Supplement analysis backed by scientific evidence · PT

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Limited evidenceJoints & skin

Pearl Powder

Ground pearl, used for centuries in Chinese medicine as a beauty tonic. It is over 90% calcium carbonate with a small protein fraction, and there are no human trials for skin.

Evidence last reviewed: August 2026

What the science says

  • Skin appearance and anti-ageing Limited evidence

    No randomized or controlled human trial of oral or topical pearl powder for skin appearance, pigmentation or ageing is indexed in PubMed. The beauty reputation is entirely traditional.

  • Antioxidant activity in animals Limited evidence

    A 2026 characterisation study gave pearl powder orally to mice for four weeks and reported dose-dependent increases in tissue antioxidant capacity, with no toxicity at up to 500 mg/kg. The work was done in mice by researchers holding a patent on pearl powder antioxidants, and no clinical study has followed.

  • Mineral content Limited evidence

    Physicochemical characterisation confirms pearl powder is predominantly calcium carbonate with trace minerals and conchiolin proteins. As a calcium source it is unremarkable and far more expensive than standard calcium carbonate.

Dosage & safety

Studied doseNo clinical dose exists. Traditional use is 0.3–1 g/day of finely ground powder; product labels commonly suggest 500 mg/day.
SafetyCalcium carbonate is well tolerated but can cause constipation and, in large amounts, interfere with iron and zinc absorption. Pearl and shell products have been reported to carry heavy metal contamination in some markets, so third-party testing matters. Avoid if you have hypercalcaemia or are already taking high-dose calcium.

Scientific references

Where to buy

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