Kaolin clay is a natural mineral that has been used for centuries for its medicinal and cosmetic benefits. In recent years, it has gained attention for its ability to increase UV protection in natural sunscreens. When combined with zinc oxide, kaolin clay can enhance the SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of mineral-based sunscreens. In this blog post, we will explore how kaolin clay increases the UV protection of natural mineral-based sunscreens and the scientific evidence supporting its use.
What is Kaolin Clay
Kaolin clay is a type of clay that is rich in minerals such as silicon, magnesium, and calcium. It has a high refractive index, which means that it reflects light away from the skin. This property of kaolin clay makes it an excellent ingredient in natural sunscreens, as it can help to prevent UV rays from penetrating the skin. When added to mineral-based sunscreens, kaolin clay can enhance their UV protection by reflecting more UV rays away from the skin.
The Benefits of Combining Kaolin Clay with Zinc Oxide
Zinc oxide is a mineral that is commonly used in natural sunscreens due to its ability to provide broad-spectrum UV protection. When combined with kaolin clay, zinc oxide can increase the SPF of natural sunscreens. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science found that the addition of kaolin clay to a sunscreen formulation containing zinc oxide increased the SPF value by 1.5-2.5 units. This increase in SPF was attributed to the reflective properties of kaolin clay, which helped to enhance the effectiveness of zinc oxide in blocking UV rays.
More Researching Pointing to Kaolin Clay
Another study published in the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology found that the addition of kaolin clay to a sunscreen formulation containing titanium dioxide (another mineral used for UV protection) increased the protection against UVA radiation. The researchers concluded that the combination of kaolin clay and titanium dioxide provided superior UVA protection compared to titanium dioxide alone.
In addition to its UV-protective properties, kaolin clay has other benefits for the skin. It is a gentle ingredient that can help to soothe and calm the skin, making it a great choice for people with sensitive skin. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce redness and inflammation caused by sun exposure.
Overall, kaolin clay is an excellent ingredient for natural mineral-based sunscreens. It can increase the UV protection by reflecting UV rays away from the skin, and it can enhance the effectiveness of other UV-blocking minerals such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. When shopping for natural sunscreens, look for products that contain kaolin clay as an ingredient for optimal UV protection.
Sources:
Physicochemical characterization and In vitro evaluation of the sun protection factor of cosmetic products made from natural clay material https://www.scielo.org.za/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0379-43502017000100016
Physicochemical Characterization and In Vitro Evaluation of the Sun Protection Factor of Cosmetic Products Made from Natural Clay Material https://www.researchgate.net/publication/319750993_Physicochemical_Characterization_and_In_Vitro_Evaluation_of_the_Sun_Protection_Factor_of_Cosmetic_Products_Made_from_Natural_Clay_Material