Clay
Clay is a cosmetic ingredient used as an absorbent, binding agent. It is used in 22 products in our dataset. It is regulated in the EU (listed in a Cosmetics Regulation annex). PubMed carries 690 studies of its skin or topical use.
| INCI name | CLAY |
| Function | ABSORBENT, BINDING, BULKING, SKIN CONDITIONING |
| CAS number | - |
| Prevalence | 22 products (0.02% of dataset) |
| Most used in | Skincare |
| EU status | Restricted (annex ) |
| Scientific studies | 690 on PubMed (skin/cosmetic/topical) |
| Monthly searches | 90,500 |
Used in
Wash Off Masks 45.5%Body Scrubs 9.1%Exfoliators 9.1%Face Cleansers 9.1%BB, CC, Tinted Moisturizers 4.5%Body Washes 4.5%
Frequently asked
- What does Clay do in skincare?
- Clay functions as an absorbent, binding agent in cosmetic formulas.
- Is Clay allowed in cosmetics?
- Yes, but it is regulated in the EU — it appears in a Cosmetics Regulation annex with usage conditions.
- What products contain Clay?
- It is most commonly found in Skincare products, especially wash off masks (45.5% of its uses).
Manufacturers with experience using Clay
Match with vetted US contract manufacturers that have hands-on experience formulating with this ingredient.