Hydrated Silica

Hydrated silica is a porous mineral form of silicon dioxide processed for cosmetic use. It absorbs excess oil, gives a soft-focus matte finish, boosts slip and thickness, and offers mild polishing to refine texture.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A mineral powder that soaks up oil and blurs the look of pores.
Category
Oil Control, Tone/Texture
Type
Mineral

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Helps cut visible shine and leaves skin looking smoother and more refined. Can create a blurring effect that minimizes the look of pores throughout the day.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Common in mattifying primers, setting powders, and oil-control cleansers to keep makeup looking fresh. Also found in gentle exfoliating scrubs for a polished feel.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Generally well tolerated and non-reactive on skin. In scrub formats, excessive pressure can feel abrasive, and loose powders should not be inhaled. May cause minor dryness on very dry skin.

Is Hydrated Silica a Good Ingredient?

It's Good because this porous mineral effectively absorbs sebum and scatters light for a smoother, matte look, with strong performance, stability, and inertness, though it works as a texture agent rather than a treatment active, which is why it doesn't rate higher.