INCI Name
Silica
Botanical Name
None
Silica Microspheres are cosmetic-grade spherical silica particles used to improve texture, oil absorption, and light diffusion in formulations. They provide a soft, silky feel and mattifying effect, enhancing both skincare and makeup products.



Absorbent, texture enhancer, mattifying agent, light diffuser, bulking agent
Product Type(s):
Typical Usage Range:
1–15% in powders; 0.5–5% in emulsions and creams
Provides a soft-focus effect to reduce the appearance of fine lines and pores, improves slip and spreadability in powders and creams, absorbs excess oil for a matte finish; widely used in color cosmetics and skincare for a silky texture
Primary Components:
Amorphous silicon dioxide (SiO₂) microspheres
Generally recognized as safe; avoid inhalation of fine silica dust; non-crystalline cosmetic-grade silica is considered non-toxic
Preferred Extraction Method:
Synthetic amorphous silica (precipitated or fumed) formed via controlled hydrolysis of silicates
Use only cosmetic-grade amorphous silica (not crystalline quartz); microsphere grades provide better texture and light-diffusing properties
Explore additional safety and regulatory data from trusted external sources:
*The ingredient details on this page are intended for general educational use and should not be considered exhaustive. Additional properties, uses, or safety considerations may be available from other sources. Root & Ritual Apothecary is not affiliated with Cosmetics Info, Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR), INCIDecoder, SkinSafe, EWG Skin Deep, or SpecialChem. External links are provided solely for informational purposes; Root & Ritual does not control or guarantee the accuracy, methodology, or conclusions of third-party sources, including consumer rating systems such as EWG.
Silica Microspheres
Some links on this page are affiliate links. This means Root & Ritual may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you—if you choose to make a purchase. We only recommend products we genuinely trust and use, and your support helps us continue sharing trusted botanical resources.