Physico-chemical properties of clayey soils used traditionally for cosmetics in Eastern Cape, South Africa

2 /g and CEC values ranged from 0.5 to 54.5 meq/100 g. From the colours of the samples, they are inferred to contain hematite and goethite which are present in many skin sunscreen and beauty products. The percentage of clay size particles in the samples were similar to those generally used in Thermal Centres. Their high CEC values may ensure skin cleansing through ion exchange between the clay mixtures and the skin. The physico-chemical properties can thus influence cleansing, sunscreen and body beautification roles for which the clayey soils are used.