Inorganic powdery raw materials used in cosmetics include: talc, kaolin, bentonite, calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, diatomaceous earth, and others.
Talc
Talc is a natural silicate; its primary component is hydrated magnesium silicate. It is characterized by its white color, smoothness, and softness, and it does not induce any chemical reactions with the skin. It serves as a key raw material in various powdery cosmetic products, such as talcum powder, perfumed powder, pressed powder, and rouge.
Kaolin
Also known as white china clay, kaolin consists primarily of hydrated aluminum silicate. It presents as a fine white or pale yellow powder with excellent adhesion to the skin, as well as properties that help control sebum and absorb perspiration. In cosmetic formulations, it is often used in combination with talc to help mitigate or eliminate the glossy finish typically associated with talc. It serves as a vital raw material in a wide range of powdery cosmetics, including foundation sticks, eyeshadows, talcum powder, perfumed powder, pressed powder, and rouge.
Bentonite
In cosmetic applications, bentonite is primarily utilized as a suspending agent in emulsion-based products, as well as in items such as pressed powders.
Titanium Dioxide
This material is an odorless, tasteless, white, amorphous, and finely particulate powder. It possesses strong covering power (opacity) and exhibits low permeability to ultraviolet (UV) radiation; consequently, it is widely used in sunscreen products. Furthermore, it serves as a crucial opacifying agent in various powdery cosmetics-such as foundation sticks, eyeshadows, talcum powder, perfumed powder, pressed powder, and rouge-to enhance their coverage and visual appeal.
Silicone Powder
PMS 310 is a spherical silicone powder composed of polymethylsilsesquioxane, featuring an average particle size of 3–10 microns. Produced through a specialized manufacturing process, this organic silicone powder combines the advantages of both inorganic and organic powders, delivering a smooth, silky-soft skin feel alongside exceptional water-resistant properties. Unlike the cool, hard tactile sensation typical of inorganic mineral powders, its inherent silicone nature imparts a soft, elastic feel to the touch-much like the smooth, luxurious texture of silk.