Get a Free 5ml Mini Now Free 5ml Mini With Every Order of The Mantle
Moumoujus

MOROCCAN LAVA CLAY.

Valuable CAS 12417-86-6 / ABRASIVE, ABSORBENT, BULKING, EMULSION STABILISING, OPACIFYING, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

Moroccan Lava Clay, commonly known as Rhassoul, is a naturally occurring mineral-rich clay prized for its multi-functional benefits in skincare. It excels at absorbing excess sebum and impurities while providing gentle exfoliation, contributing to a refined complexion and supporting skin's natural resilience.

Summary

Absorbent Mattifying Exfoliant Bulking Agent Viscosity Controlling

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions primarily through its highly absorbent, negatively charged metallic elements, which magnetically attract and bind positively charged toxins and impurities from the skin's surface for easy removal. Its distinctive crystal structure, abundant in magnesium and silica, facilitates a high cation exchange capacity, allowing for effective cleansing without compromising the skin's natural lipid barrier. When hydrated, it forms a colloidal suspension that aids in mild physical exfoliation, dislodging dead skin cells and unclogging pores. Moreover, the inherent minerals contribute to strengthening the skin's natural defense, promoting collagen synthesis, enhancing elasticity, and mitigating inflammation.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Small clinical trials suggest Rhassoul clay may alleviate skin complications in individuals with an ostomy by forming a protective barrier and detoxifying.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 6.9 – 7.5
0 7 14

Stability

This ingredient is a dry powder with high water absorption capacity, leading to significant thickening in formulations, which necessitates careful adjustment of water content. Its intrinsic pH is naturally between 6.9 and 7.5. When incorporated into masks, particularly for dry or sensitive skin types, it should not be left to dry completely to prevent potential irritation or excessive dehydration. Storage should be in a cool, dry environment.

Conflicts

  • Metal utensils (can disrupt its charged particles)
  • Strong acids or bases (to maintain optimal pH range of 6.9-7.5)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Insufficient data (under review)
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel is actively reviewing the safety of 'Clays,' including Moroccan Lava Clay, with recent reports indicating insufficient data for a comprehensive assessment. Public health warnings from the FDA have targeted unnotified cosmetic products containing various clays due to quality and safety concerns, rather than Moroccan Lava Clay as a specific ingredient. It is exempt from TSCA for cosmetic applications. Internal ingestion is strictly contraindicated due to potential contaminants (bacteria, parasites, heavy metals) and risks of electrolyte imbalance or medication interference.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Moroccan Lava Clay is a valuable absorbent and exfoliating ingredient, offering skin purification and mineral enrichment with a low risk of irritation or comedogenicity, though comprehensive CIR safety data is still pending.

Related

Similar Ingredients

Finding similar ingredients…