Diatomaceous earth is a silica-rich powder made from microscopic fossilized water plants called diatoms.
On Earth, silicon dioxide (SiO₂) is the second most abundant element—and in the human body, it’s the third. Because our bodies naturally hold so much silicon, it plays an essential role in skin health, strength, and elasticity.
Diatomaceous earth (DE) is about 80% silica. On the skin, this mineral may support collagen synthesis and help activate hydroxylating enzymes—important for maintaining firmness and a youthful texture. One way your skin can absorb these plant-based minerals is through skincare products like masks and scrubs.
1. A Natural Skin Detoxifier
Diatomaceous earth helps draw out microscopic impurities, oil buildup, and environmental residue. It works as a gentle skin detoxifier, helping your complexion feel clean without stripping essential moisture.
2. Supports Collagen Synthesis
Silica plays a role in collagen formation. Regular use of DE-based products may help support smoother, more resilient skin over time.
3. Gentle, Effective Skin Exfoliation
Unlike harsh chemical exfoliants, diatomaceous earth for skin care offers natural, micro-fine exfoliation—removing dead skin cells, unclogging pores, and promoting a radiant glow.
4. Helps Detoxify Skin from Environmental Stress
When used in a scrub or mask, DE may assist your skin’s natural renewal process, supporting recovery from pollutants and oxidative stress.
5. Promotes Smooth Texture
Its fine powder texture refines pores and softens rough areas for a more even surface.
6. Works Synergistically with Antioxidants
In combination with ingredients like raw honey or botanical oils, DE can enhance antioxidant activity—helping to soothe and protect the skin barrier.
7. Helps Calm Blemish-Prone Skin
Because it helps remove excess oil and buildup, DE may help prevent breakouts and minimize the appearance of old acne marks.
8. Encourages Healthy Cell Renewal
By promoting gentle exfoliation, DE helps your skin naturally shed dull cells and reveal new, healthy layers underneath.
9. Strengthens Skin Elasticity
Silica helps improve the skin’s structure—supporting firmness and elasticity that may diminish with age.
10. Naturally Sourced & Sustainable
Made from ancient freshwater diatoms, DE is renewable, biodegradable, and aligned with a clean-beauty ethos, making it a mindful choice for both your skin and the planet.
Where to Find It
At Mamas Medicinals, we use food-grade diatomaceous earth in our CBD Honey Face Scrub, a wild-harvested, slow-infused blend designed for gentle exfoliation and radiant skin renewal → Explore the CBD Honey Face Scrub
Curious about using CBD skincare while pregnant or nursing? Read My Journey with CBD During Pregnancy and Nursing for a personal, thoughtful perspective.
Quick Tip
Tip: Apply a small amount of scrub to damp skin, gently massage in circular motions, and rinse with warm water. Use 1–2x weekly for best results.
Summary
Diatomaceous earth is more than just a natural exfoliant—it’s a silica-rich mineral that supports smoother, stronger, detoxified skin. Whether used in a face mask or scrub, this age-old ingredient helps your skin look and feel refreshed, naturally.
Discover our slow-infused skincare collection →
For more on skin detox and exfoliation, explore our post on How to Detoxify Skin Naturally
Micro-disclaimer: Patch test first. Topicals do not enter the bloodstream in typical use; consult your provider if pregnant or nursing. You can learn more about this topic in our post: Can I Use CBD While Pregnant or Breastfeeding?
1 comment
Thanks for writing about this. I have been looking into the skin benefits of diatomaceous earth and have found lees than I was originally hoping for. However silicon dioxide is not an element and should not be referred to as such. It is indeed a mineral and naturally occurring and made up of only two elements.