Mud has been used for thousands of years to heal irritated skin and as a beauty aid, and mud packs are now some of the most popular cosmetic aids in use today. No wonder there’s a holiday dedicated to mud packs known as National Mud Pack Day.

This holiday is observed on September 30th every year and encourages everyone to apply one of these packs to their face to ease muscle tension, pull toxins from the skin, and boost the skin’s natural elasticity.

The History of the Mud Pack

It was the ancient Greeks and Romans who first saw the benefits of mud when applied to the skin. Both men and women would take mud baths to soothe irritated skin, pull out impurities from the skin, and even help heal minor wounds.

During the 16th century, mud bathing became more of an important practice, and the people who could afford it would be given mud baths under the careful eye of a physician. This practice wasn’t just used on humans, however. It was also used to help heal sick animals who were convalescing after an injury or an illness.

The practice of mud bathing continued through the 17th, 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries. The practice changed a little bit during the 20th century, however, and instead of just taking mud baths, some people began to use mud packs just on their faces. The practice has continued ever since.

Observing National Mud Pack Day

National Mud Pack Day is best observed by applying a mud mask to your face, or if you can afford it, by having one applied to your face at a local spa. While you’re celebrating this holiday, feel free to post to social media advocating for other people to do the same by using the hashtag #NationalMudPackDay.