Is hydrated silica safe for sensitive skin?

When used in appropriate concentrations and particle sizes, hydrated silica can be gentle. However, excessive scrubbing or high concentrations might cause irritation for sensitive skin types.

What is the difference between silica and hydrated silica?

Hydrated silica is a form of silica (silicon dioxide) that contains water molecules. This hydration affects its physical properties, making it suitable for various cosmetic applications, including as a mild abrasive.

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Hydrated Silica

Hydrated silica is a form of silicon dioxide, a mineral found naturally in quartz and sand. In cosmetics, it functions as an abrasive, helping to polish surfaces like teeth or exfoliate skin. It can also absorb excess oil and provide opacity to formulations.

Abrasive, opacifier, absorbentVegan

BenefitMinimal 0.8 / 4

Oil control i2 / 4

Whether it can reduce excess sebum, shine, or greasiness — absorbents, sebum-regulating ingredients, and some acne actives.

Acne i1.5 / 4

Whether it can help acne-prone skin — reducing clogged pores, excess oil, acne-causing bacteria, inflammation, or breakouts.

Texture i1.5 / 4

Whether it can improve smoothness and surface texture — roughness, flaking, clogged pores, or unevenness. Exfoliating acids, retinoids, and smoothing moisturizers may score here.

RiskLow 0.5 / 4

Barrier disruption i1 / 4

Whether it can weaken or damage the skin barrier — harsh surfactants, strong exfoliants, high alcohol content, or overuse-prone actives.

Irritation i1 / 4

Risk of short-term irritation — stinging, burning, dryness, redness, or discomfort. Common for strong actives, acids, retinoids, fragrances, and harsh surfactants.

Eye irritation i0.5 / 4

Whether it may sting or irritate around the eyes. Relevant for sunscreens, fragrances, acids, surfactants, and volatile ingredients.

Rated by SpottyLabs' ingredient methodology, independent of brands.

What it helps with

gentle exfoliation
oil absorption
polishing agent

Things to watch

potential for over-exfoliation

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Products with Hydrated Silica

Sensodyne

Gentle Whitening Toothpaste

3.8/ 52/10/8

Dove

Exfoliating Body Scrub Crushed Macadamia & Rice Milk

3.7/ 55/12/11

Dove

Exfoliating Body Scrub Pomegranate Seeds & Shea Butter

3.7/ 53/13/11

Biomed

Superwhite Complete Care Natural Toothpaste

3.7/ 53/18/11

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Frequently asked questions

Is hydrated silica safe for sensitive skin?: When used in appropriate concentrations and particle sizes, hydrated silica can be gentle. However, excessive scrubbing or high concentrations might cause irritation for sensitive skin types.
What is the difference between silica and hydrated silica?: Hydrated silica is a form of silica (silicon dioxide) that contains water molecules. This hydration affects its physical properties, making it suitable for various cosmetic applications, including as a mild abrasive.