The SYLT Journal
Journal
From Earth to Skin: Responsible Resource Use
We believe that great skincare begins with responsible sourcing. Our approach is rooted in respect for nature, for communities, and for the natural ingredients we use.
In the world of skincare, conversations often focus on results. SYLT goes deeper. We ask how the ingredients are sourced, and what impact they leave behind.
Our hero ingredient, Glacial Marine Clay, is tucked away at the base of a remote glacier in British Columbia. This clay is a natural powerhouse, negatively charged which allows it to pull impurities from the skin. It is also packed with over 50 minerals and marine nutrients, serving as a skin detoxifier from the earth.
This makes it a standout ingredient in Canadian skincare, particularly for those seeking gentle yet effective solutions for skin health.
How We Source Responsibly
Sourcing from nature comes with responsibility. That’s why we’ve built our process around sustainability and minimal environmental impact.
Rotational Harvesting: The clay we use is sourced from the base of a glacier. There are several different sites that are rotated to ensure only the deposits that have been fully replenished by the most recent melt are used.
Low-Impact Extraction: The clay is hand-harvested and solar-dried on Vancouver Island. No heavy machinery is used, minimizing carbon footprint while honouring traditional First Nations practices.
A Different Approach to Natural Resources
In regions like British Columbia and Alberta, natural resources play a major role in the economy. However, we believe the future lies in shifting from a “take-only” mindset to one of responsible stewardship. We see ourselves as caretakers, not just producers. Our goal is to create high-performance skincare products while maintaining harmony with the environment they come from.
SYLT is more than a skincare brand. It’s a commitment to doing things the right way.
We aren't just selling a face mask or a cleanser. We are sharing a piece of British Columbia that has been gathered with the Canadian values of integrity. It’s a resource used responsibly, so that the glacier can keep renewing itself for years to come.
Because true beauty isn’t just about results, it’s about responsibility.
Are Glacial Clay Products Good for Sensitive Skin?
Sensitive skin reacts easily to environmental stress, harsh ingredients, and overuse of active products. In fact, an estimated 50% to 71% of adults worldwide report experiencing some degree of skin sensitivity, with studies showing a rise over the past two decades.
Many people assume clay-based skincare products are too harsh or drying for sensitive skin. But the truth is clay has been used for centuries by Europeans, as a natural solution to rebalance the skin.
We understand those concerns. That’s why our formulations are developed thoughtfully and refined over years of testing. Every SYLT product is crafted with carefully selected, naturally derived key ingredients. Our formulas are cruelty-free and designed to be gentle, avoiding unnecessary additives that can trigger irritation.
Not all clay is the same. The hero ingredient in our products, Canadian Glacial Marine Clay, is rich in trace minerals, marine nutrients, and cationic charges. The combination helps draw out impurities while maintaining nourishment and balance.
Beyond glacial clay, we use botanical extracts, plant-based oils, charcoal, shea butter in our formulations – ingredients chosen to complement and support the skin barrier. We believe skincare should support the skin’s natural function, not overwhelm it.
That said, even with gentle, natural formulations, every individual’s skin is unique. We always recommend performing a patch test before introducing a new product, particularly for those with highly sensitive and allergy-prone skin. Apply a small amount to the inner arm and wait 24 hours to ensure compatibility.
Sensitive skin doesn’t mean you have to avoid clay products. With the right source and formulation, they can be both purifying and comforting.
Elevated by Nature and Sustainably Sourced
As global demand for natural resources grows, we believe in choosing ingredients that are sourced with care and respect for the environment. While British Columbia may not have oil, it holds something equally valuable - mineral-rich deposits formed by ancient glaciers in remote coastal regions. Beneath active glaciers along the west coast, glacial clay is carried through river systems and naturally deposited on the mineral claims, where our Glacial Marine Clay is sourced.
We partner with an experienced operator and processor who share our values of environmental stewardship. This Glacial Marine Clay is hand-harvested under a federal mining permit, without any use of machinery. Through harvest rotation practices, the clay is continuously replenished by glacial run-off, making it a truly sustainable and renewable resource. It maintains a carbon-neutral footprint and is COSMOS-approved.
After harvesting, the clay is transported to greenhouses for solar drying, again without machinery. It is then gently crushed and screened into an ultra-fine powder with clay particles smaller than 20 microns, soft and light, like icing sugar.
