Anti-caking agents are important ingredients in powdered cosmetic products such as face powders, blushes, and eye shadows. They prevent the formation of lumps (caking) by absorbing excess moisture or coating the particles, and help create consistency, fluidity, beauty, and easy application of the product.
In manufacturing, the addition of anti-caking agents helps prevent bridging during the packaging process, which can reduce production rates. The bridging of powders occurs when particles interlock or bond together to build a bridge or arch above the outlet of a container like a silo, hopper, or mixer vessel.