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Moumoujus

CALCIUM CARBONATE.

Valuable CAS 471-34-1 / ABRASIVE, BUFFERING, BULKING, OPACIFYING, ORAL CARE

A versatile mineral compound utilized in precision skincare for its exceptional ability to manage sebum and refine skin texture. It serves as a dual-action agent that provides a soft-focus matte finish while doubling as a gentle physical polisher for resurfacing the stratum corneum.

Summary

sebum-absorbent mattifying agent pH buffer gentle abrasive opacifier

Science

Mechanism of Action

Calcium carbonate operates through three primary vectors: it physically absorbs excess lipids from the skin surface to control shine, scatters incident light to optically blur imperfections and fine lines, and acts as a sacrificial alkaline buffer to stabilize formula pH levels.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 1–35%
Optimal

10%

Key findings

  1. 01 Clinical evaluation of functionalized calcium carbonate (FCC) at 100% concentration demonstrated a 0/10 irritation score among sensitive-skin subjects, confirming high biocompatibility.
  2. 02 Industrial patent data indicates that inclusion rates between 1-10% provide significant sebum-wicking properties and a measurable 'blurring' effect on skin pores.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
1%
Red flag below
0.5%

While often used as a bulking agent, concentrations below 1% in mattifying products or scrubs are likely insufficient to provide the mechanical or absorptive benefits required for clinical efficacy.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 7 – 10.5
0 7 14

Stability

Naturally stable in alkaline environments; however, it is highly reactive in acidic conditions (pH < 7.0), which can lead to formula destabilization and CO2 release unless using specialized surface-reacted variants.

Synergies

  • Kaolin
  • Bentonite
  • Silica

Conflicts

  • Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
  • Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs)
  • L-Ascorbic Acid
  • EDTA

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
35%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

Classified as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) and FDA-approved. It is non-toxic and well-tolerated even by hyper-reactive skin types.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
No Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

An excellent, non-irritating mineral for oily and sensitive skin types requiring texture refinement and superior oil management.

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