Kaolin Clay
Kaolin clay: an FDA-recognized skin protectant at 4 to 20 percent, the powder warnings (broken skin, breathing it in), and why kaolin and bentonite are different clays.
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Overview and identity
Kaolin is a natural clay mineral. FDA's skin-protectant rule lists kaolin as an over-the-counter active ingredient at 4 to 20 percent. [1] Kaolin is not bentonite; see Bentonite clay.What FDA's rule allows
Products containing kaolin may be labeled for drying the oozing and weeping of poison ivy, oak or sumac. [1] Required warnings for kaolin powder products: do not use on broken skin, and keep away from the face and mouth to avoid breathing it. [1] All skin protectants carry "for external use only" and "stop use and ask a doctor if condition worsens or symptoms last more than 7 days." [1]What this does and does not mean
This is regulatory information about a skin product. It is not evidence from trials, and it does not support swallowing kaolin or using clay masks on serious or infected skin. We found no readable source on swallowing kaolin, so we make no claim that it is safe or useful to ingest.Frequently asked questions
Is kaolin clay safe to eat?
We found no source we could read supporting swallowing kaolin; FDA's rule covers its use on skin. [1]
References
- U.S. Code of Federal Regulations, Title 21, Part 347: Skin protectant drug products for over-the-counter human use, sections 347.10 (active ingredients) and 347.50 (labeling). Retrieved from the electronic CFR 2026-10-22.
Education, not medical advice. This page is for general information. It does not diagnose or treat any condition and is not a substitute for care from a qualified health professional. Natural does not automatically mean safe. Ask a clinician or pharmacist before changing your care, especially if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a health condition.