Rhassoul (also spelled ghassoul) is a natural clay found only in Morocco's Atlas Mountains. Moroccan women have used it in the hammam for centuries to wash skin and hair, long before shampoo existed. It's gentle enough for every week and powerful enough to leave skin clear and hair full of volume.
What is rhassoul clay?
Rhassoul is a mineral-rich lava clay. Mixed with water it turns into a silky paste that cleanses by absorbing oil and impurities rather than by foaming. That's why it leaves skin and hair feeling clean but not stripped. Our Rhassoul Clay Powder is 100% Moroccan lava clay with nothing added.
Rhassoul clay benefits for skin
- Cleanses deeply: draws out excess oil and impurities from the pores.
- Softens: skin feels smooth and silky after rinsing.
- Refines: pores look clearer and skin texture looks more even.
- Suits most skin types: gentle enough for normal and combination skin, and balancing for oily skin.
Rhassoul clay benefits for hair
- A natural hair wash: cleanses the scalp and removes build-up without harsh detergents.
- Volume: hair looks fuller and feels lighter.
- Softness and shine: especially when mixed with a few drops of argan oil.
How to use rhassoul clay as a face mask
- Mix 1 tablespoon of rhassoul with warm water or Orange Blossom Water until creamy. Adjust the liquid until you reach the consistency you like.
- Add 2–3 drops of Argan Oil or Prickly Pear Seed Oil for extra comfort.
- Apply to clean skin, avoiding the eyes.
- Leave for 5–10 minutes. Don't let it dry completely.
- Rinse with warm water and follow with your favourite oil.
How to use rhassoul clay on your hair
- Mix 2–3 tablespoons of rhassoul with warm water into a smooth, runny paste. Add a few drops of argan oil.
- Apply to damp hair, starting at the scalp and working to the ends.
- Massage gently and leave for 5–10 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water. Most people don't need shampoo afterwards.
For stronger hair, alternate rhassoul with Sidr Powder: rhassoul for detox and volume, sidr for strength. Read our guide to sidr powder for hair.
How to use rhassoul on your body
In the hammam, rhassoul comes after black soap and the Kessa Glove. Smooth it over freshly exfoliated skin, leave for 5 minutes and rinse for skin that feels incredibly soft. See our full hammam at home guide.
How often should you use rhassoul?
Once or twice a week for skin, and once a week as a hair wash.
Frequently asked questions
Is rhassoul the same as ghassoul?
Yes. Rhassoul and ghassoul are two spellings of the same Moroccan clay.
Can I use rhassoul clay instead of shampoo?
Many people use rhassoul as a natural hair wash once a week. It cleanses the scalp without foaming and leaves hair soft and full.
Can I use rhassoul on oily skin?
Yes. Rhassoul absorbs excess oil, so it's a great weekly mask for oily and combination skin.
What's the difference between rhassoul and Ranila?
Ranila is rhassoul blended with blue nila, so it cleanses and brightens in one mask. Choose Ranila if you also want a brighter, more even-looking tone.
Shop the ritual
- Rhassoul Clay Powder
- Ranila Powder Mask, rhassoul with nila
- Hair Care Ritual Set with rhassoul, sidr, argan oil and orange blossom water
Safety
Patch Test Recommended: Before using the product, we recommend carrying out a patch test on a small area of skin 24 hours prior to full application. Discontinue use if any irritation occurs.
Upon receiving your product, please read the label and instructions carefully before use for important safety and caution information.