Calcium Silicate is a mineral-based compound extensively used in the cosmetic industry for its multifunctional properties. It acts as an absorbent, viscosity controller, and bulking agent, contributing to the stability and texture of formulations. This lightweight material enhances product spreadability and imparts a matte finish, making it suitable for makeup products designed for oily or combination skin. Found commonly in powders, foundations, and other cosmetic products, Calcium Silicate plays a key role in improving product performance and aesthetic appeal.
CAS Number: 1344-95-2
Molecular Formula: Ca2O4Si
Synonyms:
- Silicic acid, calcium salt
- Dicalcium silicate
- Calcium hydrosilicate
- Calcium monosilicate
+ 7 more…
- Calsil
- Micro-cel
- dicalcium;silicate
- Calcium silicate, synthetic nonfibrous
- UNII-S4255P4G5M
- dicalcium orthosilicate
- Grammite
- Calcium pectolith
Properties of Calcium Silicate
Chemical Identifiers
| EC Number | 215-710-8 |
| UNII | 9W3UX8K5UQ |
| InChIKey | JHLNERQLKQQLRZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N |
| SMILES | [O-]Si([O-])[O-].[Ca+2].[Ca+2] |
| IUPAC Name | dicalcium;silicate |
| InChI | InChI=1S/2Ca.O4Si/c;;1-5(2,3)4/q2*+2;-4 |
Physical and Chemical Properties
Calcium Silicate is typically encountered as a fine, white, odorless powder. With a chemical formula of Ca2SiO4, it is known for its thermal stability and low conductivity, making it a versatile ingredient. Its hydrophilic nature enables it to absorb moisture from the surrounding environment. In addition to its cosmetic applications, Calcium Silicate is widely used in construction, as an insulating material, and as a filler in various industrial processes.
| Property | Value |
| pH | pH of aqueous slurry: 8.0-10.0 |
| Density | 2.92 g/cu cm |
| Color/Form | White powder |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water |
| Melting Point | 1540°C |
| Vapor Pressure | 0 mmHg |
| Refractive Index | 1.616, 1.629, 1.631 |
| Other Experimental Properties | Colorless, monoclinic crystals; density: 2.5 /Natural wollastonite (beta-calcium metasilicate) |
Structural Properties
The structural properties of Calcium Silicate show that it is a relatively simple compound with moderate molecular weight and complexity. It has no formal charge and lacks any isotopes or rotatable bonds. The compound is stable and canonical, meaning it has a standard form.
With four hydrogen bond acceptors but no donors, it interacts with other molecules in specific ways. The compound’s surface area is notable for its topological polar surface area, which impacts how it interacts with its environment.
| Property | Value |
| Complexity | 19.1 |
| Exact Mass | 171.8817667 g/mol |
| Formal Charge | 0 |
| Heavy Atom Count | 7 |
| Molecular Weight | 172.24 g/mol |
| Monoisotopic Mass | 171.8817667 g/mol |
| Isotope Atom Count | 0 |
| Rotatable Bond Count | 0 |
| Compound Is Canonicalized | Yes |
| Hydrogen Bond Donor Count | 0 |
| Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count | 4 |
| Covalently-Bonded Unit Count | 3 |
| Topological Polar Surface Area | 92.2 Ų |
| Defined Atom Stereocenter Count | 0 |
| Defined Bond Stereocenter Count | 0 |
| Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count | 0 |
| Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count | 0 |
Uses of Calcium Silicate in Cosmetics
Functional role in cosmetics:
- Calcium Silicate is used as a viscosity controlling, absorbent, pearlescent, bulking, and opacifying agent in cosmetics.
Other uses:
- Used as a paint additive.
- Also classified under the EPA Safer Chemical Functional Use Classes, primarily used as processing aids and additives.
Cosmetic Products Containing Calcium Silicate
Recent products using Calcium Silicate in their cosmetic formulations
- Huda Beauty Lip Contour 2.0 Automatic Matte Lip Pencil
- Airspun Coty Airspun Loose Face Powder
- CoverGirl Clean Classic Color Blush
- Dior Forever Cushion Powder
- Clinique Stay-Matte Sheer Pressed Powder
- Kokuryudo Privacy Uv Lucent Face Powder Spf50+
- Vitabath Orchid Intrigue™ Mineral Bath Soak
- Ellen Betrix Loose Powder
- bareMinerals Matte Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF 15
- ISDIN Fotoprotector Isdin Sunbrush Mineral Spf 50+
- Grown Alchemist Matte Balancing Moisturiser
- Avon Ultra Matte Lipstick
Top companies using Calcium Silicate in their cosmetic products
- Huda Beauty
- Coty
- CoverGirl
- Dior
- Clinique
- Kokuryudo
- Vitabath
- Ellen Betrix
- bareMinerals
- ISDIN
- Grown Alchemist
- Avon
How Calcium Silicate Works in Formulations
Calcium Silicate is a mineral-based ingredient that is primarily used in cosmetics as an absorbent, anti-caking agent, and thickener. It is commonly found in powders, foundations, deodorants, and other personal care products.
