What is Silver Borosilicate?
Silver Borosilicate, also known as Silver oxide, is a unique cosmetic ingredient that is a product of the reaction between boron oxide, silica, and sodium oxide. This complex compound is derived from silver, a precious metal known for its antimicrobial properties, and borosilicate, a type of glass that is highly resistant to thermal shock. The combination of these elements results in a compound that is both beneficial to the skin and safe for cosmetic use.
The use of silver in cosmetics dates back to ancient civilizations, where it was prized for its healing and preserving properties. However, the incorporation of borosilicate into the mix is a more recent development, brought about by the need for more effective and stable cosmetic ingredients. Silver Borosilicate is typically synthesized in a lab, where silver oxide is carefully reacted with boron oxide, silica, and sodium oxide under controlled conditions to ensure the highest level of purity and effectiveness.
While there are other antimicrobial and skin conditioning ingredients available in the cosmetic industry, Silver Borosilicate stands out due to its unique composition and properties. Unlike other ingredients that may only offer one benefit, Silver Borosilicate serves a dual purpose by providing both antimicrobial action and skin conditioning benefits. This makes it a versatile ingredient that can enhance the effectiveness of various cosmetic products.
Typically, Silver Borosilicate is used in products that are designed to stay on the skin for extended periods, such as moisturizers and serums. Its antimicrobial properties make it an excellent choice for products that are meant to protect the skin from environmental stressors, while its skin conditioning benefits help to keep the skin soft, smooth, and healthy. Despite its metallic origin, Silver Borosilicate is often used in color cosmetics as well, such as eyeshadows and highlighters, to give them a unique shimmer and shine.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Silver Borosilicate:
Antimicrobial Properties
One of the primary benefits of Silver Borosilicate is its antimicrobial properties. In simple terms, this means that it can help to kill or slow down the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. This is particularly beneficial in cosmetics as it can help to prevent the product from spoiling and prolong its shelf life. Moreover, when applied to the skin, it can help to protect against harmful bacteria and other microbes that can cause infections and skin issues.
Skin Conditioning
Another key function of Silver Borosilicate is its ability to condition the skin. This essentially means that it helps to soften and smooth the skin, making it feel more comfortable and look healthier. It achieves this by forming a protective layer on the skin’s surface, which helps to retain moisture and prevent dryness. This can be particularly beneficial for those with dry or sensitive skin, as it can help to alleviate discomfort and improve the skin’s overall appearance.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized functions of Silver Borosilicate as per the CosIng Database. There may be other potential benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond these functions, but further research would be needed to confirm these.
Safety Profile
Silver Borosilicate 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 all skin types and there is always a potential for allergic reactions.
Some potential side effects of topical application of Silver Borosilicate include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Skin irritation
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – There is currently insufficient data on the safety of topical use of Silver Borosilicate during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Therefore, it is recommended that you consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to Silver Borosilicate are not common, but it is always recommended to do a patch test before using any new product containing this ingredient. Apply a small amount of the product to a patch of skin on your inner forearm and wait 24 hours to see if there is any reaction.
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, using sources including the 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.
