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Ingredient dictionary

Magnesium Carbonate Hydroxide

Also listed as: Basic Magnesium Carbonate

A fine, white, magnesium-based mineral powder. Its main job is to absorb oil and give formulas a soft, dry-feeling texture. It is on the label of 1 product in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

What Magnesium Carbonate Hydroxide does

  • Absorbs excess oil from the surface
  • Helps keep powdery ingredients free-flowing
  • Adds a mild, gentle texture

Magnesium carbonate hydroxide is made by treating magnesium-containing salts or minerals in water, then drying the result into a fine, white powder. Because it is a mineral, it does not dissolve well in water. It stays as tiny particles that you can feel as a soft, dry finish.

Formulators like it because it soaks up oil and moisture from the surface of the skin or scalp and helps keep powdery ingredients free-flowing. In shampoos and scalp treatments, it is often used to help the formula feel fresh and less greasy between washes.

Good for

Suits people with oily scalps or hair, and formulas meant to feel light, dry and clean.

Frequently asked questions

Is magnesium carbonate hydroxide safe to use?

It is generally well tolerated in cosmetic products. If your skin or scalp is sensitive, try a patch test first, as you would with any new product.

Does magnesium carbonate hydroxide help with oily hair?

It can help. Its absorbent nature lets it take up excess oil from the scalp and hair surface, which can leave hair feeling fresher between washes. It works best as one part of a routine, not as a replacement for regular washing.

Products with Magnesium Carbonate Hydroxide

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