Ideal Concentration and Benefits in Different Formulations
Absorbent Properties
Calcium Silicate is an excellent absorbent and is often used in products designed to absorb excess moisture, such as dry shampoos, body powders, and deodorants. One of calcium silicate’s primary functions is to absorb excess moisture and oil, giving the skin a matte finish.
- Concentration: 1%–10%
- Benefit: Helps control shine and keeps the skin feeling dry and fresh, making it ideal for oil-absorbing formulations
Anti-Caking Agent
Calcium Silicate helps prevent the clumping or caking of powdered ingredients in formulations, ensuring that the product remains free-flowing and easy to apply. It is particularly useful in powdered makeup, such as foundations, blushes, and eye shadows, as it helps maintain the smooth texture of the product.
Thickening Agent
In addition to its absorbent and anti-caking properties, Calcium Silicate can act as a thickening agent in creams, lotions, and other emulsions. It enhances the viscosity and stability of products, contributing to a smoother, more desirable texture.
Compatibility with Other Ingredients
Calcium Silicate is generally compatible with most other ingredients used in cosmetic formulations, including emulsifiers, surfactants, and stabilizers. It does not interfere with the performance of other active ingredients and can be used in conjunction with various humectants and emollients without compromising product efficacy.
Stability and Shelf Life
Calcium Silicate is stable in most formulations and does not degrade over time. It should be stored away from excess moisture, to prevent clumping or loss of its absorbent properties.
- Shelf life: Typically 2–3 years
- Best storage: Keep in airtight, moisture-resistant containers in a dry environment to preserve its effectiveness
Formulation Challenges and Troubleshooting
Calcium Silicate is a versatile ingredient in cosmetics, but there are some formulation challenges that need to be addressed to optimize its performance:
Clumping and Dusting
Calcium Silicate can create dust during formulation or packaging, which may lead to product clumping or excessive dusting in powder formulations.
Solution: To minimize dusting, use controlled mixing techniques and ensure proper particle size distribution. Adding small amounts of a binder or adjusting the moisture content of the formulation can also help prevent clumping.
Viscosity Control
When used as a thickener, Calcium Silicate can sometimes produce a formulation that is either too thick or not thick enough, depending on the concentration.
Solution: Adjust the concentration of Calcium Silicate according to the desired viscosity. Conduct small-scale tests to find the right balance for your specific formulation.
Incompatibility with Other Thickeners
In some formulations, Calcium Silicate may not work well with other thickeners or emulsifiers, leading to instability or textural issues.
Solution: Test compatibility with other thickening agents and emulsifiers in small batches. If necessary, adjust the ratio of thickeners to ensure the final product maintains the desired texture and stability.
Skin Sensitivity
While generally considered safe, in rare cases, Calcium Silicate may cause skin irritation or sensitivity, particularly in products that are left on the skin.
Solution: Use Calcium Silicate in rinse-off products (like body powders or dry shampoos) at lower concentrations (1%–5%). For leave-on products, conduct patch testing to ensure skin compatibility.
Packaging Compatibility
Calcium Silicate is inert but may interact with certain packaging materials if exposed to excess moisture or high humidity, leading to clumping or degradation.
Solution: Ensure the product is packaged in moisture-resistant containers, such as glass or specific plastics that are resistant to moisture. Avoid packaging in materials that may absorb moisture, leading to changes in the product’s texture.
Is Calcium Silicate Safe in Cosmetics?
Safety reports for Calcium Silicate are given below:
- Final Report on the Safety Assessment of Aluminum Silicate, Calcium Silicate, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Magnesium Silicate, Magnesium Trisilicate, Sodium Magnesium Silicate, Zirconium Silicate, Attapulgite, Bentonite, Fuller’s Earth, Hectorite, Kaolin, Lithium Magnesium Silicate, Lithium Magnesium Sodium Silicate, Montmorillonite, Pyrophyllite, and Zeolite. Download PDF
- Amended Safety Assessment of Silicates as Used in Cosmetics. Download PDF
Regulatory Considerations for Using Calcium Silicate in Cosmetic Formulations
Few regulatory considerations are to be taken into account before using Calcium Silicate as an ingredient. Given below is the list of those regulations:
FDA Requirements: Calcium Silicate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food products when used within established limits: up to 2% in table salt and 5% in baking powder, following good manufacturing practices.
FIFRA Requirements: As mandated by FIFRA, the EPA conducts evaluations of older pesticides to assess their health and environmental impacts and to determine their eligibility for continued use under updated safety standards such as the Food Quality Protection Act of 1996. Pesticides are categorized by potential human exposure and associated risks.
Calcium Silicate is categorized under List D, indicating lower priority. Case No: 4081; Pesticide type: Insecticide, fungicide, antimicrobial; Case Status: RED Approved 09/91. EPA determined that some or all uses of Calcium Silicate are eligible for reregistration. However, the active ingredient is no longer contained in any registered products, as its use has been cancelled.
