Sodium Carbonate
pH regulator. In small amounts neutralizes formula acids, safe.
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, Oily, Combination, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Sodium Carbonate (E500, soda ash) is an inorganic salt and pH regulator. In cosmetics – a component for neutralizing formula acidity, used in small amounts for fine pH adjustment. Where applied. In AHA/BHA chemical peels – for target pH control, in soap and surfactant products – to adjust pH toward alkaline, in toothpastes – as a mild abrasive and buffer. Cosmetic concentration 0.1-2%. Safety. CIR confirmed sodium carbonate safety in cosmetics (Final Report 2002). At concentrations above 5% it can irritate skin and mucosa due to high alkalinity. At typical cosmetic concentrations <2% – safe. Not systemically absorbed through intact skin. Soap controversy. Traditional soap (saponification of fats with alkali) has pH 9-10 due to residual sodium carbonates. This disrupts the skin's acid mantle (pH 4.7-5.5), which for healthy skin is temporary discomfort, but for dry, atopic, sensitive skin – a flare factor. Modern syndet face washes use synthetic surfactants at pH 5-6, without sodium carbonate. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Food additive E500, no cosmetic restrictions.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sodium Carbonate safe during pregnancy?
Sodium Carbonate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Sodium Carbonate for?
Sodium Carbonate suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
What is Sodium Carbonate and what does it do in cosmetics?
pH regulator.
What's the INCI name for Sodium Carbonate?
The INCI name is Sodium Carbonate. It may also appear as: E500, Soda Ash.
See Sodium Carbonate in a product composition right on the store page
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Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Sodium Carrageenan, Sodium Cetearyl Sulfate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Cholate, Xanthan Gum, CI 42090 (Blue 1), Hydroxypropylcellulose, PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone
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