Kaolin

• Catalog Number: ACM1332587
• Product Name: Kaolin
• CAS: 1332-58-7
• Category: Pigments
• Description: USP grade, pure natural mineral (anhydrous aluminum silicate) composed of kaolinite with low iron content (synonyms: china clay, nacrite, kaolinite, calcined kaolin, metakaolin). Consists of 44-46% silicon dioxide, 37-40% aluminum oxide, 0.2-0.4% magnesium oxide, 0.03-0.06% calcium oxide, 0.2-0.4% ferric oxide, and 1.5-2.0% titanium dioxide. Average particle size 1.0-1.4 micrometers.
• Synonyms: Bolus, Aluminum silicate hydroxide, Hydrated aluminum silicate, Kaolin
• Molecular Weight: 258.160437
• Molecular Formula: ~Al2Si2O5(OH)4
• Density: 1.8-2.6 g/cm³
• Solubility: Water-insoluble
• Appearance: Off-white fine powder, odorless
• Application: Face powders, face masks, creams and lotions for oily skin, bath powders, foundation cake makeup, dry rouges, deodorants, soaps.
• Storage: Store in a closed container at a dry place at room temperature
• Composition: Kaolin
• EC Number: 310-194-1
• Features And Benefits: Great covering ability and anti-caking propertiesAble to absorb fats from the skinImproves the appearance of enlarged poresHelps clear up breakouts and blemished skinHas soothing properties (ideal for sensitive skin)
• HS Code: 2507000000
• MDL Number: MFCD00062311
• Packaging: 1, 2.5 kg in poly bottle 500 g in poly bottle
• pH: 3.5-5.0 (20% in water)

Custom Q&A

What are the absorbent properties of kaolin useful for in cosmetics?

Kaolin's absorbent properties are useful for reducing skin's surface oil in facial masks.

How can kaolin be drying for some skin types?

Kaolin can be drying for some skin types, especially if used in very high amounts.

How can formulators prevent the dryness caused by kaolin in cosmetics?

Formulators can pair kaolin with hydrating/soothing ingredients to offset its absorbency and prevent dryness.

What are some cosmetic functions of kaolin?

Kaolin can function as an anticaking agent, bulking agent, opacifying agent, and abrasive agent.

What is kaolin primarily composed of?

Kaolin is primarily composed of kaolinite, a hydrated aluminum silicate.

How is kaolin extracted and processed?

Kaolin is extracted from kaolinized granite by washing it out with powerful water hoses. It is then pumped to a separation plant where sand and mica are removed. The purified clay is filtered when wet and then dried into a fine powder through milling.

How is the safety of kaolin in cosmetics supported?

Kaolin has a long history of safe use in cosmetics and is generally recognized as safe by the US FDA as a direct food additive.

What are the benefits of kaolin in skin care?

In skin care, kaolin can draw excess oil from the skin, exfoliate it, and leave the surface clean and smooth. It also has soothing properties to reduce redness and irritation.

What does kaolin do in hair care?

In hair care, kaolin helps detoxify the scalp by lifting dirt and impurities, leaving it clean and healthy. It also provides necessary minerals to the scalp.

What is the role of kaolin in cosmetics products?

Kaolin is present in cosmetics to give them a matte appearance, prevent shine, increase the shelf life of products as a preservative, and help makeup stay intact under humid conditions and perspiration.