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Comprehensive Cosmetic Industry Ingredient Guide

THIS IS A UNIVERSAL REFERENCE GUIDE FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES

THE INGRIDIENT BELOW IS NOT USED IN MITOSKIN FORMULATION UNLESS STATED OTHERWISE

Ingredient
Sodium Stearate

Sodium Stearate

Summary

Sodium stearate is a commonly used cosmetic ingredient that functions as a surfactant, emulsifier, and thickener. It is derived from stearic acid, a fatty acid found in animal and vegetable fats. Sodium stearate is known for its ability to create stable emulsions and improve the texture and consistency of cosmetic formulations. It is often used in soaps, shampoos, and other personal care products to enhance their cleansing and foaming properties. Despite its widespread use, sodium stearate is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and has a low risk of causing skin irritation or other adverse effects.

INCI Name and Common References

INCI Name: Sodium Stearate Common Terms: Soap salt Nicknames: None

Function

Sodium stearate is a surfactant and emulsifying agent commonly used in cosmetic formulations. It helps to stabilize and thicken formulations, as well as improve their texture and spreadability. It also has cleansing properties and can help to remove dirt and oil from the skin. Sodium stearate is often used in soaps, shampoos, and other personal care products.

Science

Sodium stearate is a type of soap that is commonly used in personal care products such as shampoos, soaps, and lotions. It is made up of a long chain of fatty acids that are attached to a sodium ion. When sodium stearate is added to water, the fatty acid chains are attracted to the water molecules, while the sodium ion is repelled by the water molecules. This causes the sodium stearate molecules to form clusters, or micelles, with the fatty acid chains on the inside and the sodium ions on the outside. These micelles are able to trap dirt and oil, allowing them to be easily rinsed away. Additionally, the sodium ions in the micelles can help to soften hard water, making it easier for other ingredients in the product to work effectively. Overall, sodium stearate works by using its physical properties to create micelles that can effectively clean and soften the skin and hair.

Benefits

Sodium stearate is a common ingredient in skincare products that can provide several benefits to users. It is a natural emulsifier that helps to bind ingredients together, creating a smooth and creamy texture. Sodium stearate also has cleansing properties, helping to remove dirt and impurities from the skin. Additionally, it can help to regulate oil production, making it a great ingredient for those with oily or acne-prone skin. Sodium stearate is also known for its moisturizing properties, helping to hydrate and soften the skin. Overall, this ingredient can help to improve the texture and appearance of the skin, leaving it looking and feeling healthy and radiant.

Negatives

Sodium stearate is a common ingredient in many personal care and cosmetic products, including soaps, shampoos, and deodorants. While it is generally considered safe for use, there are some potential side effects, sensitivities, and interactions that should be considered. One potential side effect of sodium stearate is skin irritation. This can occur in individuals who are sensitive to the ingredient or who have pre-existing skin conditions. Symptoms of skin irritation may include redness, itching, and rash. Another potential side effect of sodium stearate is dryness. This can occur when the ingredient is used in high concentrations or in products that are designed to remove oil and moisture from the skin. Dryness can lead to flakiness, cracking, and other skin problems. Sodium stearate may also interact with other ingredients in personal care products. For example, it may react with certain preservatives or fragrances to create new compounds that can be irritating or harmful to the skin. It is important to carefully read product labels and avoid using products that contain ingredients that may interact with sodium stearate. Finally, some individuals may be sensitive to sodium stearate due to its origin. Sodium stearate is often derived from animal fats, which can be a concern for individuals who follow a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle. In these cases, it may be necessary to seek out products that use alternative ingredients. Overall, sodium stearate is a safe and effective ingredient that is widely used in personal care and cosmetic products. However, it is important to be aware of potential side effects, sensitivities, and interactions in order to use these products safely and effectively.

Source

Sodium Stearate is a synthetic ingredient that is derived from stearic acid, which is a fatty acid that can be found in animal and vegetable fats. The processing pathway of Sodium Stearate involves the reaction of stearic acid with sodium hydroxide, resulting in the formation of a salt. This salt is then purified and dried to produce Sodium Stearate, which is commonly used as a surfactant and emulsifier in various personal care and cosmetic products.

Safety

According to the EWG Skin Deep database, Sodium Stearate has a safety rating score of 1-2, which is considered to be a low to moderate hazard. This rating is based on the potential for skin irritation and allergic reactions, as well as concerns about organ toxicity and contamination with impurities. Other sources, such as the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel, have also evaluated Sodium Stearate and concluded that it is safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products at concentrations up to 10%. Overall, while Sodium Stearate may pose some risks, it is generally considered to be a safe ingredient when used as directed.

Sustainability

Sodium stearate is a common ingredient in many personal care and cosmetic products, including soaps, shampoos, and deodorants. It is a salt of stearic acid, which is derived from animal or vegetable fats. The environmental impact of sodium stearate depends on the source of the stearic acid used to make it. If the stearic acid is derived from animal fats, there may be ethical concerns about the treatment of animals in the production process. However, if the stearic acid is derived from vegetable fats, such as palm oil, there may be environmental concerns about deforestation and habitat destruction. To address these concerns, some companies have committed to using only sustainably sourced palm oil or other vegetable fats in their products. This means that the palm oil is grown and harvested in a way that minimizes environmental impact and protects the rights of local communities and workers. Overall, the environmental impact and ethical sourcing practices of sodium stearate depend on the specific source of the stearic acid used to make it. Consumers can look for products that use sustainably sourced ingredients and support companies that prioritize ethical and environmentally responsible practices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sodium stearate is a common ingredient used in various personal care and cosmetic products due to its emulsifying and cleansing properties. While it is generally considered safe for use, some studies suggest that it may have negative effects on the skin's natural barrier function. Sodium stearate can be derived from both animal and plant sources, with the latter being more sustainable. Overall, it is important to consider the potential benefits and drawbacks of sodium stearate when choosing personal care products.

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