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Comprehensive Cosmetic Industry Ingredient Guide

THIS IS A UNIVERSAL REFERENCE GUIDE FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES

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Ingredient
AMMONIUM BISULFITE

AMMONIUM BISULFITE

Summary

Ammonium bisulfite is a versatile cosmetic ingredient that is commonly used as a reducing agent, preservative, and pH adjuster in a wide range of personal care products. It is particularly effective in hair care formulations, where it can help to reduce the appearance of frizz and improve manageability. Additionally, ammonium bisulfite has antimicrobial properties that make it a popular choice for use in skin care products. As a highly stable and water-soluble ingredient, it is easy to incorporate into formulations and can help to extend the shelf life of products. Overall, ammonium bisulfite is a valuable ingredient for cosmetic formulators looking to create effective and long-lasting personal care products.

INCI Name and Common References

International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients name: Ammonium Bisulfite Common terms: Ammonium hydrogen sulfite Nicknames: ABS

Function

Ammonium bisulfite is commonly used in cosmetic formulations as a reducing agent. It helps to break down and reduce the size of disulfide bonds in hair, making it easier to style and manage. It is often found in hair straightening and relaxing products, as well as in hair color treatments to help the color penetrate the hair shaft more effectively. Additionally, ammonium bisulfite can also act as a preservative in cosmetic formulations, helping to extend the shelf life of the product.

Science

Ammonium bisulfite is a chemical compound with the formula (NH4)HSO3. It is a colorless liquid with a pungent odor and is highly soluble in water. Ammonium bisulfite works as a reducing agent due to its ability to donate hydrogen ions (H+) to other compounds. This reaction results in the formation of sulfur dioxide gas (SO2), which is a powerful reducing agent. The sulfur dioxide gas reacts with oxygen in the air to form sulfur trioxide (SO3), which is a strong oxidizing agent. This reaction cycle allows ammonium bisulfite to act as a versatile reducing agent in a variety of chemical reactions. Additionally, ammonium bisulfite is commonly used as a food preservative due to its ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi.

Benefits

There are no significant skincare benefits associated with ammonium bisulfite. It is primarily used as a food preservative and in industrial applications.

Negatives

Ammonium bisulfite is a chemical compound that is commonly used as a food preservative and in the production of paper and textiles. While it is generally considered safe for consumption and use, there are some potential side effects, sensitivities, and interactions that should be taken into consideration. One of the main concerns with ammonium bisulfite is its potential to cause allergic reactions in some individuals. People who are sensitive to sulfites may experience symptoms such as hives, itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing when exposed to this ingredient. It is important for individuals with sulfite allergies to read food labels carefully and avoid products that contain ammonium bisulfite. Another potential side effect of ammonium bisulfite is its ability to irritate the skin and eyes. Exposure to this chemical can cause redness, itching, and burning sensations, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin. It is important to wear protective gloves and eye gear when handling ammonium bisulfite to avoid skin and eye irritation. Ammonium bisulfite may also interact with other ingredients in certain products. For example, it can react with certain types of acids to produce toxic gases, so it should not be used in combination with acidic ingredients such as vinegar or lemon juice. Additionally, it may react with certain types of metals, such as copper or brass, which can cause discoloration or corrosion. Overall, while ammonium bisulfite is generally considered safe for use in food and other products, it is important to be aware of its potential side effects, sensitivities, and interactions. Individuals with sulfite allergies should avoid products that contain this ingredient, and those who handle ammonium bisulfite should take appropriate safety precautions to avoid skin and eye irritation.

Source

Ammonium bisulfite is a synthetic ingredient that is derived from ammonia and sulfur dioxide. It is commonly used as a food preservative and in the production of paper and textiles. The processing pathway for ammonium bisulfite involves the reaction of ammonia and sulfur dioxide in water to form ammonium bisulfite. The resulting solution is then purified and concentrated to the desired strength.

Safety

According to the Environmental Working Group's Skin Deep database, Ammonium Bisulfite has a low hazard rating of 1 out of 10. However, it is important to note that this rating is based on limited data and research on the ingredient's potential health effects. Other sources such as the National Library of Medicine's Hazardous Substances Data Bank also list Ammonium Bisulfite as a hazardous substance with potential health risks if ingested or inhaled in large amounts. As with any chemical, it is important to use caution and follow proper safety guidelines when handling Ammonium Bisulfite.

Sustainability

Ammonium bisulfite is a chemical compound that is commonly used as a food preservative and in the production of paper and textiles. While it is not considered to be a major environmental pollutant, its production and use can have some negative impacts on the environment. One of the main environmental concerns associated with ammonium bisulfite is its potential to release sulfur dioxide gas into the atmosphere. Sulfur dioxide is a harmful air pollutant that can contribute to acid rain and respiratory problems in humans and animals. However, modern production methods have significantly reduced the amount of sulfur dioxide emissions associated with ammonium bisulfite production. In terms of ethical sourcing practices, it is important to ensure that the ammonium bisulfite used in food production is sourced from reputable suppliers who adhere to strict safety and quality standards. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the production of ammonium bisulfite does not involve the exploitation of workers or the violation of human rights. Overall, while ammonium bisulfite does have some environmental and ethical concerns associated with its production and use, these can be mitigated through responsible sourcing and production practices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ammonium bisulfite is a versatile ingredient that serves as a reducing agent, preservative, and disinfectant in various industries. Its chemical properties make it effective in preventing oxidation and microbial growth, but it also has some potential negative effects on human health and the environment. Ammonium bisulfite can be sourced from natural and synthetic sources, and its safety and sustainability depend on proper handling and disposal. Overall, while ammonium bisulfite has its benefits, it is important to use it responsibly and consider alternative ingredients when possible.

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