ALUMINUM SILICATE
Overview
ALUMINUM SILICATE is a cosmetic ingredient primarily used for ABRASIVE. It is commonly found in various cosmetic formulations and serves important functions in personal care products.
Also known as: Kaolin, China Clay, Aluminum silicate clay, Kaolinite
Key Benefits
Studies suggest aluminum silicate may help absorb excess sebum and mattify the skin surface. As a kaolin-type clay, it may help reduce the appearance of enlarged pores.
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Inert mineral used as absorbent in powder cosmetics; no comedogenic potential reported.
Source: CIR Safety Assessment (2019)
Irritancy Rating
Non-irritating at typical cosmetic use concentrations.
Source: CIR Safety Assessment (2019)
Typical Use Concentration
Range
1β30%
Optimal
5β20%
Higher concentrations used in clay masks; lower concentrations in powders and foundations.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Use With Caution
Generally non-irritating. Best suited for oily and combination skin types.
Commonly Found In
Global Regulation Summary
Overview of current status across major international markets.
Detailed Regional Status
| Region | Status | Max Conc. | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πͺπΊ EU | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| πΊπΈ USA | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π―π΅ Japan | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π°π· Korea | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Banned | - | Follows EU regulations (IV/119) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
Allowed in EU, US, and Japan as an inert mineral. The UK restriction (IV/119) appears to apply to a specific colorant usage form rather than the functional mineral use. CIR has assessed aluminum silicate as generally safe.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in UK but allowed in EU, USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 9 ingredients in the ABRASIVE category. 100% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Found naturally as various clay minerals including kaolinite, feldspar, and zeolites. Abundant in the Earth's crust as a major component of many rocks and soils worldwide.
π How It's Made
Mined from natural deposits and processed (washed, ground, and purified). Synthetic forms are produced by heating aluminum hydroxide with silica at high temperatures.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Used in cosmetic products primarily for abrasive, absorbent, anticaking, bulking, colorant, opacifying.
π¬ Other Applications
Used in ceramics and pottery, cement production, water purification, cat litter, insulation materials, glass manufacturing, and as a catalyst in petroleum refining.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ Ancient Egyptians used aluminum silicate clays to make the world's earliest ceramics and pottery over 5,000 years ago
- β’ The specific type of aluminum silicate determines whether you get porcelain, brick, or cement
- β’ Zeolites (a form of aluminum silicate) are used in water purification systems and can even remove radioactive contamination
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ EU CosIng database
- β’ CIR Safety Assessment of aluminum silicates
- β’ FDA cosmetic ingredient database
Last data verification: 2026-04-12
Related Ingredients
KAOLIN
TALC
MAGNESIUM CARBONATE
CALCIUM CARBONATE
MAGNESIUM STEARATE
ALUMINUM STEARATE
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ALUMINUM SILICATE used for in cosmetics?
ALUMINUM SILICATE is primarily used for abrasive in cosmetic products. It also serves as absorbent, anticaking. The ingredient is commonly found in various cosmetic and personal care products.
Which countries regulate ALUMINUM SILICATE?
ALUMINUM SILICATE is banned in UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in EU, JP, US.
Are there alternatives to ALUMINUM SILICATE?
Due to regulatory restrictions on ALUMINUM SILICATE, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For abrasive, alternatives may include other approved ingredients in the same category. Consult product labels for specific formulations, and look for products compliant with your region's regulations.
Where can I find official regulation information about ALUMINUM SILICATE?
Official information about ALUMINUM SILICATE regulations can be found on government websites: EU CosIng database, US FDA Cosmetics page, Japan MHLW cosmetics standards, UK Government cosmetics guidance, and Korea MFDS. Always verify regulatory status with these official sources before making formulation decisions.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive for accuracy based on official government databases, cosmetic regulations change frequently. Always consult with a qualified professional or refer to the latest official regulatory documents for compliance. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided here.