2024-01-30
Mica bentonite kaolin-The Problem with Mica
Mica is an ingredient used widely in the cosmetics industry. We look at which companies are using illegally sourced mica in their makeup, and the links with child labour in many mica mines. Mica is the name of a naturally occurring group of silicate minerals. It is derived from the Latin word micare which means to shine, to flash or to glitter. Mica is used throughout the cosmetics and personal care industry, and is common in makeup like eye shadow and lipstick and other products that glow or shine.It can be listed as ‘mica,’ ‘potassium aluminium silicate,’ or ‘CI 77019,’ on ingredient lists.Mica is also mined for industries including pharmaceuticals, electronics, construction, and is used in things like car paint.However, there are several problems with mica, including the health impact on workers mining it, and child labour.