Magnesium Aluminum Silicate

mag-NEE-zee-um ah-LOO-min-um SIL-ih-kate

Emulsifier, Thickener 8/10 Safety CG ApprovedClean Natural Vegan

What Is Magnesium Aluminum Silicate?

A naturally occurring mineral clay used as a thickener, stabilizer, and binder in hair products. It creates smooth, stable formulations with a luxurious feel.

Source: Natural mineral clay deposits

Origin: Natural

Also known as: MAS, Veegum

What Does Magnesium Aluminum Silicate Do to Your Hair?

Thickens and stabilizes hair product formulations by forming a gel-like matrix when dispersed in water. Helps suspend particles and prevents settling in products. Provides a smooth, elegant texture to creams and lotions.

Best For

All hair types (functional ingredient)

Not Recommended For

None known

Concentration Matters

0.5-5% in products

Hair Type Compatibility

1A Straight Fine
1B Straight Medium
1C Straight Coarse
2A Wavy Fine
2B Wavy Medium
2C Wavy Coarse
3A Curly Loose
3B Curly Tight
3C Curly Corkscrew
4A Coily S-Shaped
4B Coily Z-Shaped
4C Coily Tight

Method Compatibility

Curly Girl (CG) Method: Approved
CG Approved

Safety & Regulation

8/10
AvoidCautionSafe

Very safe for cosmetic use. Natural mineral with a long safety track record. Non-toxic, non-irritating. The CIR expert panel considers it safe for cosmetic use. Does not penetrate skin or hair.

FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe

FDA permits use in cosmetics and as food additive.

EWG Score: 1/10

HairAide Verdict

A natural mineral thickener that gives products their smooth, luxurious texture. Completely safe and functional. Nothing to worry about here.

Products That Contain Magnesium Aluminum Silicate

Hair creams, styling products, masks, conditioners

Alternatives to Magnesium Aluminum Silicate

If you want to avoid Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, look for products with these ingredients instead:

Xanthan Gum, Carbomer, Bentonite Clay

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Magnesium Aluminum Silicate safe for hair?

Yes, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate has a safety rating of 8/10 and is generally considered safe for use in hair products. Very safe for cosmetic use. Natural mineral with a long safety track record. Non-toxic, non-irritating. The CIR expert panel considers it safe for cosmetic use. Does not penetrate skin or hair.

Is Magnesium Aluminum Silicate bad for curly hair?

Magnesium Aluminum Silicate is CG-method approved and is generally considered safe for curly hair.

Is Magnesium Aluminum Silicate CG-method approved?

Yes, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate is approved for the Curly Girl method.

What can I use instead of Magnesium Aluminum Silicate?

Some alternatives to Magnesium Aluminum Silicate include: Xanthan Gum, Carbomer, Bentonite Clay

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