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The material selection platform
Cosmetics Ingredients
The material selection platform
Cosmetics Ingredients

KAOLIN

CAS Number 1332-58-7
Chem/IUPAC Name: Kaolin (CI 77004)
EINECS/ELINCS No: 310-194-1
COSING REF No: 34795
KAOLIN
Kaolin, also known as china clay or white clay, is a magical ingredient in skin care products. It is used to cleanse the skin because of its ability to absorb oil and make the surface smooth. Kaolin clay is also a gentle ingredient that can be used as an exfoliant. Additionally, it manages dry skin and prevents acne. Kaolin ingredient appears as a white to yellowish powder that is odorless and grayish in color. The chemical formula of Kaolin is Al2O3.2SiO2.2H2O.

What is KAOLIN used for?

The many benefits that kaolin clay offers make it a super ingredient in the world of skin care. However, it is also present in hair care and cosmetics.
  • Skin care: It has the ability to draw excess oil from the skin and exfoliate it to leave the surface clean and smooth. It is thus quite popular in skin care products like face masks. Kaolin clay also has soothing properties to reduce redness and irritation
  • Hair care: It helps in detoxifying the scalp. This ingredient is capable of lifting dirt and impurities from the scalp to leave it clean and healthy. Additionally, kaolin has the benefit of providing the necessary minerals naturally that the scalp may have been otherwise lacking
  • Cosmetics products: It is also present in cosmetics to give them a matte appearance and prevent unnecessary shine. Moreover, it allows the makeup to stay put longer as it can withstand humid conditions and perspiration. Kaolin clay is also a preservative that increases the shelf life of cosmetic products

Origin

Kaolin is a natural ingredient that occurs in the mineral, kaolinite. It is in the Kaoling hill where this mineral was first mined and hence the name. While Kaolinite is a white mineral, there are other minerals that are added to it in order to produce the Kaolin clay. Therefore, Kaolin ranges from white to yellowish in color.

What does KAOLIN do in a formulation?

  • Opacifying
  • Preservative
  • Soothing

Safety profile

Kaolin is safe for use in cosmetics and personal care as it is completely natural. However, higher concentrations of this ingredient may cause dryness. Kaolin works best on oily skin types. However, a patch test should be done before full usage, especially on dry skin. Kaolin is also a great ingredient for treating acne as it has antibacterial properties.

KAOLIN Alternatives

Technical profile

Property Values
Melting Point 1750°C
pH 4.6
Solubility Insoluble in water
85
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