Sodium Hydroxide

It is also known as lye or caustic soda, is a highly alkaline compound commonly used in skincare products in very small amounts as a pH adjuster. By helping to balance the pH of formulations, it ensures that products remain safe and effective for the skin.

Benefits in Skincare:

• pH Adjuster: Sodium Hydroxide is primarily used to adjust and stabilize the pH level of skincare formulations, ensuring they are not too acidic or alkaline and are compatible with the skin's natural pH.

• Formulation Stabilizer: It helps maintain product stability and consistency, enhancing the performance and longevity of other active ingredients within a formula.

Considerations:

• Used in Low Concentrations: Sodium Hydroxide is only added in very low concentrations, usually below 1%, which is safe and non-irritating. Higher concentrations, such as those found in household cleaning products, are not used in skincare due to the risk of irritation.

• Not for Direct Skincare Benefits: While it does not provide direct skincare benefits like hydration or antioxidant protection, its role is essential for ensuring that a product’s active ingredients function effectively and safely.

Sodium Hydroxide is an important, carefully regulated ingredient in skincare that plays a crucial role in balancing and stabilizing formulations, allowing other ingredients to perform optimally without causing skin irritation.