★What is Pearl Powder?
Pearl Powder is a natural cosmetic raw material made from finely milled freshwater/saltwater pearls. It is rich in calcium carbonate, amino acids, trace elements and pearl polypeptides, widely used for brightening, soothing and anti-aging.
★What particle sizes of Pearl Powder do you offer?
We provide multiple grades:
Micron grade: 800–2000 mesh (for creams, lotions)
Nano grade: 8000–10000 mesh (for serums, sensitive formulas)
All are smooth, non-gritty and easy to formulate.
★What is the difference between freshwater and seawater pearl powder?
Freshwater pearl powder: More cost-effective, typically contains higher levels of amino acids, slightly softer texture. Slightly lower calcium content.
Seawater pearl powder (e.g., Akoya): Higher calcium carbonate content, more trace elements (selenium, strontium), often considered “premium.” More expensive.
Both offer similar cosmetic benefits. We supply both types and can provide analysis certificates to verify origin.
★What is the typical particle size of cosmetic-grade pearl powder? Why does it matter?
Cosmetic-grade pearl powder is typically micronized to sizes between 1-10 microns (µm). The smaller the particle size:
Smoother skin feel (no grittiness)
Better skin adhesion and coverage
Faster dissolution of bioactive components
Higher bioavailability
Our standard grade is D90 < 10µm (90% of particles below 10 microns). We also offer ultrafine grade (D90 < 3µm) for premium serums and suspensions.
★Is pearl powder water-soluble? How to incorporate it into cosmetic formulations?
No, pearl powder is insoluble in water, oil, and most solvents. It remains as fine particles suspended in the formula. To incorporate:
For creams & lotions: Add to the water phase after swelling thickeners, then homogenize to ensure even dispersion.
For powders & masks: Dry blend with other powder ingredients.
For serums: Pre-disperse in a small amount of glycerin or glycol, then add to the formula with constant stirring.
Use a high-shear mixer or ultrasonicator for best dispersion. We provide dispersing aids upon request.
★Is pearl powder approved for cosmetic use in the EU, USA, and China?
EU: Pearl powder is not listed in CosIng as a standard ingredient, but it can be used as a “natural ingredient” under the General Product Safety Directive. Some EU brands use it. We recommend checking with your EU responsible person.
USA: Allowed as a cosmetic ingredient. FDA has no specific ban.
China (NMPA): Listed in IECIC 2021 (INCI: PEARL POWDER) with no concentration restriction. It is widely used in Chinese skin care.
We provide all required documentation for global registration, including COA, MSDS, TDS, and a non-animal testing statement for China.
★What is the recommended dosage of pearl powder in cosmetic formulations?
Face masks (wash-off): 5-15% (can be high due to short contact)
Creams & lotions (leave-on): 1-5%
Serums & essences: 1-3% (requires good dispersion)
Powder foundations / loose powders: 10-30%
Toothpaste / oral care: 5-10% (for mild abrasion)
For first trials, start at 2% and assess stability (sedimentation) and skin feel.
★Can pearl powder be combined with other active ingredients (vitamin C, niacinamide, retinol)?
Yes, pearl powder is generally compatible with most cosmetic ingredients. However:
With vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid): Avoid very low pH (<3.5) as it may react with calcium carbonate (effervescence). Use vitamin C derivatives instead.
With niacinamide: Fully compatible.
With retinol: Compatible, but ensure the formula is not too thick to avoid uneven distribution.
With AHAs/BHAs: Can be used, but again watch for pH and potential reaction with calcium.
We recommend pre-dispersion and stability testing.
★What pH range is suitable? Will it affect formula stability?
Stable at pH 6.0–8.0 (weakly alkaline).
Avoid strong acidic systems (pH<4.5) to prevent agglomeration.
