Allowed in EU

Clay

A cosmetic ingredient used as absorbent, binding, bulking in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.

What is it?

Clay is a group of phyllosilicate minerals produced by the chemical and physical weathering of rock. It consists chiefly of varying amounts of hydrated silica and alumina, and is characterized by a particle size of less than 2 micrometers

What does it do?

Clay is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:

  • Absorbent

    takes up water-based or oil-based substances

  • Binding

    holds the components of a formulation together, especially in pressed powders and compact makeup

  • Bulking

    adds volume or mass to a product without significantly changing its other properties

  • Skin conditioning

    improves the appearance, feel, and condition of skin

  • Viscosity controlling

    adjusts the thickness or flow of a formulation

EU regulatory status

Clay is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the European Union under Regulation 1223/2009. It is not subject to a specific Annex restriction at the time of writing.

Frequently asked questions

What is Clay?

Clay is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Clay is a group of phyllosilicate minerals produced by the chemical and physical weathering of rock. It consists chiefly of varying amounts of hydrated silica and alumina, and is characterized by a particle size of less than 2 micrometers

Is Clay allowed in cosmetics in the EU?

Yes. Clay is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.

What does Clay do in cosmetic products?

Clay is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: absorbent, binding, bulking, skin conditioning, viscosity controlling.

What is the CAS number of Clay?

The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Clay is -.

Related ingredients

Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 15/10/2010