Clay types differ in mineral composition, particle size, and absorption strength. Green clay (illite/montmorillonite) has the highest absorption and is best for oily, congested, thick skin — it can feel very tight and drying. White clay (kaolin) is the gentlest, with low absorption, suited for very dry or fragile skin but less effective on excess sebum. Pink clay is typically a blend of red and white, offering a middle ground.
Red clay sits between green and white: it absorbs surface oil and impurities enough to leave skin feeling clean and smooth, but its finer particle structure and specific mineral profile (iron and copper oxides) give a softer finish without the "mask-like" tightness. This makes it the practical choice when you want a classic mineral mask experience but your skin reacts to stronger clays with redness, stinging, or barrier disruption. It is also the traditional pick for skin that looks tired, uneven, or shows fine capillaries, because the mineral content supports a more even tone visually without promising medical correction.
If you have combination skin, you can multi-mask: apply red clay on cheeks and sensitive zones, and a stronger clay only on the T-zone. Always listen to your skin's feedback — the right clay leaves skin comfortable, not squeaky.