What it is
Magnesium Aluminometasilicate is a synthetic inorganic silicate powder with a high surface area that readily takes up oils and water. In formulas it helps control texture and flow, prevents caking in powders, and gives a soft, mattified feel by absorbing excess sebum and reducing shine. These properties make it common in sunscreens and base makeup where a smooth, non-greasy finish is desired.
Safety & warnings
As an inert, insoluble mineral powder it has a long record of good tolerability in topical products and is not associated with sensitization. As with any fine powder, care to avoid inhaling loose airborne particles applies during manufacture or with spray and powder formats.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic; manufactured as a refined inorganic silicate rather than mined directly.
Questions everyone asks
What does magnesium aluminometasilicate do in sunscreen?
It absorbs oil and helps control texture, contributing a smooth, matte, non-greasy finish and keeping powder formats from caking.
Is it the same as talc?
No. It is a synthetic magnesium aluminum silicate with high oil-absorbing capacity, chemically distinct from talc.