Zea Mays (corn) Starch
Part of our Ingredient Glossary — educational information about raw materials we may use in our products. We don't sell raw ingredients.
When the beauty industry needed a safe alternative to talc, corn starch stepped up to prove that sometimes the simple solutions work best. This ultra-fine powder, milled from non-GMO corn kernels, delivers everything you want from a cosmetic powder without any of the controversy.
Corn starch has been used in skincare for generations, but modern processing techniques create an incredibly refined powder that performs beautifully in cosmetic formulations. The starch is extracted from corn kernels, then processed and milled to achieve the perfect particle size for skincare use. This isn't the same corn starch from your kitchen pantry - cosmetic grade corn starch undergoes additional purification and sizing.
What makes corn starch exceptional is its ability to absorb moisture and oils while maintaining a silky, non-gritty texture on skin. It creates that coveted smooth finish in powder products and helps prevent the caking and clumping that can happen with other absorbent ingredients. Unlike some mineral powders that can feel chalky or drying, corn starch maintains a soft, natural feel.
We use corn starch in formulations where we want oil absorption without heaviness. It's particularly valuable in products for oily skin, where it helps control shine while allowing skin to breathe. For those avoiding talc-based products, corn starch offers comparable performance with a cleaner safety profile and better skin compatibility.
