Product description

Yellow illite is a natural clay-based mineral, used mainly in cleansing and mattifying cosmetics. It is a mixture of Illite and Kaolin. It is extracted by mining from natural deposits, then mechanically cleaned, dried and finely ground into a powder suitable for cosmetic use.
The yellow colour is due to the natural mineral composition of the deposit. In practice, yellow clay is popular in 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 to reduce shine and unify the appearance of the skin.
• Absorbs excess sebum and contributes to clearer feeling skin.
• Binds impurities - suitable for cleansing masks and wraps.
• Improves texture - gives powders and dry blends a softer, velvety feel.
• Mineral filler - also suitable for waterless products where you want a "drier" finish.

Suitable for products such as

• Facial masks - cleansing and mattifying.
• Cleansing powders and powder masks (for mixing just before use).
• Body wraps and bath mixes.
• Deodorants and body powders - to absorb moisture and improve the feel of the skin.
• Soaps - to modify the appearance and sensoriality (according to the recipe).

Use in formulation

• Insoluble in: water and oils - used as a powder ingredient (suspension/dispersion).
• Miscible with: aqueous phases (forming a paste), hydrolates and gels; in anhydrous products as a powder additive.
• Compatible with: emulsions, tensides, oils and butters (as powder phase); often combined with humectants (e.g. glycerine) for a more pleasant feel in masks.
• Technology tip: sift the powder and add gradually; for a smooth texture, first mix in a smaller amount of liquid to make a slurry and then add the rest.

Safety and storage

• Avoid inhaling fine dust; work slowly and in a well-ventilated area when handling the powder.
• Avoid contact with eyes; flush with water in case of contact.
• Store dry and in tightly closed containers to prevent the raw material from binding moisture and odours from the surrounding area.
• For sensitive skin, choose a shorter mask duration and moisturise afterwards.

Ingredients

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

FAQ

To learn more about the benefits and uses of cosmetic clays, read our article Cosmetic Clays and Their Uses.
See also other cosmetic clays in the Handymade.sk offer.