Sodium Hydroxide

pH adjuster that helps balance the acidity or alkalinity of a product Sodium Hydroxide primarily functions as a potent pH adjuster in cosmetic formulations, raising the pH to a desired alkaline range. This adjustment can optimize product stability, modify ingredient solubility, or create an environment for specific reactions, such as saponification in soap production. At higher concentrations, it acts as a keratolytic agent by hydrolyzing protein bonds in the stratum corneum and hair keratin, facilitating exfoliation or hair removal in depilatories.

Sodium Hydroxide is considered safe for use in cosmetics by the CIR Expert Panel when formulated to be non-irritating, with the final product having a pH below 11. As a strong alkali, it can cause severe skin irritation, chemical burns, and eye damage at high concentrations or in products with uncontrolled pH. It is not recognized as a skin sensitizer.

Look for products with Typically used at 0.01-1% for pH adjustment to achieve a desired final product pH. In professional chemical peels or depilatories, concentrations can be higher (e.g., up to 5% or more, depending on application and product type), though its concentration in the final product after reaction (e.g., in soap) is negligible. for clinical efficacy.