
General Description
Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is a naturally occurring, soft, siliceous sedimentary rock that crumbles into a fine white or off-white powder. Composed mainly of fossilized diatoms, it is rich in silica and widely used in various industries, including cosmetics. DE is available for buying in bulk, wholesale sales, and direct manufacture for beauty and personal care applications.
Uses in the Cosmetics Industry
Diatomaceous Earth is a popular ingredient in skincare and cosmetic formulations due to its absorbent, exfoliating, and mattifying properties. It is commonly used in:
- Facial scrubs and exfoliants – Helps remove dead skin cells for a smoother complexion.
- Face masks and powders – Controls excess oil and provides a mattifying effect.
- Toothpaste and oral care – Acts as a natural abrasive for effective cleaning.
- Deodorants – Absorbs moisture and neutralizes odors.
Beauty brands and manufacturers seeking wholesale Diatomaceous Earth for sale prefer it due to its natural and non-toxic profile, making it a valued addition to clean beauty formulations.
Side Effects & Hazards
While food-grade Diatomaceous Earth is generally considered safe for topical use, excessive inhalation of fine DE powder can cause respiratory irritation. Prolonged exposure to crystalline silica-containing DE (industrial-grade) may pose lung health risks. To minimize hazards:
- Use cosmetic-grade DE for beauty and skincare applications.
- Avoid inhaling fine powder during manufacturing, handling, or wholesale distribution.
- Store in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent clumping and contamination.
Where to Buy Diatomaceous Earth?
For businesses looking to buy Diatomaceous Earth in bulk, numerous wholesale suppliers and manufacturers provide high-quality, cosmetic-grade DE for sale. Whether you need it for formulations, private labeling, or large-scale production, sourcing from reputable suppliers ensures purity and compliance with industry standards.
CAS Number: 61790-53-2
INCI: Solum Diatomeae
Composition: Diatomaceous Earth is primarily composed of silica, with varying amounts of other minerals such as aluminum oxide, iron oxide, and calcium oxide. It also contains organic matter derived from the fossilized diatoms.
Purity Grade: No purity grade applicable
Appearance: Diatomaceous Earth typically appears as a fine, white to light gray powder with a porous and abrasive texture.
Solubility: Diatomaceous Earth is insoluble in water and organic solvents. It does not dissolve but can disperse in water to form a suspension.
Preservation: Diatomaceous Earth itself does not require preservation as it is inert and stable. However, it should be stored in a dry environment to prevent moisture absorption and maintain its properties.
Storage: Store in a closed container at a dry place at room
temperature
Raw Material Source: Diatomaceous Earth is formed from the fossilized remains of diatoms, which are microscopic algae found in freshwater and marine environments. It is mined from natural deposits, primarily in regions with ancient lakebeds or oceanic sediments.
Manufacture: Diatomaceous Earth is mined from natural deposits using conventional mining techniques. The mined material is then processed to remove impurities and refine the particle size and purity. This may involve crushing, grinding, and sieving the raw material to produce the desired grade of Diatomaceous Earth powder.
Animal Testing: Not animal tested
GMO: GMO-free (does not contain plant-derived components)
Vegan: Does not contain animal-derived components
Proposition: DIATOMACEOUS EARTH ( SOLUM DIATOMEAE ) complies with relevant regulations and guidelines.
Warning: Avoid contact with eyes and skin. Use appropriateprotective equipment when handling.
THE STORY OF DIATOMACEOUS EARTH
Diatomaceous Earth: The Natural Mineral Exfoliant for Pure, Polished Skin
Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is a naturally occurring silica-rich mineral powder made from ancient fossilized diatoms. Known for its gentle exfoliating, absorbent, and purifying properties, it is widely used in scrubs, masks, cleansing powders, and natural deodorants. It provides mild physical exfoliation without scratching the skin.
Harvested from Fossilized Diatoms & Purified for Cosmetic Use
Diatomaceous Earth is formed over millions of years from the fossilized remains of microscopic algae (diatoms).
The raw mineral is:
• Mined from natural diatomite deposits
• Purified
• Heat-treated
• Milled into fine, cosmetic-grade powder
TRCkem supplies ultra-fine, low-metal, cosmetic-grade Diatomaceous Earth suitable for face and body formulations.
Exfoliate. Absorb. Purify.
Core benefits in personal-care and beauty:
✅ Gentle physical exfoliation to remove dead cells & impurities
✅ High oil and sebum absorption, great for oily skin
✅ Improves skin smoothness & clarity
✅ Adds body and slip to powder products
✅ Natural, eco-friendly, non-toxic mineral
Used in: exfoliating scrubs, masks, cleansing powders, deodorants, foot care, body polishing products, and dry shampoos.
Natural, Safe & Multi-Functional — Use with Proper Handling
• Typical use level: 1–15% depending on exfoliation or absorption level
• Insoluble; disperse into powders, gels, scrubs, or clay masks
• Avoid inhaling raw powder — use masks during production
• Non-toxic, non-reactive, and safe for skin use
• Store sealed, dry, and protected from moisture
• Approved for use in natural and clean-beauty formulations
• Available in fine, ultra-fine, and food/cosmetic grades
Formulator’s Queries, We Answered
1. What is the CAS number and INCI name of Diatomaceous Earth?
The INCI name of Diatomaceous Earth is Solum Diatomeae.
The CAS number is 61790-53-2.
2. What is Diatomaceous Earth?
Diatomaceous Earth, also known as Solum Diatomeae, is a naturally occurring, soft sedimentary rock made from fossilized diatoms. It is processed into a fine, white powder and used in personal care products for its abrasive, absorbent, and mattifying properties.
3. What are the key functions of Diatomaceous Earth in personal care products?
Diatomaceous Earth serves multiple functions, including:
Exfoliation: Acts as a mild abrasive in scrubs and cleansers.
Oil Absorption: Helps absorb excess oil in skincare and haircare products.
Mattifying Agent: Reduces shine and enhances the texture of cosmetics.
Thickening Agent: Improves the consistency of creams and lotions.
Anti-Caking Agent: Prevents clumping in powders and makeup formulations.
4. What types of personal care products contain Diatomaceous Earth?
Diatomaceous Earth is commonly found in:
Facial & Body Scrubs – Provides gentle exfoliation.
Dry Shampoos & Hair Care Products – Absorbs excess oil and refreshes hair.
Face Masks & Clay-Based Formulations – Enhances skin purification.
Loose Powders & Makeup Products – Improves texture and prevents caking.
Toothpastes & Oral Care Products – Acts as a mild polishing agent.
5. What are the benefits of using Diatomaceous Earth in formulations?
Natural & Safe: Derived from fossilized diatoms and free from synthetic chemicals.
Non-Toxic & Biodegradable: Environmentally friendly and skin-compatible.
Enhances Skin & Hair Health: Removes impurities and excess sebum.
Lightweight & Non-Irritating: Suitable for sensitive skin types.
6. How is Diatomaceous Earth used in formulations?
Typically used at 0.5% to 5% concentration, depending on the formulation.
Can be blended into powders, creams, and liquid formulations.
Works well in both water-based and oil-based systems.
7. Is Diatomaceous Earth safe for use in personal care products?
Yes, Diatomaceous Earth is considered safe for cosmetic and personal care use when processed correctly. It is commonly used in skincare, haircare, and oral care products. However, formulators should ensure the product is cosmetic grade and free from crystalline silica to prevent inhalation hazards.