Corn Starch

What is it?	Corn starch is starch isolated from corn. It’s a common kitchen ingredient, where it is often used for thickening.
INCI	Zea Mays Starch
Appearance	Fine white powder
Usage rate	Up to 100%
Texture	Soft, smooth, silky
Scent	None
Solubility	Insoluble
Why do we use it in formulations?	In anhydrous products it helps reduce the greasy/oily skin feel, and in higher concentrations it can give the entire product a powdery, dry-touch finish and contribute to thickening. In powdered cosmetics it acts as a diluent and improves slip. It can also be used in dusting powders, or even used as-is for a dusting powder.
Do you need it?	No, but there’s a good chance you already have it!
Strengths	Readily available, inexpensive and effective ingredient.
Weaknesses	Unsuitable for anyone with corn allergies.
Alternatives & Substitutions	Other starches, like wheat or arrowroot, and good alternatives to corn starch.
How to Work with It	In anhydrous products, add to the oil phase—I like to let it soak with the liquid/melted oils and then stir everything together. In powdered products, include it in the grinding phase.
Storage & Shelf Life	Stored somewhere cool, dark, and dry,
Tips, Tricks, and Quirks	Some companies sell corn starch in a shaker bottle as a natural baby powder—if you want to try that just put your own (cheaper!) corn starch in a shaker bottle!
Recommended starter amount	100g (3.3oz)
Where to Buy it	Buy it from an online DIY ingredient supplier or Amazon.