Calcium Carbonate
A mineral filler. It gives a matte feel, absorbs sebum and removes shine. Well tolerated.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Calcium carbonate (INCI Calcium Carbonate) is a mineral powder, chemically the same chalk and limestone. In cosmetics it works as a filler and absorbent: it soaks up sebum, gives a matte finish and cuts shine. You see it in powders, loose textures, toothpastes as a gentle abrasive, and in coverage or sun products. This is a functional ingredient, not a care active. It does not treat or feed the skin; its role is texture, mattifying and oil absorption. The effect is purely cosmetic and lasts until you wash it off. Used topically, calcium carbonate has no systemic relevance, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding without restriction. Tolerance is good. The irritation and allergy potential is low, which makes it suitable for sensitive skin. The powder is inert and most people show no reaction. On dry skin, strongly mattifying powders may feel drying on the surface, but that comes down to the full formula rather than the mineral itself.
Frequently asked questions
Is Calcium Carbonate safe during pregnancy?
Calcium Carbonate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Calcium Carbonate for?
Calcium Carbonate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Calcium Carbonate and what does it do in cosmetics?
A mineral filler.
What's the INCI name for Calcium Carbonate?
The INCI name is Calcium Carbonate. It may also appear as: Chalk.
See Calcium Carbonate in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Calcium Chloride, Calcium Citrate, Calcium Gluconate, Calcium Hydroxide, Ethyl Hexanediol, Olea Europaea Seed Powder, Polysorbate 60, Stearyl Stearate
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