Cosmetics & Personal Care

Due to its inert nature, Synthetic Amorphous Silica (SAS) is used in cosmetics and as a pharmaceutical excipient.

They provide thickening in pastes and ointments to inhibit the separation of components and maintain flow properties in powder products. They can also function as a carrier for fragrances or flavours.

In cosmetics, the highest volume goes into toothpaste, where it is the main thickener, to make paste behave as such, but also as a tuneable abrasive that cleans the teeth without damage. These two uses mean it is often the main component. Four INCIs (Silica, Hydrated Silica, Silica Silylate and Silica Dimethyl Silylate) cover the uses of silica in cosmetics.