Quaternium-18 Bentonite
What Quaternium-18 Bentonite is & what it does
Quaternium-18 Bentonite is a clay mineral, bentonite, that has been modified with a quaternary ammonium compound to make it work in oil-based systems. In sunscreen and skincare formulas it acts mainly as a viscosity controller and suspending agent, helping to thicken oils and keep pigments and other particles evenly dispersed. This makes it useful for stabilizing the texture of emulsions and anhydrous products.
What does Quaternium-18 Bentonite do in skincare?
Quaternium-18 Bentonite is a modified clay used as a viscosity controller and suspending agent. In sunscreen and skincare formulas it helps thicken oils and keeps pigments and particles evenly dispersed. This supports a stable, uniform texture.
Is Quaternium-18 Bentonite natural or synthetic?
Quaternium-18 Bentonite starts from a natural clay mineral, bentonite, that is then modified with a quaternary ammonium compound. This makes it a hybrid ingredient: a naturally sourced clay that has been chemically treated. The modification allows it to work in oil-based systems.
Is Quaternium-18 Bentonite safe?
Quaternium-18 Bentonite is a widely used clay-based thickener and suspending agent in cosmetics. As a large-particle mineral derivative it is generally used at functional levels in finished products. If you have specific concerns, reviewing the ingredient list and consulting a professional is advisable.
Sunscreens with Quaternium-18 Bentonite
We rate 25 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:
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Black Monster Aloe Sun Cream
84/100
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Missha All Around Safe Block Soft Finish Sun Milk Spf50+/Pa+++
81/100
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Xaiel Fine Sun CC SPF 50+ / Pa++++
81/100
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Mary Kay Sheer UV Defense Milk SPF 50+
80/100
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it Cosmetics Anti-Aging Armour
80/100
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Missha All Around Safe Block Waterproof Sun Milk Spf50+/Pa+++
80/100
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aviance UV Expert Gluta Orange Multi Defense & Protection SPF 50+ Pa++++
80/100
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Etude House Face Blur Mattifying SPF 50+ PA++++
79/100
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Hello Glow Niacinamide Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++
79/100
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Tosowoong Soft Touch Sun Cream Spf 32 Pa++
78/100