Calcium Carbonate; Magnesium Stearate

Where do we get it and how is it made?

Lush UK purchases this ingredient from Korea. It’s the calcium carbonate, a white powder, that really has an effect on the teeth. It’s treated with magnesium stearate, a sticky substance that improves calcium carbonate’s smoothness and enhances its white colour - a result that would ordinarily be achieved by an ingredient called titanium dioxide. As Lush aims to offer the choice of titanium dioxide-free products in its oral care range, the combination of calcium carbonate and magnesium stearate seems like a very interesting alternative.

What are the benefits?

• Polishes the teeth
• Neutralises plaque acid

Unique stories

The pharmaceutical industry often uses these two ingredients either independently or together. For example, calcium carbonate is sold as a calcium supplement or as an antacid. Magnesium stearate, on the other hand, serves as a lubricant or "flow agent", which improves the consistency and quality of medications.