MAGNESIUM CARBONATE
Commonly Found In
Overview
Magnesium carbonate is a naturally occurring mineral used as an absorbent, bulking, and opacifying agent in cosmetic face powders and dry shampoos. It is the same ingredient athletes use as gym chalk to absorb moisture. Well-tolerated, non-irritating, and inert at cosmetic concentrations.
Also known as: magnesite (mineral form), MgCO3, E504 (food grade), carbonic acid magnesium salt
Key Benefits
Functions as an absorbent and bulking agent; may help control excess sebum in face powders and dry shampoos. Studies suggest it is inert and non-irritating.
Supporting Research
- β’ CIR Expert Panel β Safety Assessment of Magnesium Carbonate: Assessed safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Non-comedogenic; inert absorbent mineral
Source: CIR Expert Panel
Irritancy Rating
Very low irritancy; considered safe for topical use
Source: CIR Expert Panel
Typical Use Concentration
Range
1β20%
Optimal
2β10%
No specific regulatory limit. Used as adjunct absorbent and bulking agent in powder cosmetics.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Use With Caution
Alkaline pH; may react with acidic ingredients. Best in neutral to mildly alkaline powder formulations.
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/139) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
Widely permitted globally. EU Annex IV/139 lists it as a permitted colorant (white). Inert mineral; no safety concerns at cosmetic concentrations.
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
Found as the mineral magnesite in geological deposits worldwide. Also occurs as dolomite (mixed with calcium carbonate). Major mining locations include China, North Korea, Russia, and Brazil.
π How It's Made
Produced by reacting magnesium salts with sodium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate, or extracted by mining and purifying natural magnesite. Also made by carbonation of magnesium hydroxide.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Used in face powders and dry shampoos as an absorbent for oils and moisture, as a bulking agent, and as an opacifier. Also serves as a binder in pressed powder formulations.
π¬ Other Applications
Used as gymnastics chalk, antacid medicine, food additive (anti-caking agent), in fireproofing materials, and as a filler in rubber and plastics manufacturing.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ Gymnasts, rock climbers, and weightlifters rub magnesium carbonate on their hands as 'chalk' to improve grip and absorb sweat
- β’ It's one of the ingredients in the white powder used on baseball and pool/billiard cues
- β’ Magnesium carbonate is so good at absorbing moisture that it's used as a drying agent in table salt to prevent clumping
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 Annex IV entry 139
- β’ CIR Expert Panel β Safety Assessment of Magnesium Carbonate
Last data verification: 2026-04-12
Related Ingredients
ALUMINUM SILICATE
KAOLIN
TALC
BARIUM SULFATE
BENTONITE
CALCIUM CARBONATE
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
What is MAGNESIUM CARBONATE used for in cosmetics?
MAGNESIUM CARBONATE is primarily used for absorbent in cosmetic products. It also serves as binding, bulking. The ingredient is commonly found in various cosmetic and personal care products.
Which countries regulate MAGNESIUM CARBONATE?
MAGNESIUM CARBONATE is banned in UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in EU, JP, US.
Are there alternatives to MAGNESIUM CARBONATE?
Due to regulatory restrictions on MAGNESIUM CARBONATE, 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 MAGNESIUM CARBONATE?
Official information about MAGNESIUM CARBONATE 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.