Quick Insights
Ingredient Rating:
GOOD
Type of Ingredient:
Preservative
Intended Function:
Functions as a preservative (antimicrobial), protecting water-containing formulations from yeast, mold, and bacterial spoilage. Its activity is pH-dependent and strongest in acidic systems (optimal below roughly pH 5), so it is used in low-pH products and frequently paired with potassium sorbate for broader, more robust preservation.
Common Applications:
Commonly used in shampoos, conditioners, micellar waters, facial cleansers, toners, and acidic serums and essences — essentially any water-containing formula held at a low pH.
Target Audience:
Ideal for brands formulating water-based or acidic products — shampoos, cleansers, toners, micellar waters, and serums — who need a globally approved, cost-effective, paraben-free preservative. Especially suited to clean-positioned lines seeking a well-recognized alternative to parabens and formaldehyde-releasers.
Also Known As:
Benzoic acid, sodium salt, Sodium salt of benzoic acid, Benzoate of soda, E211, Natrium benzoate
Safety Analysis
Sodium Benzoate is one of the best-characterized preservatives available. The FDA affirms it as GRAS for food (21 CFR 184.1733); the EU permits it as a cosmetic preservative under Annex V — up to 2.5% (as benzoic acid) in rinse-off products, 1.7% in oral care, and 0.5% in leave-on products; and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded it is safe as used in current practices of concentration. It is non-genotoxic, non-carcinogenic, and not a reproductive or developmental toxicant, with low irritation and sensitization potential at typical cosmetic use levels (around 0.1-0.5%). Rare non-immunologic (“pseudo-allergic”) contact reactions can occur, more often in individuals prone to urticaria. The main formulation caveat is its potential to form trace benzene in the presence of ascorbic acid under heat and light, which is avoidable through standard formulation controls (low pH, chelation, antioxidant, and protection from light and heat).
References
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