Diatomaceous Earth
A cosmetic ingredient used as abrasive, anticaking, bulking in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.
What is it?
Diatomaceous Earth is a mineral material consisting chiefly of the siliceous frustules and fragments of various species of diatoms
What does it do?
Diatomaceous Earth is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:
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Abrasive
removes material from the skin or other surface, used in scrubs and toothpaste
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Anticaking
prevents powders from clumping or caking, keeping them free-flowing
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Bulking
adds volume or mass to a product without significantly changing its other properties
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Opacifying
makes a transparent or translucent formulation opaque or pearlescent
EU regulatory status
Diatomaceous Earth 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 Diatomaceous Earth?
Diatomaceous Earth is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Diatomaceous Earth is a mineral material consisting chiefly of the siliceous frustules and fragments of various species of diatoms
Is Diatomaceous Earth allowed in cosmetics in the EU?
Yes. Diatomaceous Earth is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.
What does Diatomaceous Earth do in cosmetic products?
Diatomaceous Earth is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: abrasive, anticaking, bulking, opacifying.
What is the CAS number of Diatomaceous Earth?
The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Diatomaceous Earth is 61790-53-2 / -.
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