Micas are derived from the mineral Muscovite Mica which is purified and ground into a fine, pearly translucent powder. It is then coated with dyes or pigments, or a combination of both.

The most stunning results are produced in clear products, such as clear melt and pour soap base, as to get the shimmery effect they need to reflect light. Unlike pigments, micas do not tend to clump so they are easier to work with. The disadvantage of using micas in soap making is that they have a higher usage rate than both pigments and dyes. The shimmery effects are also lost in CP soap and melt and pour base. As micas can be coated in dyes, some of them are not stable in CP soap and will require testing.