Silica
Silicon dioxide (amorphous silica). EU CosIng lists it as an abrasive, absorbent, anticaking, bulking, opacifying and viscosity-controlling agent. Soaks up sebum and gives the skin a smooth matte finish.
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
- Oily, Combination
About this ingredient
Silica (Silicon Dioxide) is mineral silicon dioxide. In cosmetics – amorphous spherical particles of micron and nano size. Acts as an absorbent (soaks up sebum), mattifying agent (scatters light on skin, masks pores and shine), and as a functional anti-caking ingredient in powder products. Where applied. Mattifying primers, foundations, loose powders, brow and lash tints, oily-skin products, deodorants, scrubs (as a mild abrasive), toothpastes. In Spanish brands – in Sesderma matifying, Babé Pediatric, Bioderma Sebium for oily skin. Concentration 0.5-30% depending on product type. Nano-size controversy. Some silica in mattifying formulas is nano-fraction (<100 nm). EU Regulation EC 1223/2009 requires '[nano]' labeling for nano-sized silica. In its 2015 opinion (SCCS/1545/15), the SCCS could not conclude on the safety of nano-form silica: the data were insufficient for a firm conclusion either way. In October 2025 the European Commission asked the SCCS for a new opinion on these nano forms. Aerosol forms and spray products with nano-silica are not recommended due to theoretical inhalation risk. Crystalline form controversy. Crystalline silicon dioxide (quartz, cristobalite) is a known carcinogen on long-term inhalation (lung silicosis in industrial workers, miners). In cosmetics – ONLY amorphous silica without crystalline structure. No carcinogenic risk. EU CosIng permits use. Safety. CIR confirmed amorphous silica safety in cosmetics (Final Report 2009, 2017 amendments). Hypoallergenic, non-irritating, non-comedogenic. Suitable for sensitive, acne-prone, atopic skin. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. A mineral ingredient, no biological skin activity, no systemic absorption. No restrictions in any product.
Frequently asked questions
Is Silica safe during pregnancy?
Silica is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Silica for?
Silica suits: oily, combination.
What is Silica and what does it do in cosmetics?
Silicon dioxide (amorphous silica).
What's the INCI name for Silica?
The INCI name is Silica. It may also appear as: Silicon Dioxide.
See Silica 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
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