China Clay

Best known as kaolin, China clay 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 China clay with hydrating/soothing ingredients which work to offset some of its absorbency so skin benefits without feeling dry or tight. China clay’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, China clay can also function as an abrasive agent. As a raw material, China clay 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 China clay (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.

Related ingredients: Kaolin Clay