Zeolite
A cosmetic ingredient used as absorbent, anticaking, bulking in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.
What is it?
Zeolites. Crystalline aluminosilicates, composed of silica (SiO2) and alumina (Al2O3), in various proportions plus metallic oxides. Produced by hydrothermal treatment of a solid aluminosilicate or of a gel obtained by the reaction of sodium hydroxide, alumina hydrate and sodium silicate. The initially obtained product, or a naturally occurring analog, may be partially ion-exchanged to introduce other cations. Specific zeolites are identified by notations indicating crystal structure and predominant cation, e.g., KA, CaX, NaY
What does it do?
Zeolite is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:
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Absorbent
takes up water-based or oil-based substances
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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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Deodorant
reduces or masks unpleasant body odour
EU regulatory status
Zeolite 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 Zeolite?
Zeolite is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Zeolites. Crystalline aluminosilicates, composed of silica (SiO2) and alumina (Al2O3), in various proportions plus metallic oxides. Produced by hydrothermal treatment of a solid aluminosilicate or of a gel obtained by the reaction of sodium hydroxide, alumina hydrate and sodium silicate. The initially obtained product, or a naturally occurring analog, may be partially ion-exchanged to introduce other cations. Specific zeolites are identified by notations indicating crystal structure and predominant cation, e.g., KA, CaX, NaY
Is Zeolite allowed in cosmetics in the EU?
Yes. Zeolite is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.
What does Zeolite do in cosmetic products?
Zeolite is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: absorbent, anticaking, bulking, deodorant.
What is the CAS number of Zeolite?
The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Zeolite is 1318-02-1.
Related ingredients
Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 04/10/2012