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Moumoujus

MEA-SULFITE.

Questionable CAS 13427-63-9 / HAIR FIXING

MEA-SULFITE is an ethanolamine salt of hydrogen sulfite, serving as a multifunctional ingredient primarily recognized for its roles as a reducing agent, antioxidant, and preservative in cosmetic formulations, designed to prevent oxidative degradation and maintain product stability.

Summary

antioxidant preservative reducing agent hair fixative antimicrobial

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a sulfite compound, MEA-SULFITE functions by acting as a reducing agent and antioxidant, effectively neutralizing reactive oxygen species and hindering oxidation processes. Its activity on skin is theorized to involve the sulfite di-anion acting as a nucleophile, modifying proteins, which may render them antigenic and potentially lead to allergic contact dermatitis. Additionally, it exhibits antimicrobial properties by interfering with critical microbial enzymes, disrupting energy production, and altering internal pH, thereby contributing to formula preservation and targeting microorganisms.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 5 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

Optimal stability for MEA-SULFITE in cosmetic or dermatological compositions, particularly when combined with plant extracts, is observed within a pH range of 5 to 8. However, direct incorporation of sulfites into cosmetic solutions may result in unacceptable odors at pH levels between 5 and 7, or under more acidic conditions. MEA-SULFITE is incompatible with strong acids and oxidizing agents, interactions that can lead to the release of toxic sulfur dioxide gas. It also undergoes slow decomposition with concomitant sulfur dioxide release upon contact with moisture.

Conflicts

  • strong acids
  • oxidizing agents
  • moisture

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk Moderate

While the CIR Expert Panel reviewed a group of inorganic sulfites and affirmed their safety for cosmetic use, MEA-SULFITE, an organic ethanolamine salt, has not been explicitly evaluated. Concerns regarding increased use frequency, contact sensitization reports, and asthmatic responses have been associated with the broader sulfite class, influencing re-evaluations. The FDA mandates declaration of sulfites at concentrations of 10 ppm or higher in food products due to potential allergic reactions.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

No Normal
No Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Unknown
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Questionable

While MEA-SULFITE exhibits beneficial antioxidant and preservative properties for formulation integrity, its specific safety profile for direct skin applications remains unreviewed by key cosmetic regulatory bodies, and its known mechanistic actions raise concerns regarding potential allergic contact dermatitis.

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