Where is it found? Also known as diatomaceous, it's a component in dynamite, along with nitrogylcerin. It's described as an all-natural product made from tiny fossilised water plants.
What does it look like? It's a naturally occurring, chalk-like sedimentary rock that is easily crumbled into a fine white to off-white powder. The powder has an abrasive feel, similar to pumice powder, and is light, due to its high porosity. The typical chemical composition of diatomaceous earth is 86 per cent silica, 5 per cent sodium, 3 per cent magnesium and 2 per cent iron.
What's it used for? In cosmetics, it's in some natural toothpastes, deodorants, absorbent powders, cuticle creams, and in mild exfoliation products as it is gently abrasive. As the particles are hollow, they are very porous, so it is used in such things as cat litter and water filtration.