murphykaolin
AKA: White Clay
Synthetic
Colorant
Clay
Clean
OriginKaolin is derived from clay minerals, primarily aluminum silicate compounds found in natural deposits worldwide. It is extracted through mining and refined by washing, drying, and milling processes.
Naturally occurring substances, kaolin (CI 77004)
Formula
Al2Si2O5(OH)4
Mol. Weight
258.16
CAS #
1332-58-7
Form
Powder
State
Solid
Skin Types
●all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
Oiliness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Abrasive
Absorbent
Anticaking
Bulking
Colorant
Gives the product its color. Purely aesthetic — makes the formula look good in the jar but does nothing for your skin.
Opacifying
Physical Exfoliant
Absorbs Excess Oil
Prevents Clumping
Adds Body & Volume
Fights Bacteria
Locks In Moisture
Brightens Skin
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.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
3 studies / 3 not sensitizing (CIR 809)
Not an Eye Irritant
1 study / 1 not irritating (CIR 809)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
3 studies / 1 irritating / 1 mixed / 1 not irritating / reactions moderate (CIR 809)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.0015–53.2%
Rinse-off0.0005–33%
0%50%100%
Reg. limit 20%
CIR reported use · 2022 survey
FDA OTC limit (Skin Protectant): 20%. 21 CFR 347.10
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR