What it is
Quaternium-90 bentonite is bentonite clay surface-treated with the quaternary ammonium compound quaternium-90, which makes it compatible with and able to thicken oil phases. In sunscreens it is used to suspend mineral UV filters and pigments and to give oil-based and water-in-oil systems stable structure. This helps prevent settling and maintain an even texture throughout the product's use.
Safety & warnings
Organically modified clays like this are generally well tolerated with low irritation potential at typical use levels. It is not a fragrance allergen and, as an inorganic clay, is not associated with comedogenicity concerns.
Origin & sourcing
Semi-synthetic; it is naturally sourced bentonite clay chemically modified with a quaternary ammonium compound.
Questions everyone asks
What is quaternium-90 bentonite used for?
It thickens the oil phase and keeps mineral filters and pigments evenly suspended so the formula stays uniform.
Is quaternium-90 bentonite a natural ingredient?
It begins as natural bentonite clay but is chemically modified to function in oil-based formulas, making it semi-synthetic.