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Moumoujus

QUARTZ POWDER.

Questionable CAS - / ABRASIVE

Quartz powder is a multi-functional mineral, leveraged in precision skincare for its gentle physical exfoliation and efficient sebum absorption. It simultaneously provides a sophisticated soft-focus effect to visibly minimize imperfections, while also acting as a texture enhancer in formulations. Its inclusion demands careful formulation to ensure it remains non-inhalable.

Summary

Exfoliant Oil Absorbent Mattifying Agent Light-Diffusing Agent Soft-Focus Agent Texture Enhancer Anti-Caking Agent UV Protection Amplifier

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a physical abrasive, finely pulverized quartz powder gently buffs away dead skin cells, promoting epidermal renewal and revealing a smoother, more luminous complexion. Its highly porous structure effectively adsorbs excess sebum from the skin's surface, contributing to a mattified finish and controlled shine. Beyond its textural benefits as a cosmetic enhancer and anti-caking agent, quartz also acts as a light-diffusing agent, scattering incident light to create a soft-focus optical blur that diminishes the appearance of fine lines and pores. Indirectly, it may support micro-circulation and aid in the outermost layer of epidermis renewal. Additionally, it can augment the efficacy of co-formulated UV protective ingredients.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Commonly dusted
Red flag below
1%

While frequently incorporated into cosmetic powders and mineral makeup, quartz powder carries significant safety implications when present in respirable forms. EU regulations mandate specific labeling for products containing over 1 wt% respirable quartz, and the EWG considers crystalline quartz unacceptable for its VERIFIED™ standard due to potential respiratory concerns associated with inhalation. Therefore, precision formulation must ensure non-inhalable application.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Unknown
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

As a hard and chemically inert mineral (silicon dioxide), quartz powder exhibits excellent stability across a broad range of cosmetic formulations, including typical skincare pH values (e.g., 4.5-6.5). It does not chemically degrade. However, it is widely considered insoluble in both water and most cosmetic oils, necessitating fine milling with gently rounded particles to prevent irritation. Formulators should anticipate challenges in maintaining suspension, often requiring thicker product bases or designs that recommend shaking prior to use.

Synergies

  • Other sunscreen ingredients (UV amplification)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that silicate ingredients (including quartz) are safe for topical use when formulated to be non-irritating, provided they are not incidentally inhaled. Data is insufficient for naturally-sourced forms in products that may be incidentally inhaled. Synthetically-manufactured amorphous silica and hydrated silica are deemed safe when non-irritating. Notably, EU regulations recommend labeling products with respirable quartz exceeding 1 wt%, and the EWG classifies 'Silica, Crystalline (Quartz)' as unacceptable for EWG VERIFIED™ products due to respiratory risks associated with inhalable forms.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Questionable

Quartz powder offers valuable exfoliating, oil-absorbing, and aesthetic benefits to the skin, but its use requires strict adherence to non-inhalable topical formulations due to significant respiratory safety concerns.

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