A mineral derived from the metal ore known as aluminum. It is commonly used as an abrasive and also acts as a thickening viscosity controlling agent (and thus as a bulking agent). Alumina is also a great opacifier.
Functions
Abrasive,
Abrasive
Abrasives 'physically' exfoliate the skin (i.e., manually remove dead skin cells) by rubbing against its surface.
Abrasive,
Abrasive
Abrasives 'physically' exfoliate the skin (i.e., manually remove dead skin cells) by rubbing against its surface.
Absorbent,
Absorbent
Absorbent – soaks up excess oil from the skin.
Absorbent,
Absorbent
Absorbent – soaks up excess oil from the skin.
Anticaking,
Anticaking
Anticaking – prevents the formation of clumps.
Anticaking,
Anticaking
Anticaking – prevents the formation of clumps.
Bulking,
Bulking
Bulking – increases the volume of a product.
Bulking,
Bulking
Bulking – increases the volume of a product.
Opacifying,
Opacifying
Opacifying – reflects light and creates opaque products.
Opacifying,
Opacifying
Opacifying – reflects light and creates opaque products.
Viscosity Controlling
Viscosity Controlling
Viscosity controlling – changes the thickness of a product.
Viscosity Controlling
Viscosity Controlling
Viscosity controlling – changes the thickness of a product.
Origin
Naturally occurring
Naturally occurring
These are ingredients initially present in nature, such as elements (Zinc, Gold, or Silver), minerals, or water.
Naturally occurring
Naturally occurring
These are ingredients initially present in nature, such as elements (Zinc, Gold, or Silver), minerals, or water.
Overview
Alumina is the shortened term for aluminum oxide, a mineral derived from the metal ore known as aluminum.
This white powder is commonly used as an abrasive, which means it would have applications in exfoliating skincare products.
In addition, alumina can act as a thickening viscosity controlling agent, and thus, as a bulking agent, as well. It can also serve as an anti-caking ingredient because it can absorb moisture that would otherwise cause a product to clump up.
Finally, alumina is a great opacifier, and it is often paired with titanium dioxide for the purpose of producing a bright white appearance to skincare products.