Kaolin
INCI · Kaolin · also China clay, White clay, Kaolinite
Overview
A soft white aluminium silicate clay that absorbs oil and lends body to masks, powders and cleansers. Among the clays used on skin it is the mildest, drawing less aggressively than bentonite or rhassoul.
Who it's for
Oily and combination skin using wash-off masks, and formulas that need opacity — mineral powders lean on it heavily.
Cautions
Absorbing surface oil is a temporary, cosmetic effect; it does not change how much sebum the skin goes on to produce. The usual route to tightness and irritation is leaving a clay mask on until it cracks dry, since the clay does its work while still damp.
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What does Kaolin do in skincare?
A soft white aluminium silicate clay that absorbs oil and lends body to masks, powders and cleansers. Among the clays used on skin it is the mildest, drawing less aggressively than bentonite or rhassoul.
Is Kaolin considered safe for skin?
Absorbing surface oil is a temporary, cosmetic effect; it does not change how much sebum the skin goes on to produce. The usual route to tightness and irritation is leaving a clay mask on until it cracks dry, since the clay does its work while still damp.