Product description

French Montmorillonite is a natural layered clay from the smectite group, known for its high ability to bind sebum, impurities and ions on its surface. It is formed by geological transformation of volcanic ashes and clayey sediments; after mining, the raw material is purified, graded according to fineness and, for cosmetic use, processed into a fine powder with controlled quality.
Compared to kaolin, montmorillonite is usually more strongly absorbent and, in contact with water, can swell more markedly and create a “gel-like” feel. For this reason, it is often used in cleansing and mattifying masks for oilier or problem skin, but for sensitive or dry skin the dosage and exposure time are adjusted carefully.

Key benefits

• High sebum absorption – helps to mattify the skin and reduce shine.
• Adsorption of impurities – suitable for cleansing masks and body wraps.
• Support of a clear pore appearance – in masks it leaves a feeling of “cleansed” skin.
• Texture improvement – in powder products it provides a smoother, softer skin feel.
• Natural filler – also suitable for anhydrous products and colour cosmetics.

Suitable for products such as

• Cleansing and mattifying face masks (especially for oily and combination skin).
• Dry cleansing powders.
• Deodorants and body powders – absorption of moisture and improvement of skin feel.
• Powder exfoliants (gentle) and body wraps.
• Soaps – improved slip and sensorial properties (depending on the formula).

Use in formulation

• Insoluble in: water and oils – used as a dispersion/suspension.
• Miscible with: aqueous and oil systems (as a powder component); in low-viscosity products it may settle over time, so it is advisable to use an appropriate thickening system.
• Compatible with: common oils, butters, emulsifiers and powder components (starches, zinc oxide); in formulations with acids and salts it is advisable to test stability, because clays can affect viscosity and skin feel.
• Dosage (indicative):
  • Masks: medium to higher percentages according to the strength of the cleansing effect and skin type.
  • Deodorants and powders: according to the desired absorption and softness of feel.
  • Cleansing powders: as a supportive component for cleansing and mattifying effect.
• Technological tip: for a smooth texture, sift the montmorillonite and add it gradually; in masks you can pre-mix it into part of the glycerin or oil to reduce lump formation.

Safety and storage

• Avoid inhalation of fine dust; when working with the powder, work slowly and in a well-ventilated area.
• Avoid contact with eyes; in case of contact, rinse with water.
• Store in a tightly closed container, in a dry place, so that it does not bind moisture and odours from the surroundings.
• For masks, adjust the contact time to the skin type; for sensitive or dry skin, a shorter exposure and subsequent hydration is suitable.

FAQ

See also other clays and clay minerals available on Handymade.sk.

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