Illite
INCI: French green clay
Also known as: French green clay
Mineral-sourced natural thickener
EWG Safety Score
What Is Illite?
Illite is a mineral-sourced natural thickener that also has good absorbent properties and is sometimes referred to as French green clay. Illite has a stronger ability to calm skin irritated by influencing factors in skin that can lead to health issues. Interestingly, it's not as absorbent as many other clays (kaolin being one) which is why it's rarely used as the sole absorbent ingredient in products for oily or blemish-prone skin.
Benefits for Your Skin
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Journal of Medical Microbiology, January 2016, pages 19-27 Journal of Medical Microbiology, 2016
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Future Medicinal Chemistry, April 2014, pages 641-655 Future Medicinal Chemistry, 2014
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International Geology Review, July 2010, pages 745-770 International Geology Review, 2010
Related Ingredients
Alumina
Naturally occurring mineral also called aluminum oxide Used as an abrasive, thickener, and absorbent in cosmetics
Aluminum Silicate
Not available on this page
Bentonite
Clay derived from volcanic ash (which is purified before becoming a cosmetic ingredient)
Boron Nitride
Synthetic, inorganic powder, which in cosmetics has absorbent
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