Sand
What Sand is & what it does
Sand is finely milled silica-based mineral material used in cosmetics mainly as an abrasive and bulking agent. In scrubs and cleansers it provides mechanical exfoliation, while in some formulas it adds texture or absorbs oil. It is an inert, naturally sourced mineral with no active skincare function of its own.
What does sand do in skincare?
Sand works mainly as a physical exfoliant and bulking agent in skincare. Its fine mineral particles provide mechanical scrubbing in cleansers and body products, helping to slough off surface debris. In some formulas it also adds texture or helps absorb excess oil.
Is sand natural or synthetic?
Sand is a naturally occurring mineral material, composed largely of silica. The cosmetic-grade version is typically purified and finely milled to a controlled particle size. It is not chemically synthesized.
Is sand safe in cosmetics?
Sand is an inert mineral and is generally regarded as safe for use in cosmetics at typical levels. As a physical exfoliant, coarse particles can be abrasive, so it is best suited to body or rinse-off products rather than delicate facial skin. If you have very sensitive skin, patch testing is sensible.
Sunscreens with Sand
We rate 3 sunscreens that contain it:
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DERMAFIQUE Soleil Defence All Matte
74/100
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Pond's Sun Protect Non Oily Sunscreen Cream Spf 50
58/100
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Aveil SPF 50 Gel Heat Shield Sunscreen
57/100