Kaolin

Naturally occurring clay mineral famously used in cosmetics for its absorbent properties

Particularly popular in facial masks targeted at reducing skin’s surface oil

Also functions as an anticaking agent, bulking agent, and opacifying agent

Sometimes referred to as “China Clay”

Kaolin is a naturally occurring clay mineral famously used in cosmetics for its absorbent properties. It is particularly popular in facial masks targeted at reducing skin’s surface oil. While its absorbent properties are helpful for those with oily skin, it can be drying for other skin types (especially if used in very high amounts). To avoid this issue, some formulators pair kaolin with hydrating/soothing ingredients which work to offset some of its absorbency so skin benefits without feeling dry or tight.

Kaolin’s other reported cosmetic functions include as an anticaking agent, bulking agent, and opacifying agent.

Depending on how it’s supplied and what it’s formulated with, kaolin can also function as an abrasive agent. As a raw material, kaolin is a soft, white clay comprised predominantly of kaolinite, a hydrated aluminum silicate. According to the Personal Care Council, “Kaolin is extracted from kaolinized granite by washing it out with powerful and remote water hoses. The clay stream is then pumped to the separation plant where sand and mica are removed. The purified clay is filtered when wet and then dried. The very fine powder is formed by milling.”

Purified kaolin has a long history of safe use in cosmetics. Further supporting its safety, kaolin has been generally recognized as safe (also known as GRAS status) by the US FDA as a direct food additive.

Kaolin is also sometimes referred to as “China Clay.”

See: China Clay, Clay