Regulatory Status
For full compliance data across 55 jurisdictions, use the Substance Compliance tool.
Safety Data
Calculate MoS for your specific formulation with the MoS Calculator.
Toxicological Studies
6 study endpoints found for Clay. NOAEL (No Observed Adverse Effect Level) values are used to calculate the Margin of Safety per SCCS methodology.
| Endpoint | Value | Route | Species | Study Type | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NOAEL | ca.2500 mg/kg bw/day | oral | code:3544 | oral | REACH |
| NOAEL | >5000 mg/kg bw/day | oral | rat | oral | REACH |
| NOAEL | 10000 mg/kg bw/day | oral | code:3544 | oral | REACH |
| NOAEL | 1760 other | oral | rat | oral | REACH |
| NOAEL | 5270 other | oral | mouse | oral | REACH |
| NOAEL | 8980 mg/kg bw/day | oral | rat | oral | REACH |
GHS Hazard Classification
Globally Harmonized System classification per ECHA C&L inventory and ILO/WHO International Chemical Safety Cards.
Expert Verdict
Inhalation of fine clay particles (powder products); potential asbestos contamination in talc-type clays; over-drying of skin with prolonged use; heavy metal trace contaminants depending on source geology. Encompasses multiple mineralogical types (kaolin, bentonite, montmorillonite, illite, fuller's earth); highly effective at adsorbing sebum, toxins, and impurities; mineral-rich composition provides trace elements; acts as natural thickener and texture modifier
Regulatory Flags
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Clay safe in cosmetics?
Inhalation of fine clay particles (powder products); potential asbestos contamination in talc-type clays; over-drying of skin with prolonged use; heavy metal trace contaminants depending on source geology. Encompasses multiple mineralogical types (kaolin, bentonite, montmorillonite, illite, fuller's earth); highly effective at adsorbing sebum, toxins, and impurities; mineral-rich composition provides trace elements; acts as natural thickener and texture modifier The EU classifies Clay as "permitted". Safety rating: MODERATE. 6 toxicological study endpoint(s) are available in our database.
Is Clay allowed in the EU?
Clay EU regulatory status: permitted. This is based on EU Regulation 1223/2009 and its amendments.
What does Clay do in cosmetics?
Clay functions as: Absorbent, bulking agent, opacifying agent. It is classified as a cosmetic ingredient in our database. CAS number: 1332-58-7.
What is the Margin of Safety for Clay?
not established The Margin of Safety (MoS) is calculated using SCCS methodology. A MoS above 100 is generally considered safe. Use the MoS Calculator tool to calculate MoS for your specific formulation and product category.
What is the NOAEL for Clay?
The NOAEL (No Observed Adverse Effect Level) for Clay is ca.2500 mg/kg bw/day based on a oral study via oral route in code:3544. A total of 6 study endpoints are available. Source: REACH.
Compliance Tools
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