What Is Novismuth?

Learn about the absorbent and opacifying characteristics of Novismuth and its usage in personal care products.

What Is Novismuth? Brandon Jones / IngredientReviewer

Last Updated: October 2, 2024

Written by Brandon Jones

What Is Novismuth?

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What is the purpose of Novismuth in personal care products? It is used for its absorbent and opacifying characteristics. Novismuth absorbs liquid and reduce cosmetic transparency.

Names and identifiers that we found for this substance include: Novismuth, OrbeSeal, Roter, Vicalin, Vikaline, Bismuth Magistery, Bismuth oxynitrate, Bismuth Subnitrate, Bismuth subnitricum, Bismuth white, Blanc de fard, Cosmetic White, Flake White, Spanish white, Snowcal 5SW, Basic bismuth nitrate, Bismut hydroxid nitrat oxid, Pigment White 17, "Nitrate de bismuth, basique", C.I. Pigment White 17, Bismuth hydroxide nitrate oxide (Bi5O(OH)9(NO3)4), Bismuth(3+) hydroxide nitrate oxide (5/9/4/1), and C.I. 77169.

What Are Absorbent Ingredients?

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Novismuth has absorbent characteristics.

Absorbent ingredients are substances added to products to help them absorb moisture or oil. For example, in a face powder, absorbent ingredients like talc or silica help to absorb excess oil on the skin and give a matte finish. In deodorants, absorbent ingredients like baking soda or cornstarch helps to absorb sweat and moisture.

Besides cosmetic items, absorbent ingredients are found in other products like diapers. Super-absorbent polymers (SAPs) help keep babies dry by quickly absorbing and locking away moisture.

Types of Absorbent Ingredients

Here are some of the most common types of absorbent ingredients in cosmetics:

  • Powders: Cosmetics may contain a variety of powders, such as talc, cornstarch, or silica, which can help to absorb excess oil or moisture from the skin.

  • Clays: Natural clays, such as kaolin or bentonite, are often used in cosmetics as they can absorb excess oil and unwanted substances from the skin.

  • Charcoal: Activated charcoal is sometimes used in cosmetics as it can absorb impurities and toxins from the skin.

  • Gels: Some gels, such as aloe vera gel, can have absorbent properties and may be used in cosmetics to help soothe and moisturize the skin.

  • Polymers: Certain polymers, such as polyacrylates or cross-linked polyethylene, can be used in cosmetics to absorb excess moisture from the skin or to create a smooth, matte finish.

What Are Opacifying Ingredients?

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Novismuth has opacifying characteristics.

Opacifying ingredients are commonly used in cosmetic products to reduce transparency or translucency. These ingredients create a white or opaque appearance in the product, which helps hide imperfections and blemishes on the skin. Some opacifying ingredients also have the added benefit of providing a matte finish, which can be desirable for those with oily or combination skin.

Opacifying ingredients can be found in various cosmetic products, including foundations, powders, and concealers. These ingredients can be synthetic or naturally derived, including titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and kaolin clay.

Safety

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Remember, always read and follow the instructions provided on product labels carefully. If you have any questions or concerns about using a product containing various ingredients, consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before use.