LAPONITE-XL 21 XR is a synthetic layered silicate and has been specially developed to give improved performance in personal care products formulated at pH 5.5 and lower. It is insoluble in water but hydrates and swells to give clear and colorless colloidal dispersions in water or aqueous solutions of alcohols. At concentrations of 2 % or greater in water, highly thixotropic gels are obtained. The unique shear thinning and thixotropic rheology of LAPONITE-XL 21 XR improves the skin feel of personal care products. Formulations will have a light, non-sticky texture. LAPONITE-XL 21 XR enhances stability of emulsions and keeps particles, pigments or solid actives suspended. LAPONITE-XL 21 XR has been sterilized by gamma irradiation.