bentonite
AKA: Swelling Clay
Synthetic
Emulsifier
Clay
Clean
Bentonite. A colloidal clay. Consists primarily of montmorillonite (CI 77004)
Formula
Al2O3·4SiO2·H2O
CAS #
1302-78-9
Form
Powder
State
Solid
Functions
Absorbent
Bulking
Emulsion Stabilising
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Viscosity Controlling
Absorbs Excess Oil
Adds Body & Volume
Stabilizes Emulsion
Controls Viscosity
Locks In Moisture
Antioxidant Protection
Adds volume
Keeps product blended
Controls product thickness
Traditional Use
A clay mineral used for thousands of years in traditional African and Native American skincare for detoxification and oil absorption. Named after Fort Benton, Wyoming where it was discovered, bentonite became formalized in cosmetics during the 20th century.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
Oiliness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed3 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR