and antibiotic properties of thermal mud soothe inflammations, fight off infections caused by bacteria and other pathogens, eliminate toxins, and enhance the immune system. The heat generated by the mud application improves the skin circulation, and the silicon in the mud facilitates collagen fiber formation. This, in turn, assists with the regeneration of skin tissue, and the skin is able to heal with minimum or no scarring.
Skin mud facials are excellent for cleaning and nourishing the skin. Pumice particles in the mud work as exfoliating agents, cleaning out the skin pores and get rid of dead skin cells. The mud also absorbs excess oily secretions from the skin. The moisturizing properties of thermal skin mud can keep the skin looking well-nourished, radiant and supple.
Using thermal skin mud regularly can help maintain the skin in a good condition. The mud is able to negate the effects of free radicals and slow down the skin cell oxidation process. This slows skin aging and wrinkle formation.
People with muscular aches and pains can often obtain relief by going for a thermal mud massage. The mud has a sedative warmth that relaxes muscles and enables users to feel rested and refreshed. It is a good idea to get a massage right before bedtime for best results.