calcium
Calcium is a mineral of mineral origin used in cosmetics. It fulfills several roles: thickening agent to increase the viscosity of formulations, abrasive for exfoliating products, and antioxidant to limit the oxidation of formulas.
Roles & functions
Skin conditioning — Keeps the skin in good condition and protects it; improves its comfort.
Antioxidant — Limits oxidation and helps preserve the formula over time.
Viscosity controlling — Increases viscosity and gives the product its texture.
Abrasive — Helps remove particles through friction (polishing, scrubbing).
Safety limit not to exceed
| Population | Limit / day | Type of reference | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult · general population | 2500 mg | Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) | EFSA NDA 2012 (EFSA J 10(7):2814) |
| Pregnancy | 2500 mg | Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) | EFSA NDA 2012 (EFSA J 10(7):2814) |
| Breastfeeding | 2500 mg | Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) | EFSA NDA 2012 (EFSA J 10(7):2814) |
Official reference limit, for information only, this is not personalised advice. Ask a pharmacist about your situation.
Last verified :
What the authorities say
| Authority | Status |
|---|---|
| Commission européenne (CosIng, Règl. 1223/2009) | Autorisé |
| CLP classification (Reg. 1272/2008) | No CMR classification |
| ECHA — endocrine disruptor (human health) | Not identified as an endocrine disruptor |
| ECHA — Candidate List (SVHC, REACH Art. 59) | Not on the Candidate List (SVHC) |
| European Commission (Reg. 1223/2009, Annex III) | No cosmetic allergen subject to mandatory labelling |
| European Commission (EU catalogue of nanomaterials, Reg. 1223/2009) | No referenced nanoform |
What the EFSA says
Yes. Le calcium est nécessaire à une croissance et à un développement osseux normaux des enfants
Yes. Calcium contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism
Yes. Calcium contributes to normal muscle function
Yes. Calcium contributes to normal neurotransmission
Yes. Calcium contributes to the normal function of digestive enzymes
Yes. Calcium has a role in the process of cell division and specialisation
Yes. Calcium contributes to normal blood clotting
Yes. Calcium is needed for the maintenance of normal bones
Yes. Calcium is needed for the maintenance of normal teeth
Yes. Calcium helps to reduce the loss of bone mineral in post-menopausal women. Low bone mineral density is a risk factor for osteoporotic bone fractures The claim may be used only for food which provides at least 400 mg of calcium per quantified portion. Information shall be given to the consumer that the claim is specifically intended for women 50 years and older and the beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of at least 1200 mg of calcium from all sources. For foods with added calcium the claim may be used only for those targeting women 50 years and older
To date, the EFSA has not validated this link: no health claim may be legally made. This does not prove that it is ineffective.
To date, the EFSA has not validated this link: no health claim may be legally made. This does not prove that it is ineffective.
Source: EFSA / Reg. (EU) 432/2012
No contraindication is specified to date for this ingredient.
Products containing it
In Lou’s database
| Most frequent categories | Joints · Digestive comfort · Nose & sinuses |
| Most frequent brands | Granions · Sterimar · Super Diet |
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