Understanding MatteSilica™ Powders for Your Formulations

MatteSilica™ powders are specially processed silica powders designed to enhance cosmetic formulations by providing a smooth, matte finish and excellent oil absorption. These spherical, porous particles come in various types, each offering unique benefits for different product needs.

Key Characteristics of MatteSilica™ Powders

• Oil Absorption: All MatteSilica™ types are highly effective at absorbing excess oil on the skin, helping to control shine and provide a matte look without causing dryness. Standard types absorb 1.4-1.5 times their weight, while XL versions offer significantly higher absorption.
• Texture Enhancement: They improve the slip and glide of creams and powders, making products easier to spread and giving a luxurious, powdery feel.
• Matte Finish: When applied, MatteSilica™ creates a soft, matte appearance on the skin, effectively reducing shine.
• Versatility: These powders can be incorporated into various formulations, including creams, gels (though they may make gels cloudy), and loose or pressed powders.
• Cost-Effective: Compared to other texture-enhancing powders like SiliSilk™, AminoSilk™, or BB Micro Silk™, MatteSilica™ offers a cost-effective solution while still delivering excellent performance in terms of slip and oil absorption.

Comparing Different MatteSilica™ Types

MySkinRecipes offers a range of MatteSilica™ products, each tailored for specific performance characteristics:

• MatteSilica 3™ (3 Micron) - Product ID: 10043

  • Particle Size: Average 2-4 microns.
  • Feel: Smaller particles adhere better to the skin and provide a feeling of moisture.
  • Oil Absorption: Standard (1.4-1.5 times its weight).
  • Best for: Formulations where better skin adherence and a slightly more moist feel are desired, along with a smooth, matte finish.

• MatteSilica 5™ (5 Micron) - Product ID: 518

  • Particle Size: Average 5-7 microns.
  • Feel: Provides a slippery and smooth feel.
  • Oil Absorption: Standard (1.4-1.5 times its weight).
  • Best for: General-purpose applications requiring a good balance of slip, oil absorption, and a matte look.

• MatteSilica 10™ (10 Micron) - Product ID: 10044

  • Particle Size: Average 9-11 microns.
  • Feel: Larger particles adhere less to the skin but provide a very smooth feel.
  • Oil Absorption: Standard (1.4-1.5 times its weight).
  • Best for: Formulations where a very smooth, non-tacky feel is paramount, with moderate oil absorption.

• MatteSilica 5XL™ (5 Micron, Max Oil Absorb) - Product ID: 679

  • Particle Size: Average 5-7 microns.
  • Feel: Slippery and dry, similar to standard MatteSilica™, but less soft than MatteSilica S™.
  • Oil Absorption: High oil absorption (up to 4 times its weight), approximately 3 times more than standard MatteSilica™.
  • Best for: Formulations specifically targeting maximum oil control for very oily skin, where extreme oil absorption is the primary goal.

• MatteSilica 10XL™ (10 Micron, High Oil Absorb) - Product ID: 125344

  • Particle Size: Average 10 microns.
  • Feel: Slippery and dry, similar to standard MatteSilica™.
  • Oil Absorption: High oil absorption (up to 3 times its weight), approximately 3 times more than standard MatteSilica™.
  • Best for: Formulations requiring high oil absorption with a smoother feel compared to the 5XL version, suitable for oily skin.

• MatteSilica 5S™ (5 Micron, Dimethicone Coated) - Product ID: 1110

  • Particle Size: Average 5-7 microns.
  • Feel: Soft and smooth due to Dimethicone coating.
  • Oil Absorption: Standard (1.4-1.5 times its weight), equivalent to MatteSilica 5™.
  • Best for: Formulations where a luxurious, soft, and smooth skin feel is crucial, alongside effective oil absorption.

How to Choose the Right MatteSilica™

• For enhanced smoothness and moderate oil absorption: Choose MatteSilica 3™ (10043), MatteSilica 5™ (518), or MatteSilica 10™ (10044), depending on the desired skin adherence and smoothness. Smaller microns (3) offer better adherence and a moist feel, while larger microns (10) provide a smoother feel with less adherence.
• For maximum oil absorption with a smooth feel: Opt for MatteSilica 5XL™ (679) or MatteSilica 10XL™ (125344). The 5XL offers slightly higher absorption, while the 10XL provides a smoother feel.
• For a soft, luxurious skin feel with effective oil absorption: Select MatteSilica 5S™ (1110), which is coated with Dimethicone for superior softness.

General Usage Guidelines

• Usage: Ideal for any product requiring a slippery feel, oil absorption, and an emollient (Matte Look) skin finish.
• Mixing Method: Typically added in the final mixing step. Blend thoroughly to ensure even dispersion in the formula. All types are heat resistant.
• Rate of Use: 0.1-20%, depending on the desired efficacy and product type.
• Product Characteristics: White, lightweight, small, smooth particles.
• Solubility: Dispersible in any formula. If the formula contains oil, it is recommended to mix MatteSilica™ in the water phase first or add it in the final step once the cream texture is achieved to prevent the powder from absorbing oil within the formula itself.
• Storage: Store at room temperature for a shelf life of at least 2-3 years (check specific product for exact shelf life).
• INCI Name: Silica (for most types), Silica, Dimethicone (for MatteSilica 5S™).