Diatomaceous earth, the virtues of this natural ingredient on the skin.

Diatomaceous earth presents itself as a white powder. This active ingredient of 100% natural origin comes from fossilised residues of diatoms that have disintegrated. Diatoms are unicellular algae covered with a mineral skeleton made up of two intertwined layers of silica. After the death of the algae, a mud/clay mixture forms which fossilises and subsequently produces diatomaceous earth powder.

Diatoms are found in both fresh, salt, and brackish waters; today, we have identified approximately 10,000 varieties.

In various facial and full-body skincare treatments, diatomaceous earth is valued for its cleansing and exfoliating properties. In food, it is highly regarded due to the essential trace elements it contains, such as magnesium, copper, calcium, zinc, phosphorus, and selenium.

After purification, calcination and grinding, diatomaceous earth offers multiple benefits to the skin. Here are a few examples:

• Cleansing: It rids the skin of toxins, dust and other impurities that have settled on the surface.

• Exfoliant: Thanks to its minute angular particles, it eliminates corneocytes, dead cells accumulated on the skin's surface that can dull it and/or clog the pores, leading to the formation of blackheads;

• Absorbent : Due to its microporous structure, diatomaceous earth powder is a drying agent that can absorb up to its own weight in moisture. Because of this property, it is frequently used in natural deodorants and also purifying face masks. It helps to absorb excess sebum and cleanse the skin.

Furthermore, this powder is chemically inert. It does not react with other compounds present in cosmetic formulas, making its incorporation into numerous galenic forms easier. It can also be added to both acidic and basic formulas, as it is not sensitive to pH.