Perlite

TYPE OF INGREDIENT​
Mineral
COMMONLY FOUND IN
Skincare products, particularly those focused on absorbing oil and mattifying.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PERLITE?

Perlite is a naturally occurring volcanic mineral known for its exceptional absorbent properties, making it a valuable ingredient in skincare formulations. One of the primary benefits of perlite is its ability to absorb excess oil and sebum from the skin’s surface, helping to mattify the complexion and minimize shine. This makes it particularly useful in skincare products designed for individuals with oily or combination skin, helping to control excess oil production.

Additionally, perlite functions as a gentle exfoliant, helping to slough off dead skin cells and impurities, thereby promoting a smoother and more refined skin texture.

WHAT IS PERLITE?

Perlite is a naturally occurring volcanic glass that forms when obsidian, a type of volcanic rock, comes into contact with water. This interaction causes the obsidian to expand and form lightweight, porous particles with excellent absorbent properties. The resulting perlite particles are then processed and refined for various industrial and commercial applications, including skincare.

IS PERLITE SAFE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES AND TONES?

Perlite is generally considered safe for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. Its lightweight and non-comedogenic nature make it suitable for individuals with oily or combination skin, as well as those prone to congestion and breakouts.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Some people may experience mild irritation or dryness when using products containing perlite, especially if they have very sensitive or reactive skin. Additionally, individuals with known allergies to volcanic minerals or any of the components of perlite should avoid using skincare products containing this ingredient to prevent adverse reactions.

Several studies have suggested links to respiratory diseases if the substance is inhaled in large amounts. This typically only affects workers who are exposed to high concentrations of aerosolized perlite through their occupations, such as mining and operating industrial drills, and is not applicable to the general population.

Sources:

Dracheva EE, Iatsyna IV, Lapina NE, Ianin VA, Antoshina LI, Zhadan IIu, Krasavina EK. Influence of perlite sand on the skin in experiment. Med Tr Prom Ekol. 2012;(3):30-4.

Vijayakumar, G. et al. Adsorption, Kinetic, Equilibrium and Thermodynamic studies on the removal of basic dye Rhodamine-B from aqueous solution by the use of natural adsorbent perlite. J. Mater. Environ. Sci 3.1, 157-170 (2011).

Camacho-Bragado GA, Dixon F, Colonna A. Characterization of the response to moisture of talc and perlite in the environmental scanning electron microscope. Micron. 2011 Apr;42(3):257-62. doi: 10.1016/j.micron.2010.10.006. Epub 2010 Oct 26.

Cassin G, Diridollou S, Flament F, Adam AS, Pierre P, Colomb L, Morancais JL, Qiu H. Concealing a shiny facial skin appearance by an Aerogel-based formula. In vitro and in vivo studies. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2018 Feb;40(1):58-66. doi: 10.1111/ics.12433. Epub 2017 Nov 28.

Aamir Hussain, MD, MAPP

Author

Dr. Aamir Hussain is a dermatologist currently practicing adult and pediatric dermatology in Northern Virginia. He serves on the health policy committee of the American Contact Dermatitis Society and has a clinical interest in patch testing. Dr. Hussain is an internationally-recognized speaker, writer and educator. His writings on health policy, medical education and the connections between healthcare and faith have been featured in prestigious media outlets, including The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Hill, and The Baltimore Sun. He has published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and is the author of several book chapters. He has presented research at major conferences, including the American Academy of Dermatology, World Congress of Dermatology, Society of Pediatric Dermatology, American Contact Dermatitis Society, American Society of Dermatopathology, Society of Investigative Dermatology and the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.