Ingredient glossary

Sodium Lactate

INCI: Sodium Lactate

Solid and proven

A genuinely useful ingredient with real evidence behind it, not hype.

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What it does

  • hydration
  • pH buffer

moderate evidenceStudies on natural moisturizing factor components support sodium lactate as an effective water-binding agent that enhances hydration at modest levels.

On a label: usually effective at 1-5%.

Who it's for, and who should skip it

Tends to suit

  • dry
  • dehydrated
  • all

Approach with care

  • very sensitive if high pH
  • Clogs poresLow
  • Irritation riskLow
  • pH-dependentIts effect depends on the product's pH

Plays well with

  • humectants
  • emollients

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Educational information about a cosmetic ingredient, not medical advice.