Disclosed is a layered double hydroxide capable of delamination in water comprising a plurality of basal layers of a double hydroxide of Formula: M(II)1-xM(III)x(OH)2 wherein M(II) is Mg, Zn or a combination thereof, M(III) is Al, and x is 0.2 to 0.33 and a plurality of intercalated layers between each adjacent basal layers of Mg acetate, Zn acetate or Ce acetate and water of intercalation. A process for producing the layered double hydroxide is also disclosed. The layered double hydroxide find use as an vehicle component or an anti-corrosive pigment of water-based protective coatings for metallic substrates, and as a humectant or a stabilizing agent for cosmetic preparations such as lotions, creams or foundations.