Bismuth reaches its highest price for 17 years. Bismuth prices have reached their highest since 2008 following hikes imposed by the European Union on products from China.
As reported by the French news agency Reuters, bismuth prices have risen to $18 this week, the highest price since 2008, and experts say prices are set to rise further.
The rest of the exports come from Japan, South Korea and Laos. However, experts point out that the availability of this resource is limited compared to China. ‘We have received several enquiries from consumers of this metal from both the European Union and the United States,’ experts say.
What is bismuth used in cosmetics?
Bismuth is present in the list of cosmetic ingredients in the form of bismuth oxychloride (bismuth oxychloride), it is widely used in the cosmetics industry due to its unique properties.
It is present, for example, in colour cosmetics (foundations, powders, blushers, eye shadows...). Bismuth oxychloride is responsible for providing a pearly, shiny and silky finish. It also creates a luminous effect on the skin. In addition, it provides a silky texture and makes the application of the more liquid products more even. It also interferes with durability and helps products adhere better to the skin.
Bismuth is also common in sunscreen, and contributes to the reflectivity of sunlight. Finally, it is used in mineral cosmetics because it provides a natural, light appearance on the skin.