What is Magnesium/Aluminum/Zinc/Hydroxide/Carbonate?
Magnesium/Aluminum/Zinc/Hydroxide/Carbonate, also known as Basic magnesium aluminium zinc carbonate, is a complex inorganic compound that is used in the cosmetic industry. It is derived from the reaction of magnesium, aluminum, and zinc hydroxides with carbon dioxide. This compound is also known by other names such as Hydrotalcite, and it is recognized for its layered structure, which is similar to that of clay minerals.
The use of this ingredient in cosmetics can be traced back to the ancient times when people used natural minerals for beautification and skin protection. Over time, with the advancement of technology and deeper understanding of chemistry, these minerals have been processed and refined to create more effective and safer cosmetic ingredients.
The production of Magnesium/Aluminum/Zinc/Hydroxide/Carbonate involves a process known as co-precipitation. In this method, solutions of magnesium, aluminum, and zinc salts are mixed together and then reacted with a solution of carbonate ions. The resulting precipitate is then filtered, washed, and dried to obtain the final product.
While there are other ingredients that serve similar functions in cosmetics, such as talc and kaolin, Magnesium/Aluminum/Zinc/Hydroxide/Carbonate stands out due to its unique layered structure. This structure allows it to absorb excess oil and release it slowly, making it an effective ingredient in anti-seborrheic products and deodorants.
Typically, you can find Magnesium/Aluminum/Zinc/Hydroxide/Carbonate in a variety of cosmetic products. It is commonly used in anti-acne products, deodorants, and oil-control products due to its oil-absorbing properties. It is also used in color cosmetics such as foundations and powders for its ability to improve product adherence and provide a smooth, matte finish.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Magnesium/Aluminum/Zinc/Hydroxide/Carbonate:
Anti-Seborrheic
One of the primary benefits of Magnesium/Aluminum/Zinc/Hydroxide/Carbonate is its anti-seborrheic properties. In layman’s terms, this means it helps to control the production of sebum, the oily substance produced by our skin’s sebaceous glands. Overproduction of sebum can lead to oily skin, clogged pores, and acne. By regulating sebum production, this ingredient can help to maintain a balanced skin condition, reducing the likelihood of skin issues such as acne and blackheads.
Deodorant
Another key benefit of Magnesium/Aluminum/Zinc/Hydroxide/Carbonate is its function as a deodorant. This doesn’t mean it has a fragrance or masks odors, but rather it helps to prevent the formation of body odors. It achieves this by creating an environment on the skin that is unfavorable for the bacteria that cause body odor, thereby reducing the likelihood of unpleasant smells. This makes it a valuable ingredient in many deodorants and antiperspirants.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Magnesium/Aluminum/Zinc/Hydroxide/Carbonate. There may be other benefits and uses that go beyond the scope of these official functions, but for the purpose of this article, we are focusing on the direct benefits that are officially recognized.
Safety Profile
Magnesium/Aluminum/Zinc/Hydroxide/Carbonate, also known as basic magnesium aluminium zinc carbonate, is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products. However, like any ingredient, it may not be suitable for everyone and may cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
Potential side effects of topical application of this ingredient may include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Burning sensation
- Dryness
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – There is currently insufficient data on the safety of topical usage of Magnesium/Aluminum/Zinc/Hydroxide/Carbonate during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to this ingredient are not common, but it is always recommended to perform a patch test before widespread usage to ensure no allergic reaction occurs.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant whose sources include CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) as well as other various publicly available sources.
