Messi Biology states that within numerous cosmetic products such as loose powders, foundations, and facial masks, lies a low-profile yet highly efficient mineral ingredient: Magnesium Carbonate (MgCO3). Derived from natural sources, this white powder has become a favored “multi-functional player” for formulators due to its porous structure and weak alkalinity, silently protecting makeup texture and skin health.
Superior Oil Control and Visual Effects
The most well-known function of magnesium carbonate is oil control. Its particle surfaces are covered with micron-sized pores, acting like an “oil-absorbing sponge” to physically adsorb excess sebum secreted by the skin. Notably, it preferentially adsorbs oil over water, allowing it to reduce shine without disrupting the skin’s moisture balance.
Experimental data shows that loose powder containing 5% magnesium carbonate can reduce surface skin oil by 30% within two hours, performing better than traditional talc. Additionally, its irregular plate-like particles can diffusely reflect light, achieving a natural matte finish that soft-focuses pores and fine lines for a more refined look.
Extended Functional Benefits
Beyond oil absorption, it offers excellent auxiliary functions:
- Anti-Marking & Odor Control: Through ion exchange, magnesium carbonate reduces salt crystallization in sweat, preventing sports cosmetics from leaving white marks. Its weak alkalinity (pH ≈ 8-9) neutralizes acidic sweat metabolites, inhibiting bacterial growth and effectively controlling body odor.
- Texture Maintenance: In powdered cosmetics, it acts as an anti-caking agent, ensuring that products like eyeshadows and blushes remain loose and easy to apply.
Core Applications in Makeup
Magnesium carbonate is an indispensable core ingredient in base makeup. Adding 3%-5% to loose or pressed powders significantly enhances makeup longevity; certain long-wear oil-control powders utilize this ingredient to achieve 12-hour wear. In liquid foundations, appropriate additions can specifically target T-zone oiliness, making the finish more natural and adherent.
Performance in Skincare and Sun Protection
In the skincare sector, magnesium carbonate also performs brilliantly:
- Deep Cleansing: When combined with bentonite in clay masks, it deeply adsorbs blackheads and sebum while providing gentle exfoliation.
- Oil Regulation: In face creams specifically for oily skin, it helps regulate sebum secretion to prevent clogged pores.
- Sunscreen Enhancement: In sun protection products, it prevents the settling of UV filters and provides a matte texture, eliminating the greasy experience often associated with sunscreens. It is also commonly used in deodorants for its dual action of sweat absorption and odor removal.
Safety and Quality Standards
Magnesium carbonate demonstrates excellent safety for consumers. As a naturally derived mineral, it is non-toxic, non-corrosive, and biocompatible. Skin patch tests have confirmed it is gentle and non-irritating, making it suitable for sensitive skin. Within the body, it decomposes into magnesium ions and carbon dioxide, posing no risk of residual buildup.
The EU Cosmetic Regulation (EC 1223/2009) sets no upper concentration limit, requiring only that the powder fineness meets inhalation safety standards. Cosmetic-grade magnesium carbonate must meet rigorous standards:
- Purity:
≥\ge≥98% - Particle Size: Controlled between 1-10μm to ensure a silky touch.
- Heavy Metals: Must comply with national standards (Lead
≤\le≤10mg/kg, Arsenic≤\le≤3mg/kg).
Compared to talc, magnesium carbonate not only eliminates the risk of potential asbestos contamination but also offers superior oil absorption and skin feel, making it a preferred ingredient for “green” cosmetics.
Future Outlook
From oil control and long-wear makeup to gentle skincare, magnesium carbonate occupies a vital position in the cosmetic industry due to its versatility and high safety profile. With the advancement of particle engineering technology, future magnesium carbonate—enhanced by surface modification or composite shifting—will enable innovative functions such as dynamic oil control and intelligent release, bringing even more possibilities to the beauty industry.