SILICA

Also known as Silicon Dioxide, Silica is found in ample amounts in the Earth’s crust. In fact, it is the second most abundant element on Earth after oxygen and is also found in living organisms. It is either a crystal that is colorless or a white powder that is tasteless and odorless. The chemical formula of Silica is SiO₂. Silica is most commonly used in cosmetic and skincare products as it improves the feel and texture of the formulations

It is a form of silicon dioxide that is used in a number of personal care and cosmetic products. It provides mild abrasion properties that can exfoliate the face properly and aid in the removal of dead skin cells.

It can be produced and consumed in hydrated, fumed, and precipitated forms.

Hydrated Silica is Produced by neutralizing sodium silicate with acid, leading to precipitation. It is mild abrasive, good thickening ability, transparent in gels.

Fumed Silica (Pyrogenic Silica) is formed by flame hydrolysis of silicon tetrachloride in hydrogen–oxygen flame. It is in Cosmetics (to thicken oils, prevent creasing in powders, control rheology in gels/serums).

Precipitated Silica is produced by precipitation of silica from sodium silicate solution with sulfuric acid. It is good thickener and absorbent, but less efficient than fumed silica. It is used in toothpaste (as abrasive or thickener).