Sodium Lactate: A Multifunctional Asset in Formulation
Derived as a salt of lactic acid, Sodium Lactate is a vital ingredient in the formulation cosmos, known for its superior moisture retention capabilities. Beyond its humectant properties, Sodium Lactate brings to the table a balanced pH, ensuring stability in a variety of formulations.

Quick Insights
Ingredient Rating:
GREAT
Type of Ingredient:
Hydrator, Moisturizer, Texture Enhancer, Conditioner, Anti-Frizz Agent, Exfoliant and Barrier Support
Intended Function:
To deeply hydrate skin and hair, support the skin barrier, improve texture, and balance pH.
Common Applications:
Used in moisturizers, serums, lotions, facial mists, cleansers, shampoos, conditioners, leave-in treatments, and scalp care products.
Target Audience:
Individuals with dry skin, dehydrated skin, sensitive skin, frizzy hair, damaged hair, or scalp concerns.
Also Known As:
Lactic Acid, Sodium Salt.
Sodium Lactate in Beauty & Personal Care
Sodium Lactate has cemented its position in skincare formulations due to its impressive hydration attributes. As a humectant, it pulls moisture from the environment, locking it into the skin and providing extended hydration. This ensures creams, serums, and lotions formulated with Sodium Lactate offer superior moisturization without a greasy residue. Additionally, by regulating the pH, Sodium Lactate ensures that the product remains stable over time, minimizing the need for excessive preservatives.
Sodium Lactate in Household & Wellness
Within the domain of household care, Sodium Lactate plays a foundational role in soaps and cleansers. By augmenting the soap’s hardness and clarity, it improves the product’s longevity and aesthetic appeal. Moreover, in wellness products like therapeutic massage lotions, Sodium Lactate’s moisture-retention capability ensures that the skin remains supple and well-hydrated post-application.
Sodium Lactate in Pet Care & Grooming
Pet care formulations demand ingredients that are gentle yet effective. Sodium Lactate’s humectant nature ensures pets’ skin remains moisturized, combating the dryness often induced by external factors. Whether it’s in shampoos, conditioners, or topical treatments, Sodium Lactate ensures a hydrating experience for pets, contributing to a shiny and healthy coat.
Safety Analysis
Sodium Lactate is generally recognized as safe for use in cosmetic formulations by organizations such as the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) and the European SCCS. Typical usage concentrations range between 1% and 5%, though it can be used up to 10% in some leave-on products. At appropriate concentrations, it is non-sensitizing and non-irritating. However, in higher concentrations or in very low-pH formulations, it may cause mild irritation or sensitivity, especially for compromised skin. Sodium Lactate is biodegradable, eco-friendly, and poses no significant risk to human health when formulated according to industry standards.

References
Craft Next-Gen Products with Sodium Lactate
Explore Sodium Lactate’s multifaceted benefits for your product lineup. With FormuNova’s expertise, leverage this ingredient for optimized product performance.
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