Science
Mechanism of Action
This extract primarily functions through its outstanding sorption and absorption capabilities, enabling it to take up approximately its own weight in water. Its highly hydrophilic surface, rich in silanol groups, contributes to its efficacy in absorbing excess sebum and impurities. Sepiolite Extract also acts as a mild physical exfoliant and, when dispersed in liquids, its elongated particles can form an intermeshed structure, increasing viscosity and providing pseudoplastic and thixotropic rheological properties, thereby stabilizing formulations as a suspending agent.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
As a naturally sourced clay mineral, Sepiolite Extract may be present in powder form. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel highlighted in 2021 that while silicate ingredients are generally safe when formulated to be non-irritating, data were insufficient to determine the safety of naturally-sourced silicates, including sepiolite, for use in products that may be incidentally inhaled. This necessitates careful consideration in formulations, especially for sprays or powders.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Sepiolite Extract exhibits robust stability across a broad pH range, specifically between pH 3.0 and 10.0; pH values outside this range can lead to corrosion of its internal structure. Its suspensions are stable even in high-salt concentration systems. For optimal adsorption properties, such as for hydrocortisone, a pH range of 7.0 to 8.5 is preferred. Rheological properties, including yield stress, are maximized between pH 4.0 and 8.0. Colloidal grades of sepiolite require high-shear mixing for effective dispersion in liquid systems.
Conflicts
- strong acids (pH < 3)
- strong bases (pH > 10)
Safety
Safety Profile
The CIR Expert Panel concluded that silicate ingredients, including Sepiolite, are safe in cosmetics when formulated to be non-irritating. However, there were insufficient data to determine the safety of naturally-sourced silicate ingredients for use in products that may be incidentally inhaled. SkinSAFE lists Sepiolite Extract as 'Irritant Free'.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Sepiolite Extract is a valuable ingredient for its potent absorption and mild exfoliating capabilities, offering benefits for oily and sensitive skin with low irritancy and comedogenicity, though inhalation safety for certain product types requires careful formulation.
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