Is tapioca starch the same as corn starch?

While both are starches used for similar purposes, tapioca starch is derived from the cassava plant, whereas corn starch comes from corn. They have slightly different textures and properties.

Can tapioca starch clog pores?

In cosmetic formulations, tapioca starch is generally considered non-comedogenic. Its primary role is to absorb oil on the skin's surface, rather than to penetrate and clog pores.

Home › Ingredients › Tapioca Starch

Tapioca Starch

Also known as: Manihot Esculenta Root Starch, Cassava Starch

Tapioca starch is a natural powder derived from the cassava plant. In cosmetics, it primarily functions as an absorbent, helping to reduce shine and provide a matte finish. It can also be used as a thickening agent to improve product texture.

Absorbent, thickenerVegan

BenefitMinimal 0.8 / 4

Oil control i1.5 / 4

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

RiskVery low 0 / 4

Rated by SpottyLabs' ingredient methodology, independent of brands.

What it helps with

absorbs excess oil
mattifies skin
improves product texture

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Products with Tapioca Starch

Eucerin

UreaRepair PLUS 10% Urea Lotion

4.6/ 521/7/4

L'Occitane en Provence

Karité Confort Ultra Rich Body Cream

4.2/ 511/9/2

Eucerin

UreaRepair PLUS 5% Urea Hand Cream

4/ 517/6/4

Eucerin

pH5 Emulsione Corpo Idratante

3.9/ 514/7/5

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Frequently asked questions

Is tapioca starch the same as corn starch?: While both are starches used for similar purposes, tapioca starch is derived from the cassava plant, whereas corn starch comes from corn. They have slightly different textures and properties.
Can tapioca starch clog pores?: In cosmetic formulations, tapioca starch is generally considered non-comedogenic. Its primary role is to absorb oil on the skin's surface, rather than to penetrate and clog pores.