New Zealand EPA Inventory of Chemical Status: Calcium Silicate does not hold an individual approval but may be utilized under relevant group standards.
Calcium Silicate Side Effects
Calcium Silicate is generally regarded as a low-toxicity substance. It does not show significant acute toxicity in humans, although inhalation of its dust can irritate the respiratory tract, leading to coughing or discomfort. Long-term exposure to airborne particles may contribute to lung-related conditions, such as pneumoconiosis. Skin and ingestion exposures typically result in minimal effects.
However, proper handling practices (including protective equipment) are essential to reduce potential risks associated with prolonged or high-level exposure. The compound is environmentally benign and does not bioaccumulate.
Symptoms
- Eye Exposure: May cause redness.
- Skin Exposure: No acute symptoms expected.
- Ingestion Exposure: No acute symptoms expected.
- Inhalation Exposure: May cause coughing.
Interactions
Comparative studies in rats exposed to wollastonite and amosite fibrous dusts, combined with cigarette smoke, show that amosite exposure significantly reduced alveolar macrophage viability and increased cathepsin D activity in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cells. Wollastonite exposure mainly increased cathepsin D activity, while smoking reduced phagocytic activity of macrophages and amplified enzyme activity changes caused by amosite.
Target Organs
Primarily affects the eyes, skin, and respiratory system.
Adverse Effects
It is not classified as a carcinogen by ACGIH.
Exposure Routes
Exposure predominantly occurs via inhalation.
Non-Human Toxicity Values
The LD50 (Lethal Dose, 50%) for Calcium Silicate in male rats exceeds 5,000 mg/kg when administered orally. This indicates low acute toxicity, as doses above 5 grams per kilogram did not cause mortality in 50% of the test population.
Antidote and Emergency Treatment
- For severe cases (e.g., pulmonary edema, unconsciousness, or respiratory distress), intubation and positive-pressure ventilation may be necessary.
- Albuterol can help relieve bronchospasms, while cardiac monitoring is essential for managing arrhythmias.
- IV fluids (D5W or 0.9% saline) should be given cautiously to prevent fluid overload in hypovolemic patients. Seizures can be controlled with diazepam or lorazepam.
- For eye exposure, proparacaine hydrochloride can aid in irrigation.
Environmental and Sustainability Impact
Calcium Silicate is a naturally occurring mineral commonly used in cosmetics for its absorbent, anti-caking, and thickening properties. While generally considered safe and environmentally friendly, its production and disposal should still be evaluated:
Environmental Impact
- Water Pollution: Calcium Silicate is insoluble in water and does not pose a significant risk of water pollution. However, large amounts of dust or particulate matter released during production could affect air quality and water if not managed correctly.
- Carbon Footprint: The production of Calcium Silicate involves the mining and processing of natural minerals, which can have a moderate carbon footprint. The environmental impact is generally lower compared to synthetic ingredients, but energy is still required for extraction and processing.
Sustainability
Calcium Silicate is derived from naturally abundant minerals, making it a relatively sustainable ingredient in cosmetic formulations.
- Raw Materials: Calcium Silicate is sourced from natural deposits of calcium and silica, which are abundant and non-toxic. However, the environmental impact of mining and transportation can contribute to resource depletion and environmental disturbance if not managed sustainably.
- Energy Use: The energy required for processing Calcium Silicate is relatively low compared to other more chemically complex ingredients, but energy consumption during mining and refinement can still contribute to environmental impact.
- End-of-Life Impact: As a mineral-based ingredient, Calcium Silicate is generally safe for disposal and poses little risk to the environment. It is inert and biodegradable, so it breaks down without significant harm when released into the environment in small quantities.
Biodegradability and Toxicity
Calcium Silicate is non-toxic and biodegradable, which means it does not pose significant risks to human health or the environment under typical usage conditions in cosmetics.
- Toxicity: Calcium Silicate is generally regarded as safe for topical use and is non-irritating at the concentrations commonly used in cosmetic formulations.
- Environmental Impact: Calcium Silicate poses minimal long-term environmental risks and does not bioaccumulate. It is unlikely to cause harm to ecosystems when disposed of in small amounts.
Eco-Friendly Alternatives
Calcium Silicate is already considered a relatively eco-friendly ingredient, but there are a few alternatives for specific functions:
- Talc: Talc can be used as an alternative absorbent and anti-caking agent in some formulations, but its environmental impact can be higher due to mining concerns and possible asbestos contamination.
- Silica: Naturally derived silica is another alternative that can perform similar functions, such as oil absorption and thickening, with a similar environmental profile to Calcium Silicate.
- Rice Powder & Cornstarch: Sustainable, biodegradable, and natural alternatives for oil control mattifying, and bulking. Used in loose powders, dry shampoos, and skin-care formulations.
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