Bamboo Silica

Bamboo Silica at a glance

Bamboo Silica is a natural silica powder from Germany. Its INCI is Bambusa Arundinacea Stem Extract. It is a fine, white powder that mixes with oils, water, any emulsion, glycerin and propylene glycol. It is used at 0.5 to 5% of the finished product. The supplier describes four benefits: it absorbs sebum, supports the look of firmer skin, helps pores look smaller and improves the look of the complexion.

Silica from bamboo

Bamboo is one of the fastest growing plants in the world, and its stems are unusually rich in silica, the natural mineral form of silicon dioxide. In some bamboo species, a white, silica rich substance collects inside the stem joints. This natural silica is collected, purified and milled into a fine powder. For brands, bamboo silica gives a plant based alternative to synthetic silica with a strong natural story.

What silica does in a formula

Oil absorption

Silica particles are porous and absorb oil and sebum. On the skin this means less shine and a matte finish that lasts longer.

Oleogels

Because silica can take up a large amount of oil, it can turn liquid oils into soft gels. These oleogels give oil based products a richer, cushioned texture without waxes.

Slip and spreading

Fine silica makes creams and powders glide smoothly and spread evenly. Products feel silky and less greasy.

Soft focus

The particles scatter light, which helps pores and fine lines look less visible and gives the skin a smoother, more even look.

How to formulate

Bamboo Silica can be added at almost any stage. In emulsions, add it after emulsification and mix well, or disperse it in the oil phase. In powders, blend it with the other dry ingredients. In gels, disperse it in glycerin first. Mix well to avoid lumps. A mattifying cream can combine it with niacinamide, and a mineral powder can add zinc oxide for coverage. More functional ingredients are listed in the cosmetic actives section.

Dosing

Light lotions and serums use 0.5 to 1%. Mattifying creams, primers and fluids use 1 to 3%. Mineral powders and oleogels use up to 5%.

Product ideas

Mineral makeup and loose powders, mattifying primers, oil control day creams, pore refining fluids, silky serums, oil gels for dry skin and lightweight body lotions with a dry touch are the main uses.

Sample recipe: mattifying primer, 100 g

Distilled water 74.50 g, glycerin 3.00 g, glyceryl stearate citrate 3.00 g, cetearyl alcohol 1.50 g, caprylic/capric triglyceride 6.00 g, dimethicone 4.00 g, Bamboo Silica 3.00 g, niacinamide 2.00 g, xanthan gum 0.30 g, preservative 1.00 g, panthenol 1.00 g, citric acid solution 0.70 g. Heat water and oil phases to 75 °C, emulsify and cool, disperse bamboo silica into the emulsion with stirring, add niacinamide dissolved in a little water, panthenol and the preservative below 40 °C, and adjust to about pH 5.5.

Oleogel concept

An oleogel is a simple and modern format. Stir 5% bamboo silica into a blend of light plant oils until the mix thickens into a soft gel. It gives a face or body oil with a cushioned feel that does not run off the skin.

Handling

Fine powders can dust. Weigh them carefully, add them slowly with good mixing and keep the pack closed to prevent moisture uptake.

Mineral makeup

Mineral makeup is one of the main uses the supplier lists. In loose powders and pressed foundations, bamboo silica improves the feel, absorbs shine through the day and helps the powder spread evenly without looking cakey. Use 3 to 5% together with mica, zinc oxide and iron oxides, and blend all powders well before pressing.

Storage

Store in a dry, cool place in a closed container. A certificate of analysis comes with every lot.