CALCIUM CHLORIDE

CALCIUM CHLORIDE: Strengthen and soothe your skin deeply

CALM | SOOTHE | DE-STRESS

What is calcium chloride ?

Calcium chloride (CaCl₂) is a mineral salt naturally found in the human body, especially in bones and bodily fluids. In cosmetics, it is mainly used for its moisturizing, soothing, and remineralizing properties. It also helps regulate the skin’s ionic balance and supports the skin’s barrier function. Thanks to its ability to attract and retain water, it’s a valuable ingredient in moisturizing treatments, particularly for sensitive or irritated skin.

Used in low concentrations, calcium chloride helps maintain optimal skin hydration and can also soothe skin inflammation. It is well tolerated and used in formulations for the face, scalp, and body.

Where does calcium chloride come from ?

The calcium chloride used in cosmetics is usually pharmaceutical or cosmetic grade, synthesized from calcium carbonate and hydrochloric acid. It can also come from natural mineral deposits. The form used in cosmetics is highly purified and complies with current safety standards. It is not of animal origin and is suitable for vegan formulations.

Properties and active benefits

Calcium chloride offers several skin care benefits:

• Active Hydration: Works as a humectant, drawing moisture into the upper layers of the skin to maintain hydration.

• Soothing Effect: Helps reduce irritation, tightness, and itchiness, especially on reactive skin.

• Remineralization: Calcium is essential for cell regeneration; topical application supports overall skin health.

• Barrier Reinforcement: Strengthens skin cell cohesion and supports the natural protective barrier of the skin.

What are the benefits of calcium chloride ?

• Improves hydration and reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL)

• Soothes redness, irritation, and inflammation

• Supports skin regeneration, especially after external stress (wind, cold, harsh products)

• Helps balance sensitive skin prone to reactions

• Promotes a more even complexion and smoother skin texture

Main benefits at a glance:

✔ Hydrates and strengthens the skin barrier
✔ Soothes discomfort and dryness
✔ Provides calcium to support cellular regeneration

How to use calcium chloride in skincare

Calcium chloride is included in a variety of topical treatments:

• Hydrating milks and lotions: To restore mineral balance and calm the skin

• Soothing serums: Especially for reactive or post-treatment skin

• After-sun care: To reduce redness and support repair

• Hair care products: Sometimes used to soothe the scalp or remineralize chemically-treated hair

• Face masks: To refresh and strengthen the skin

It is rarely used on its own, typically forming part of mineral complexes or advanced moisturizing formulations. It is generally well tolerated by all skin types.

Any side effects ?

Calcium chloride is considered safe and non-irritating in cosmetic use, but a few precautions apply:

• At high concentrations, it may cause tingling or slight irritation

• Contact with eyes or mucous membranes may lead to mild irritation

• Very sensitive skin: While rare, localized reactions can occur, especially if combined with other exfoliating agents

Proper formulation ensures safe concentrations, which is always the case in regulated cosmetics.

Sources:

• National Center for Biotechnology Information – Calcium Chloride Safety

• International Journal of Cosmetic Science – The Role of Minerals in Skin Barrier Function

• European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) – Calcium Chloride Dossier