Kaolin
Kaolin is a cosmetic colorant and absorbent ingredient. It’s in 277 products on Poliage, most often mascara, lip and foundation. Avoid lists on Poliage that include it: none.
Updated October 21, 2026
In plain English
White clay. Absorbs oil, adds a matte look and is an abrasive.
What it does
Contains Kaolin: abrasive
Function listed in CosIng
Contains Kaolin: absorbent
Function listed in CosIng
Contains Kaolin: anticaking
Function listed in CosIng
Contains Kaolin: bulking
Function listed in CosIng
Contains Kaolin: cosmetic-colorant
Function listed in CosIng
Contains Kaolin: opacifying
Function listed in CosIng
Source: CosIng, the European Commission cosmetic ingredient database, ref 34795, accessed October 22, 2026. Also listed as kaolinum, kaolin clay, kaolin clay powder and white clay.
Products that contain Kaolin
Tatcha
The Rice Polish: Gentle
Exfoliant · Lists coconut derivatives
The seaweed
Lists coconut derivatives
COVERGIRL
TruBlend Skin Enhancer Balms
Blush · None of Poliage’s flag groups listed
True Botanicals balm
Lists essential oils
Cinema Secrets
Ultimate Corrector Singles
Concealer · Lists fragrance, fragrance allergens, silicones
Cinema Secrets
Ultimate Foundation Singles
Foundation · Lists fragrance, fragrance allergens, silicones
Kiehl’s Since 1851
Ultra Facial Oil-Free Cleanser
None of Poliage’s flag groups listed
Tatcha
Violet-C Radiance Mask
Mask · Lists fragrance, fragrance allergens, silicones, carmine (from insects)
Neutrogena
Visibly clear
Lists fragrance, exfoliating acid, salicylic acid, coconut derivatives
Missha
Vita C Plus Clear Complexion Foaming Cleanser
Cleanser · Lists essential oils, coconut derivatives
e.l.f.
Volumizing Mascara
Mascara · Lists silicones
Essence
What The Length! Extreme Lengthening Mascara Waterproof
Mascara · Lists silicones
Medicube
Zero Pore Blackhead Mud Mask
Mask · Lists fragrance allergens, exfoliating acid, essential oils, salicylic acid
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