Product description

Yellow illite is a natural mineral raw material based on clay, used mainly in cleansing and mattifying cosmetics. It is a blend of Illite and Kaolin. It is obtained by mining from natural deposits, then mechanically purified, dried and finely milled into a powder suitable for cosmetic use.
The yellow coloration is determined by the natural mineral composition of the deposit. In practice, yellow clay is popular for masks, powder cleansing blends and body wraps, where it helps bind excess sebum and leaves the skin fresh and mattified.

Key benefits

• Mattifying effect – helps reduce shine and unify the appearance of the skin.
• Absorbs excess sebum and contributes to a cleaner feel of the skin.
• Binds impurities – suitable for cleansing masks and wraps.
• Improves texture – gives powders and dry blends a finer, velvety feel.
• Mineral filler – also suitable for anhydrous products where you want a “drier” finish.

Suitable for products such as

• Face masks – cleansing and mattifying.
• Cleansing powders and powder masks (to be mixed immediately before use).
• Body wraps and bath blends.
• Deodorants and body powders – for moisture absorption and improved skin feel.
• Soaps – adjustment of appearance and sensorial properties (according to the formula).

Use in formulation

• Insoluble in: water and oils – used as a powder component (suspension/dispersion).
• Mixable with: aqueous phases (forms a paste), hydrolats and gels; in anhydrous products as a powder additive.
• Compatible with: emulsions, surfactants, oils and butters (as the powder phase); for a more pleasant feel in masks, it is often combined with humectants (e.g. glycerin).
• Technological tip: sieve the powder and add gradually; for a smooth texture, first disperse it in a small amount of liquid to make a slurry and only then add the remainder.

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 dry place and in a tightly closed container so that the raw material does not bind moisture and odours from the surroundings.
• For sensitive skin, choose a shorter mask application time and follow with hydration.

Composition

• Illite (typically approximately 75 % ± 5)
• Kaolin (typically approximately 25 % ± 3)

FAQ

If you want to learn more about the benefits and use of cosmetic clays, read our article Cosmetic clays and their use.
Also have a look at other cosmetic clays offered by Handymade.sk.