Boron Nitride

Hexagonal boron nitride is a synthesis of borax (a natural mineral) and a nitrogen source at high temperature resulting in a lamellar structure resembling graphite, yet pure boron nitride is pure white. Cosmetic boron nitride exhibits this lamellar form with each layer or cleavage face containing boron and nitrogen. There is no borax / nitrogen bonding between layers and therefore planes slide over one another, creating a soft and lubricating effect. Hexagonal boron nitride has other unique properties that make it desirable to use in cosmetics. It is chemically inert, photo-stable, adherent, and has a refractive index of 1.74 (close to that of the human skin).

We offer a number of different cosmetic boron nitrides in a variety of particle sizes. Generally, the coarser products offer more of a shimmer or "glitter" effect and the finer products are more translucent. Please call us at 1-888-463-9298 or email us for more information.

Cosmetic Mica

CSI offers both a sericite mica with a "matte’ appearance as well as a muscovite mica with a pearlescent appearance. Although not as white in appearance and soft, sericite mica most resembles the mineral talc and is the usual choice as a talc replacement in talc-free formulations. Sericite mica is suggested as a major ingredient in mineral cosmetic formulations including body powders, eye shadows and a variety of makeup applications.

Pearlescent muscovite mica has a similar feel to sericite mica but exhibits a distinctive pearl appearance or sparkle to the naked eye. Although also a possible choice in body powders, it is mainly used as a replacement or in combination with talc in eyeshadows, blushes and liquid foundations.

Surface Treatments 

CSI also offers surface treated powder products as well as custom treatments on your substrate of choice. Currently, a number of talc and mica products are offered with methicone, dimethicone, lauroyl lysine and boron nitride treatments. However, CSI can also duplicate most treated powder products and offer significant cost-savings due to its efficient processing and low overhead.

In addition, CSI can blend mica and talc with boron nitride (BN) to provide a cost effective alternative to pure BN in cosmetic formulations.