One of the benefits of handmade soap is the soap makers ability to chose the ingredients used in each bar. Here at Ordinarily Extra, we strive to use only natural, sustainably-sourced, and eco-friendly materials. When clays don’t offer the shade we want, we turn to mica. But what is mica and is it safe?
You may be surprised to learn that mica is commonly used in cosmetics to add a shimmer effect. It can be found in everything from nail polish to blush, lipstick, and body glitter. Mica is a silicate mineral whose natural color ranges from silver and white to pink and purple tones. But mica comes in many more colors than just the natural varieties. Once the mineral has been mined, it is coated with FD&C (Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act) colorants or pigments to achieve the wide range of available colors.
While most of the micas used at Ordinarily Extra only contain mica and iron oxides, both of which occur naturally, some colors do contain FD&C colorants. The FD&C colors are approved for product we eat, drink, or put on our bodies, but are not considered natural as they are synthetically derived. Any micas with FD&C colorants used are rated for eye application to ensure the safety of the end product.
There have been ethical concerns associated with the use of mica in cosmetic products. These concerns stem unethical manufacturing, either from putting the safety of workers at risk or the use of child labor. These are issues we do our best to be conscious of when choosing which products to use. Our micas are ethically and sustainably sourced and FDA and REACH certified.
Mica opens up a world of vibrant color possibilities. When used responsibly and sourced from reputable suppliers, mica can be safely incorporated into soap.
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