Stearalkonium Bentonite

Stearalkonium Bentonite is a quaternary ammonium-treated bentonite clay for cosmetic formulations. It gels oils, suspends pigments, reduces syneresis, and boosts slip and structure in anhydrous and emulsion systems.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A modified clay that thickens oil-based formulas and suspends pigment.
Category
Tone/Texture, Oil Control
Type
Rheology Modifier

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

It creates creamier, more stable textures that apply evenly without separating, and can contribute to a more controlled, semi-matte finish in oil-rich products.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

It's used in balm sticks, oil gels, cream foundations, and pomades to keep formulas uniform and easy to spread.

Comedogenic Rating

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

Safety

It's typically inert in finished products, but can cause mild irritation, especially with eye exposure or in sensitive users. Avoid inhaling loose powders during handling. No common cosmetic regulatory limitations are noted.

Is Stearalkonium Bentonite a Good Ingredient?

It rates Good as a proven oil-gellant and suspending agent that improves formula stability, consistency, and payoff at low use levels. The quaternary ammonium treatment may pose a mild irritation risk for very sensitive skin, though typical leave-on levels are low, which keeps it a notch below Great.

Products with Stearalkonium Bentonite

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