What is Kaolin?
Kaolin falls into the mineral category — a mineral-based ingredient. A mild absorbent clay rated 0/5, often used in masks for oily skin.
You may see it on labels as Kaolin, Kaolin Clay, White Clay, so it can hide under more than one name in an ingredient list.
Where Kaolin shows up
As a mineral-based ingredient, Kaolin typically appears in sunscreens, mineral makeup, and masks. Separately from clogging, its irritancy is rated 0/5 — low, so it's unlikely to sting or sensitise on its own.
Is Kaolin bad for acne-prone skin?
That low score makes Kaolin a reasonable choice even for acne-prone skin. As always, individual reactions vary, but it is not a likely cause of clogged pores.