Zea Mays (Corn) Starch is a natural polysaccharide powder derived from corn kernels, used in cosmetics to absorb moisture and oil, impart a soft matte feel, and act as a bulking or anti-caking agent. It is a formulation/base ingredient rather than a therapeutic active.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Skin irritation or contact dermatitis | Rare | Generally well tolerated; occasional mild irritation reported in sensitive individuals. |
Allergic contact sensitization | Very rare | Isolated case reports, sometimes linked to corn allergy or residual proteins. |
Folliculitis or worsening of fungal/yeast conditions | Uncommon | As a starch, it can serve as a substrate for microbial growth in moist or occluded areas. |
Respiratory irritation from inhalation of loose powder | Rare | Relevant mainly to powdered products applied near the face. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.