Calcium Silicate
Mineral anti-caking agent and absorbent. Keeps powders free-flowing, absorbs excess oil in formulas for oily skin and makeup. Inert on skin, does not enter systemic circulation.
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 Silicate is an inorganic compound, a fine white powder. Used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food as an anticaking agent, absorbent, and carrier. Mechanism. A high specific surface area (about 100 m²/g) and porous structure let calcium silicate absorb oil, moisture, and aromatic compounds. On skin it works as a mattifying and absorbing component: pulls sebum from the surface and keeps skin dry without a tight feel. In powders and dry products it prevents caking and keeps free flow. Where applied. Colour cosmetics (powders, blushes, eyeshadows, foundations), oily and combination skin products, deodorant sticks, dry shampoos, antiperspirant creams, mattifying setting sprays. Concentration 1–15%. In Spain in Sephora Collection, Mercadona Deliplus, Lancôme powders. Safety. CIR confirmed cosmetic safety in 2014. EFSA approved as food additive E552. Inert on skin – no systemic absorption, the molecule is too large. Non-comedogenic. Note on respiratory exposure. Inhaling powdered silicates at high concentrations in cement-industry workers is linked to silicosis – an occupational lung disease. In cosmetic powders particles are larger and concentrations lower – risk is minimal, but with daily dry-shampoo use it is wise not to inhale the aerosol and to spray at a distance. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Used without restriction. Functional role. An auxiliary anticaking agent and absorbent, not a cosmetic active. No standalone skin activity.
Frequently asked questions
Is Calcium Silicate safe during pregnancy?
Calcium Silicate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Calcium Silicate for?
Calcium Silicate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Calcium Silicate and what does it do in cosmetics?
Mineral anti-caking agent and absorbent.
What's the INCI name for Calcium Silicate?
The INCI name is Calcium Silicate.
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Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Calcium Sodium Borosilicate, Calcium Sulfate, Calcium Sulfate Hydrate, Camphor, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Oryza Sativa Cera, Potassium Benzoate, Sucrose Laurate
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