Diatomaceous Earth

Benefits
Cleansing

What is Diatomaceous Earth?

Diatomaceous earth derives from the fossilized remains of diatoms, ancient aquatic algae with silica-based cell walls, forming a soft, porous, white-to-off-white powder rich in amorphous silica dioxide. In cosmetics, it appears in exfoliating scrubs, purifying masks, dry shampoos, powders, and some emulsions. Functionally, its jagged yet fine particles provide mild mechanical exfoliation by dislodging surface impurities and dead cells during rinsing. The highly absorbent honeycomb-like structure soaks up oils and water, reducing shine and aiding in lightweight, non-greasy finishes. It also enhances powder flow by preventing clumping, adds volume for better product handling, and scatters light to create opacity, improving visual consistency in formulations. Prized for its natural origin, it integrates well across product types without altering core chemistry.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1-2 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Abrasive
Provides gentle mechanical exfoliation and polishing, helping remove surface dead skin cells and improve smoothness and slip in scrubs and cleansers.
Absorbent
Absorbs water and/or sebum to reduce greasiness and shine, improve dry touch, and help keep powders and emulsions feeling lighter on skin.
Anticaking agent
Prevents powders from clumping by reducing moisture pickup and improving flow, keeping loose and pressed powders uniform during storage and use.
Bulking agent
Increases mass/volume to build structure and improve handling, commonly used to adjust feel, spread, and cost-in-use without acting as a primary active.
Opacifying agent
Makes a formula less transparent to create a creamy, opaque look; can also help visually mask suspended particles and improve aesthetic uniformity.

Benefits

Supports surface cleansing by absorbing excess oil and impurities.

Delivers mild physical exfoliation for smoother texture.

Enhances product stability and feel as a bulking and anticaking aid.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals with oily or combination skin seeking mattification.
People sensitive to physical exfoliants.
Users preferring natural abrasives in scrubs and masks.
Individuals prone to irritation from particulate ingredients.
Those wanting lightweight, non-greasy powder-based products.
Those with dust inhalation concerns using pure powders.

Safety Notes

  • Low hazard rating from EWG assessment.
  • Cosmetic-grade amorphous form safe for topical use per expert reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions about Diatomaceous Earth

What is diatomaceous earth made of?

Fossilized diatom skeletons, mainly amorphous silica, forming a porous powder.

Is it comedogenic?

Rated 0, unlikely to clog pores or contribute to breakouts.

Can it irritate skin?

Generally low irritation potential in rinse-off and bound cosmetic forms.