kaolin

noun

ka·​o·​lin ˈkā-ə-lən 

: a fine usually white clay that is used in ceramics and refractories, as a filler or extender, and in medicine especially as an adsorbent in the treatment of diarrhea

Examples of kaolin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The mask is also made with complexion-soothing oatmeal to treat redness and irritation, along with kaolin clay to gently, yet deeply penetrate your pores and exfoliate impurities. —Kyra Surgent, InStyle, 22 Feb. 2026

Skin Pharm Clay Time Polishing Charcoal Mask: An exfoliating mask made with salicylic acid, kaolin clay and charcoal for smoother, clearer skin and a spa-level moment at home. —Avery Newmark, AJC.com, 9 Feb. 2026

Mineral pigments and kaolin clay add believable volume without stiffness, thanks to panthenol that conditions each hair. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 22 Jan. 2026

The star ingredients here are oil-absorbing clays (including kaolin and bentonite) and the brand’s signature grapeseed polyphenols, which provide free radical protection as well as combat sebum oxidation—the reason blackheads appear dark. —Emily Orofino, Vogue, 21 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

French kaolin, from Gaoling hill in China

First Known Use

circa 1741, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

kaolin

noun

ka·​olin

ˈkā-ə-lən

: a fine usually white clay used in making porcelain, in paper, and in medicines that treat diarrhea

Medical Definition

kaolin

noun

ka·​olin ˈkā-ə-lən 

: a fine usually white clay that is used in ceramics and refractories, as a filler or extender, and in medicine especially as an adsorbent in the treatment of diarrhea (as in food poisoning or dysentery)