What it is
Silicic Acid is a compound of silicon, oxygen, and hydrogen that is closely related to silica and serves as a precursor to silica gels and other silicon-based materials. In cosmetics it is used as an absorbent and bulking agent and can help control viscosity and texture. In sunscreens it is a formulation aid rather than a UV filter.
Safety & warnings
Silicon-oxygen materials of this type are generally well tolerated in cosmetic formulas and are not associated with comedogenicity. As with other fine inorganic powders, inhalation of the raw material is avoided during manufacturing.
Origin & sourcing
Typically synthetic or mineral-derived; it is a simple silicon-oxygen compound related to and convertible into silica.
Questions everyone asks
How is silicic acid related to silica?
It is a silicon-oxygen compound closely related to silica and can serve as a precursor to silica gels and similar materials.
What is its role in skincare?
It acts as an absorbent, bulking, and viscosity-controlling ingredient that supports the texture of a formula.