Sodium salt of phytic acid. A chelator that binds heavy-metal ions (iron, copper, calcium), preventing oxidation of formula components and extending shelf life. No standalone active skin effect.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
Functional component, formula stabiliser. No standalone clinical skin effect. At higher concentrations phytic acid itself is also used as a mild exfoliant (see the separate Phytic Acid entry).
Sodium Phytate is the sodium salt of phytic acid (myo-inositol hexaphosphate). A natural chelator obtained from bran and other plant sources. Biodegradable alternative to EDTA. Mechanism. Binds heavy-metal ions (iron, copper, zinc) and calcium in the formula. Without a chelator these ions catalyse oxidation of oils, retinoids and vitamin C, precipitate anionic surfactants and darken emulsions. Sodium phytate fits clean formulations because it fully biodegrades. Where applied. Antioxidant serums, oil-rich emulsions, creams with oxidation-sensitive actives. In Spain it features in clean formulas by Freshly Cosmetics and Babé Laboratorios. Evidence base. Marketing positioning as a brightening active (in vitro melanogenesis suppression) is not confirmed by clinical studies at typical cosmetic concentrations. Safety. CIR confirmed safety at cosmetic concentrations. Non-sensitizing, non-comedogenic. No systemic absorption. Pregnancy and lactation – safe.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Sodium Phytate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Sodium Phytate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
Sodium salt of phytic acid.
The INCI name is Sodium Phytate. It may also appear as: Phytate, Фитат, Фитат натрия.
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