Ammonium Hydroxide
An alkaline pH adjuster. It brings the formula acidity to target at low levels. Well tolerated at cosmetic levels.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Ammonium Hydroxide is a water solution of ammonia. INCI: Ammonium Hydroxide. In cosmetics it is a technical pH adjuster: it is added in very small amounts to raise the alkalinity of a formula to the target value. It appears most often in hair dyes and chemical formulas. It is a functional component, not a skincare active. In a finished product with adjusted pH it is present in a safe form, not as concentrated ammonia. Pregnancy safety. As a pH adjuster in the final product it is systemically negligible, with no evidence of harm. It can be used during pregnancy and lactation. Tolerance. In concentrated form it irritates, but in a formula with adjusted pH the irritation potential is low.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ammonium Hydroxide safe during pregnancy?
Ammonium Hydroxide is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Ammonium Hydroxide for?
Ammonium Hydroxide suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Ammonium Hydroxide and what does it do in cosmetics?
An alkaline pH adjuster.
What's the INCI name for Ammonium Hydroxide?
The INCI name is Ammonium Hydroxide.
See Ammonium Hydroxide in a product composition right on the store page
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Similar role in the formula
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