Ingredient · Updated
Sodium Hydroxide
Found in 21 productsSee all
W3LL People Dew Your Makeup Mist 3-in-1 Setting Spray 
BASED Leave In Conditioner (Santal) 
Dr. Bronner's Magic Bar Soap - Peppermint - Pure-Castile Soap - for Face Body Hands 
COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence 
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 
Monika Blunder Beauty Liquid Flush Cheek Tint 
Kosas Chemistry AHA Serum Deodorant in Beachy Clean 
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Lotion Exfoliant What is Sodium Hydroxide?
Sodium Hydroxide is an inorganic compound that appears as a white, solid, and highly alkaline substance. It is produced by electrolyzing sodium chloride (salt) solution, resulting in sodium hydroxide, chlorine, and hydrogen.
In food and cosmetic products, it serves primarily as a pH regulator due to its high alkalinity. Sodium Hydroxide is commonly used in skin care and hair care for its ability to adjust acidity and promote the desired texture. While it is necessary in small, controlled amounts, excessive exposure can be harmful.
On product labels, Sodium Hydroxide indicates the inclusion of a compound that is well-regulated and generally safe when used as intended, though it should be handled with care in its raw form due to its caustic nature.
Commonly found in: Body Lotion, Skin Care, Hair Care, Makeup, Whitening, Salty Snacks
What to watch
- Sodium Hydroxide can cause skin irritation if used in high concentrations or improperly handled.
Sodium Hydroxide is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when used in accordance with good manufacturing practices.
Research supports its use in regulated amounts as safe, with caution urged due to irritation potential at high levels.
Sodium Hydroxide is not animal-derived and is considered vegan-friendly.
Scout's take
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
The case against
In high concentrations, it can be corrosive and cause skin irritation.
from the analysis of Dapple On the Go Fragrance Free Dish Soap Travel Size · echoed in 3 other analysesIt can cause irritation or burns if used in high concentrations.
from the analysis of Monika Blunder Beauty Liquid Flush Cheek Tint · echoed in 1 other analysisIn its raw form, it is highly caustic and can cause burns, but it is neutralized in soap.
from the analysis of Dr. Bronner's Magic Bar Soap - Peppermint - Pure-Castile Soap - for Face Body HandsPotential risks include skin irritation and corrosiveness in high concentrations.
from the analysis of Carpe Antiperspirant for Underarms / Aluminum Sesquichlorohydrate / LOTIONCan cause skin and eye irritation if not handled properly.
from the analysis of Seventh Generation Dishwasher Detergent Gel Lemon ScentThe case for
When used in small amounts, it helps to optimize the cleaning power of the formulation.
from the analysis of Dapple On the Go Fragrance Free Dish Soap Travel SizeIt helps to balance the pH of the product, ensuring it is safe for skin application.
from the analysis of Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash with Coconut ScentIt is necessary for the saponification process, transforming oils into soap.
from the analysis of Dr. Bronner's Magic Bar Soap - Peppermint - Pure-Castile Soap - for Face Body HandsIt helps in adjusting the pH of formulations, ensuring product stability.
from the analysis of Carpe Antiperspirant for Underarms / Aluminum Sesquichlorohydrate / LOTIONIt helps to balance the pH of the product for optimal performance.
from the analysis of Monika Blunder Beauty Liquid Flush Cheek TintMore from Scout's analyses
pH adjuster used at trace levels.
from the analysis of Cetaphil Moisturizing CreamSodium Hydroxide is used in soap making to saponify oils, turning them into soap. It is essential for the soap-making process but is not present in the final product. Properly formulated, it poses no risk in finished soap.
from the analysis of Dr. Bronner's Magic Bar Soap - Peppermint - Pure-Castile Soap - for Face Body HandsAll 21 products with Sodium Hydroxide
Where Sodium Hydroxide shows up
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