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Cosmetics Ingredients
The material selection platform
Cosmetics Ingredients

CALCIUM CARBONATE

CAS Number 471-34-1
Chem/IUPAC Name: Calcium carbonate. CI 77220
EINECS/ELINCS No: 207-439-9
COSING REF No: 32314
CALCIUM CARBONATE
Calcium Carbonate is a naturally occurring mineral widely used in cosmetics and personal care products. It appears as a fine, white powder and has the chemical formula CaCO3. Calcium Carbonate is a great bulking agent and also functions as an absorbent, and opacifying agent in various cosmetic formulations. It helps to enhance the texture and thickness of creams, lotions, and powders, providing a smooth and silky feel. Additionally, Calcium Carbonate can act as a mild abrasive in toothpaste formulations, aiding in the removal of plaque and surface stains.

What is CALCIUM CARBONATE used for?

Calcium Carbonate finds several uses in the realm of cosmetics and personal care products.
  • Skin care: It works as a bulking agent or a texture enhancer in skin care formulations. It's fine powder form helps to improve the feel and spreadability of creams, lotions, and powders, resulting in a smoother and more luxurious application
  • Cosmetic products: It serves as an opacifying agent, helping to add opacity or matte finish to products like foundations, concealers, and powders. It can also act as a thickening agent, contributing to the viscosity and stability of various formulations
  • Hair care: It can be found in dry shampoos, volumizing powders, and styling products. It helps to absorb excess oil and impurities from the hair and scalp, providing a refreshed appearance. Furthermore, Calcium Carbonate can contribute to the volumizing effect of certain hair products, creating lift and body in fine or limp hair

Origin

Calcium Carbonate is primarily obtained from natural sources such as limestone, marble, or chalk. These minerals undergo a process called calcination, where they are heated to high temperatures to drive off impurities and carbon dioxide, leaving behind Calcium Oxide. Calcium Oxide is then reacted with water or carbon dioxide to form Calcium Carbonate.

What does CALCIUM CARBONATE do in a formulation?

  • Bulking
  • Opacifying

Safety profile

Calcium Carbonate is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products. It has a long history of safe use and is widely recognized as non-toxic and non-irritating. However, individuals with specific allergies or sensitivities to Calcium Carbonate should exercise caution and perform a patch test before extensive use.

CALCIUM CARBONATE Alternatives

Technical profile

Property Values
Melting Point 1339°C
pH 9.0-10.5
Solubility Sparingly soluble in water
11
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