BENTONITE
Overview
BENTONITE is a cosmetic ingredient primarily used for ABSORBENT. It is commonly found in various cosmetic formulations and serves important functions in personal care products.
Also known as: Bentonite, Montmorillonite Clay, Wyoming Bentonite, Smectite Clay
Key Benefits
Bentonite swells significantly in water and may help absorb oil and impurities from pores when used in mask formulations. Studies suggest it may help reduce sebum on the skin surface, which could benefit oily skin types and potentially contribute to clearer-looking skin over time.
Supporting Research
- β’ CIR Expert Panel β safety assessment of bentonite in cosmetics confirming safety and absorbent efficacy
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Low comedogenic potential as an absorbent; rinse-off use in masks further reduces any comedogenic concern
Source: Kligman & Mills comedogenicity scale
Irritancy Rating
Non-irritating in cosmetic use; well tolerated in rinse-off mask formulations
Source: CIR Expert Panel
Typical Use Concentration
Range
1β20%
Optimal
5β15% in masks
Used in clay masks at 5β20% concentration. Can be used as viscosity modifier in other formulations at lower concentrations.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Use With Caution
Higher absorption capacity than kaolin; may be too drying for sensitive or very dry skin if overused. Optimal as a rinse-off clay mask ingredient. Swells significantly in water; formulation requires careful hydration balancing.
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
Bentonite is permitted in EU, US, and Japan as a cosmetic ingredient. Like kaolin, the UK restriction note (IV/119) relates to colorant use context. No major cross-market divergence for standard cosmetic use.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in UK but allowed in EU, USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 8 ingredients in the ABSORBENT category. 100% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
A natural clay mineral formed from volcanic ash that has weathered over millions of years. Major deposits are found in Wyoming (USA), where it was first identified near Fort Benton. Also found in India, China, Greece, and Turkey.
π How It's Made
Mined from open-pit quarries, then dried, crushed, and processed into fine powder. The clay is primarily composed of montmorillonite and can absorb several times its weight in water.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Used in cosmetic products primarily for absorbent, bulking, emulsion stabilising, viscosity controlling.
π¬ Other Applications
Widely used in cat litter (clumping type), drilling mud for oil wells, wine and juice clarification, and as a binding agent in foundry sand molds. Also used in construction for waterproofing.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ Bentonite can swell up to 12 times its dry volume when mixed with water, forming a thick gel
- β’ Ancient civilizations used bentonite clay as a natural healing remedy β it has been found in Egyptian tomb artifacts
- β’ It's used to seal the walls of dams and landfills because of its incredible water-blocking properties
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ CIR Expert Panel safety assessment of bentonite
- β’ EU CosIng database
- β’ FDA cosmetic ingredient database
- β’ Japan MHLW cosmetic ingredient database
Last data verification: 2026-04-12
Related Ingredients
ALUMINUM SILICATE
ALUMINUM STEARATE
CALCIUM STEARATE
KAOLIN
MAGNESIUM CARBONATE
Cetostearyl Alcohol
CETEARYL ALCOHOL
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BENTONITE used for in cosmetics?
BENTONITE is primarily used for absorbent in cosmetic products. It also serves as bulking, emulsion stabilising. The ingredient is commonly found in various cosmetic and personal care products.
Which countries regulate BENTONITE?
BENTONITE is banned in UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in EU, JP, US.
Are there alternatives to BENTONITE?
Due to regulatory restrictions on BENTONITE, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For absorbent, 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 BENTONITE?
Official information about BENTONITE 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.