Characteristics
- INCI
- Sodium Lactate
- CAS
-
72-17-3, 867-56-1
This is the substance number in the Chemical Abstracts Service registry. The CAS number uniquely identifies a substance regardless of language, trade name, or synonyms.
- EC
-
200-772-0, 212-762-3
This is the substance number in the European chemical identification system (EC number), used in European regulatory databases including ECHA/CosIng.
- IUPAC
- Sodium Lactate
- Functions
- buffering, humectant, keratolytic
Who it's for
Description
Sodium Lactate is the sodium salt of lactic acid, a naturally occurring component of the skin’s own moisturizing system. In cosmetics, it’s valued as a humectant, meaning it helps attract and hold water in the formula and on the skin. You’ll also see it used to help adjust and stabilize pH, which can improve how a product feels and performs. Because it is part of the skin’s natural moisturizing factors, it’s a familiar, skin-friendly ingredient in many hydrating products.
For skin, sodium lactate can help reduce the feeling of dryness and support a smoother, more comfortable finish. It’s especially useful in lotions, creams, cleansers, and body care for people with normal to dry skin, or anyone looking for extra hydration without a heavy, oily feel. In hair care, it can add moisture and improve softness in conditioners and masks. One caveat: at higher levels, sodium lactate may feel tacky or sting on very sensitive or compromised skin, so formula balance matters. It’s also widely accepted by natural certification standards such as ECOCERT and COSMOS.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sodium Lactate
What is sodium lactate used for in skincare?
Is sodium lactate good for dry or sensitive skin?
How does sodium lactate work in soap?
Can sodium lactate be used in lotion?
Are there any risks or downsides to sodium lactate?
Products with Sodium Lactate (6 752 total)
Most often found in Bielenda products (67 items)
