Sodium Carbonate, commonly referred to as soda ash or washing soda, is a white, crystalline powder with strong alkalizing properties. In skincare, it is primarily used to regulate pH levels, enhance the efficacy of cleansing agents, and assist in mild exfoliation by helping remove oils, dirt, and dead skin cells. Its ability to create richer lather makes it valuable in soap bars, foaming cleansers, and shampoo and conditioner formulations.
Though less common in haircare, Sodium Carbonate contributes to improved cleansing and helps balance the pH of formulations, which can improve the performance of surfactants and preserve product stability.
Quick Insights
Ingredient Rating:
GREAT
Type of Ingredient:
Texture Enhancer, Cleansing Agent and Exfoliant
Intended Function:
Stabilizes formulation pH and boosts cleansing performance while aiding gentle removal of impurities.
Common Applications:
Used in soap bars, foaming cleansers, exfoliating powders, shampoo and conditioner bases, and lotion systems where modest alkalinity is required.
Target Audience:
Formulators of cleansers, shampoos, exfoliants, and personal care products who need effective pH control, enhanced lather, and mild exfoliating support.
Also Known As:
Soda Ash, Soda Crystals, Washing Soda, Sodium Dicarbonate.
Safety Analysis
Sodium Carbonate is affirmed safe as a cosmetic ingredient by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel. The 1987 evaluation — and reaffirmed in 2006 and again in recent re-reviews — found it safe when used appropriately in cosmetic formulations . However, concentrated solutions (with pH above 11) can be irritating to skin and eyes, due to its high alkalinity. This is why it is typically used at low percentages or in formulations designed for dilution (e.g., bath products) or where buffering brings pH toward neutrality. Sensitization and phototoxicity are not concerns: no evidence of human sensitization, and phototoxicity testing was deemed unnecessary by the CIR Panel, as Sodium Carbonate lacks chromophores.
References
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