Laboratory analysis confirms the presence of over 50 trace minerals and elements, including magnesium, manganese, potassium, and calcium that are essential for maintaining healthy skin. What sets this clay apart is its strong cation exchange capacity and neutral pH, enabling it to help deliver beneficial minerals while drawing out impurities, excess oil, and bacteria from the pores.
With our SYLT products you can experience the benefits of this natural, sustainable ingredient gifted by the earth.
Rethinking Clay Masks: Common Myths Explained
There are many misconceptions surrounding clay masks, and we believe it’s time to clarify the science, sourcing, and real experience behind clay-based skincare.Misconception #1: Clay masks are always messy and hard to applyThis is one of the biggest barriers for consumers. In reality, the texture depends on the quality and fineness of the clay. Our ultra-fine Glacial Marine Clay creates a smooth, easy-to-apply formula that glides on and rinses off effortlessly.Misconception #2: All clay masks work the sameThey don’t. Clays vary in mineral content, purity, particle size, and ionic activity. Glacial Marine Clay hand-harvested underneath an active glacier in Canada contains over 50 trace minerals and marine micro-nutrients. Naturally charged through hydrolysis, it binds impurities effectively without stripping the skin, while still delivering essential nourishment.Misconception #3: Clay masks are only for oily skinWhen formulated properly, clay masks can soothe sensitive skin, support hydration, and promote overall skin health. SYLT Glacial Clay Face Mask is formulated with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and botanical extracts for a refreshed, balanced complexion without over-drying it. This holds true even for our raw Glacial Marine Clay powder, which many users find surprisingly gentle and balancing rather than drying.Misconception #4: Clay masks can’t feel luxuriousWith the right formulation, they absolutely can. A silky texture, gentle essential oil scent, and easy rinse-off turn clay masking into a calming wellness ritual, rather than a chore.For centuries, Europeans have used clay to detoxify the skin and promote healing. In Canada, indigenous communities have long understood the healing power of Glacial Marine Clay. We honor this knowledge by using this sustainably hand-harvested and solar-dried clay in every SYLT product we create.We are redefining clay skincare — clean, effective, sustainable, and beautifully simple.
Embracing Nature: The Joy of Playing with Mud
There’s something magical about being outdoors! Whether it’s the fresh air, the rustle of leaves, the smell of rain or the feel of the earth beneath your feet. At SYLT, we believe in celebrating this connection to nature, especially through the incredible properties of Canadian glacial clay.
The Glacial Marine Clay we have adopted in SYLT products is naturally replenished through glacial run off, loaded with minerals and nutrients. Used traditionally by First Nations communities, this healing clay resource reflects the power and resilience of the natural world.
SYLT products are crafted with deep respect for this heritage and environment. Each application is a reminder to embrace the beauty around us, to connect with the earth, and to honor the gifts it provides.
Whether embracing the outdoors or enjoying a quiet skincare ritual, we believe joy can often be found in reconnecting with the earth itself.
Essential Skincare Routine for Healthy, Radiant Skin
A well-rounded skincare routine is key to maintaining glowing, youthful skin. Follow these steps to keep your skin looking its best.
1. Cleanse – Twice Daily (AM & PM)
Cleansing is the foundation of any skincare routine. By washing your face both in the morning and at night, you remove oil, dirt, and other debris that can clog pores and cause dullness. Make sure to use a gentle cleanser suited to your skin type.
2. Moisturize – Twice Daily (AM & PM)
After cleansing, it’s essential to lock in moisture. Use a serum followed by a good moisturizer, applying to both your face and neck. This step keeps your skin hydrated and helps maintain elasticity.
3. Mask – Once or Twice Weekly
Masks can provide your skin with the extra treatment it needs. Tailor your mask use based on your skin type:
For Dry Skin
A weekly mask is usually sufficient to hydrate and nourish.
For Oily Skin
Use a mask twice a week to help manage oil and reduce shine.
Benefits of using a mask include:
Natural, gentle exfoliation
Deep cleansing
Improved circulation
Unclogged and reduced pores
Addressing acne and dark spots
Hydrating and firming the skin
Achieving a smooth, radiant complexion
4. Protect – Daily SPF Use
Protection from the sun is a must. Apply SPF daily, even on cloudy days, to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. This step is crucial in preventing premature aging and sun damage.
