Ingredient guide ›

Silica

The oil soaker.

What it does

A fine mineral powder (silicon dioxide). It soaks up oil, gives a matte finish and gently polishes teeth in toothpaste.

Good to know

Also used in food (E 551). EU food scientists (EFSA) reviewed it in 2018.

Often found in: Sunscreens, Toothpastes, Deodorants, Lip makeup

Around the world

• United States: No FDA limit. The FDA doesn't approve cosmetic ingredients before sale. Source
• EU and UK: No special limit in the EU or UK. Source
• Canada: Not on Health Canada's Hotlist of restricted ingredients. Source
• Australia: No limit in Australia's Poisons Standard. Source

Sources

• EFSA: Re-evaluation of silicon dioxide (E 551) as a food additive (2018) (Independent)
• CIR: Amended Safety Assessment of Amorphous Silica and Hydrated Silica (2025) (Industry-funded)