What Exactly Is Mica, And What Are The Benefits Of Mica For Your Skin?

You know the saying, “All that glitters isn’t gold?” The mineral mica might be the inspiration behind it.

Despite its golden hues, mica isn’t derived from the precious metal. Its origin? Silicates, naturally-occurring substances known for their versatility. Because of that, mica powder is a staple in the cosmetic and art worlds for its beautiful shimmer.

If you want to dial up the shimmer in your skincare and makeup rituals, here’s a few of our fave offerings featuring mica.

SO, WHAT EXACTLY IS MICA?

Mica comes from a rock-forming mineral called muscovite. Mainly sourced in the U.S.and India, it’s in the same family as quartz and is mined out in large chunks with cleaves of transparent sheets. When mined, muscovite transparent sheets have a distinctive pearlescent luster.

Mica can be ground into flakes or powders, where its iridescent property will create a shimmery effect in pigments like paint and makeup. These reflective qualities make mica “nature’s glitter,” giving product offerings and mica in makeup a touch of sparkling glow.

THE ORIGINS OF MICA

Mica has been mined for thousands of years across the globe, and has served varying purposes in different civilizations like the Atzecs, Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, and Ancient India.

For example, this shimmering mineral grabbed the attention of indigenous Americans thousands of years ago. Native Americans of the Blue Ridge Mountains used mica to decorate their clothing and create effigies significant to their culture — among other uses.

WHY WE LOVE MICA

Crystals and stones are a major source of inspiration for Keys Soulcare.

“A lot of the foundation of Keys Soulcare is based on my love for stones and crystals. I love the way they make me feel. Oftentimes I’ll have one in my pocket just because I need a certain energy,” says Keys Soulcare Goddess-in-Chief Alicia Keys.

In different spiritual communities, mica is thought of as a healing crystal, one that promotes grounding, harmony, and balance. When mica is paired with amethyst, it is said to create a protective shield of positive energy around you.

Curious about the healing benefits of other stones and crystals? Explore our guides:

• Malachite Stone

• 8 Crystals to Transform Your Energy

WHERE YOU CAN FIND MICA IN KEYS SOULCARE

Mica literally and metaphorically shines on skin, creating a beautiful iridescent effect and pearlescent luster. Here’s how we use mica powder as an ingredient in our glowiest offerings at Keys Soulcare.

IN LET ME GLOW ILLUMINATING PRIMING SERUM

Inspired by the energies of stones and crystals, this illuminating serum comes in three universally-flattering shades, designed for different effects and distinct auras. There’s the classic, OG shade Golden Aura, the warm Bronze Aura, and the icy cool Moonstone Aura.

While mica is the secret to the shimmer in Let Me Glow’s illuminating formula, you can also thank hydrating rose water and balancing niacinamide for the serum’s extra boost in radiance. You can wear Let Me Glow alone, or as a priming base under makeup. 

Take your lit-from-within glow to another level with two of our pairings: Let Me Glow and Golden Face Cleanser. The formula has glycerin, plus turmeric, manuka honey, and chamomile, which gently washes away makeup and impurities.

Close out your ritual with the nourishing Skin Transformation Cream with bakuchiol and ceramides that help plump the look of skin.

What do you think about mica? Crystals and stones — including mica — are sources of inspiration for Keys Soulcare. Get to know why we use ancient ingredients in our offerings.