5. Body Care – Moisturize Daily
Your face isn’t the only area that deserves attention. Keep your body moisturized every day to ensure soft, youthful-looking skin all over.
General Skincare Tips
To get the most out of your routine, keep these helpful tips in mind:
Patch Test New Products
Always test new products on a small area of skin before applying them fully. This helps you avoid allergic reactions and irritation.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water supports skin hydration from the inside out. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water daily.
Eat a Healthy Diet
A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals contributes to overall skin health. Include plenty of fruits and vegetables to nourish your skin.
Get Enough Sleep
Sleep is essential for skin regeneration. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to allow your skin to recover and renew itself.
Nature’s Remedy: Rebalancing Skin and Mind with Glacial Marine Clay
Our skin is more than just our outermost layer; it’s the body’s largest organ, a dynamic barrier, and a vital component of our overall health. While often associated with beauty, the true importance of skin health extends far deeper, playing a crucial role in our general wellness. Increasingly, research is highlighting the intricate connections between our skin and our internal systems, even suggesting in a recent study published in the Journal of Dermatology a potential link between the skin microbiome and psychological health.
At SYLT, Glacial Marine Clay isn’t just a feature, but the foundation of everything. Every single SYLT product is infused with this rare clay packed with over 50 trace minerals and marine nutrients. As glacial runoff carries these particles, they are naturally energized through hydrolysis, gaining a powerful cationic (negative electrical) charge. This unique charge is key to its benefits, as it attracts positively charged bacteria, aiding in deep cleansing and detoxification.
Furthermore, our clay is unique for its exceptionally low heavy metal counts, meeting all government regulations. The clay particles are processed into an ultra-fine powder (7-20 microns), allowing for maximum penetration and absorption to a wide surface area of the skin. We don’t add the clay as an afterthought. We start with it, because we believe health balance begins with nature’s most healing elements.
Nourishing your skin with nature’s purest ingredients is a powerful way to enhance your overall wellness. Explore SYLT’s range of clay-infused skincare products, and discover the difference that conscious, nature-inspired skincare can make for your body and mind.
Canadian Glacial Clay Benefits
Canadian Glacial Marine Clay is a natural way to cleanse, purify, exfoliate, and heal your skin without the use of harsh chemicals.
Benefits of using Canadian Glacial Clay
Provides Natural Gentle Exfoliation;
Offers Gentle Cleansing;
Increases Circulation and Oxygenation;
Brightens the Complexion;
Unclogs and Shrinks Skin Pores;
Aids in Hydration;
Regulates Sebum Production Breakouts and Excess Shine;
Results in Soft, Smooth, Radiant Skin;
Heals and Repairs Dry Skin;
Reduces the Signs of Aging and Wrinkles.
Clay therapy has been used in Europe to help with a variety of ailments related to the musculoskeletal system, including skin issues, arthritis, sports injuries, and advanced joint pain. In North America, clay is used extensively in cosmetic and wellness products. It is believed that the beneficial microorganisms in the clay produce substances that have a proven anti-inflammatory effect on the body.
Clay Applications
Facials
Body Treatments
Nails
Hands and Feet
Hair/Scalp – Add Clay Powder to your Shampoo or Conditioner
Healing from the Ground up
The inspiration behind SYLT Clay Company began with a collaboration between Dr. Syl Corbett and a team of dedicated formulators determined to harness the power of Canadian glacial clay to support athletic recovery.
Working with professional athletes across hockey, football, triathlon, and running, Dr. Syl explored how mineral-rich glacial clay could be incorporated into high-performance formulations. By optimizing its bioavailability, she helped develop Rock On Athletic Balm that is now used by athletes in the NHL and NBA and endorsed by physiotherapists, chiropractors, and massage therapists as a trusted muscle recovery product.
The broader potential of Canadian glacial clay became clear. Beyond athletic recovery, this mineral-rich sea silt, hand-harvested from the pristine marine coastline of British Columbia, offers benefits for skin health and overall self-care.
SYLT was created to bring this natural resource into everyday skincare, turning this healing clay into effective, accessible products that can easily blend into daily routines. We believe that the closer we connect to nature, the better off we will be. By using natural ingredients derived from the earth and harvested responsibly, we promote thoughtful self-care and a deeper connection between skin, body, and well-being, from the ground up.