Benzalkonium Montmorillonite
AKA “Benzalkonium-modified bentonite clay
Surfactant
Ingredient Facts
Benzalkonium montmorillonite
AKA: Benzalkonium-modified bentonite clay
Surfactant · Emulsifying · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Clay
Not Clean
Benzalkonium Montmorillonite is the reaction product of Benzalkonium Chloride and Montmorillonite.
Form
Powder
See origin →
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Viscosity Controlling
Surfactant Emulsifying
Anti-Inflammatory
Strengthens Barrier
Wound Healing
Mixes oil and water
Controls product thickness
Traditional Use
A modern composite of the synthetic preservative benzalkonium chloride with montmorillonite clay, which has been used for centuries in traditional skincare for absorption and purification. This combination was developed to enhance preservative efficacy in cosmetics.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Caution
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Caution
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR