murphyMontmorillonite
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Wilkonite, Alum bentonite, Bentonite magma, Colloidal clay, Aluminum silicate hydrate, Aluminium silicate hydrate, INS NO.558, Ci 77004
Synthetic
Emulsifier
Clay
Clean
OriginMined from sedimentary rock deposits formed from weathered volcanic ash and feldspar minerals. Purified through wet processing, sedimentation, and drying to isolate the clay fraction.
Montmorillonite is a subclass of smectite and a natural aluminomagnesium silicate clay, with potential protective effect for the digestive tract mucosa, and anti-inflammatory and anti-diarrheal activities. Although the exact mechanism of action has yet to be fully elucidated, upon administration, montmorillonite may adsorb bacteria, bacterial enterotoxins, viruses and other potentially diarrheagenic substances. It may also bind to mucin and modify mucus properties, thereby enhancing the mucus barrier function.
Solubility Insoluble in water and common organic solvents
Formula
Al2H2O12Si4
Mol. Weight
360.31
CAS #
1318-93-0
Form
Powder
State
NKRA; Dry Powder, Pellets or Large Crystals; Dry Powder; Other Solid; Dry Powder, Other Solid
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Oiliness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Absorbent
Bulking
Emulsion Stabilising
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Light Stabilizer
Viscosity Controlling
Quells irritation
Reduces redness
Reduces swelling
Shields from UV damage
Strengthens skin barrier
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 with qualifications (safe as used, but data insufficient for products that may be incidentally inhaled)
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Skin Irritant
1 study / 1 not irritating (CIR 809)
Not a Sensitizer
1 study / 1 not sensitizing (CIR 809)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on1.2–2%
Rinse-off0.1–3%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2022 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR