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Moumoujus

SILVER CITRATE.

Valuable CAS 36701-38-9 / ANTIMICROBIAL, DEODORANT, PRESERVATIVE

Silver Citrate is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent recognized for its efficacy as a preservative in skincare formulations. It operates by disrupting bacterial and fungal growth, contributing to product stability and shelf-life, while also offering deodorizing benefits.

Summary

Antimicrobial Preservative Deodorant

Science

Mechanism of Action

Silver biocides work by multi-target action: they bind to and compromise the integrity of bacterial cell walls, denature vital microbial enzymes to eliminate the cell's energy source, and interfere with DNA replication, ultimately leading to rapid cellular demise. This mechanism effectively controls the proliferation of microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi on the skin, and can also help neutralize unpleasant body odors.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.1–0.3%
Optimal

0.2%

Key findings

  1. 01 Effective as a stand-alone preservative at concentrations between 0.1% and 0.3%, with 0.2% being the recommended maximum usage level in the EU for cosmetic products.
  2. 02 Studies indicate an overwhelmingly low probability of skin irritation and a very low risk of skin sensitization due to the minimal release of silver ions from its preservative carrier.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.1%
Red flag below
0.05%

Silver Citrate is an active ingredient with a defined functional concentration range for its preservative and antimicrobial properties. Concentrations significantly below its effective range (e.g., below 0.1%) would likely render it ineffective for its intended purpose and could be considered 'dusting'.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH ≤7
0 7 14

Stability

For optimal formulation stability, avoid pH levels exceeding 7 and temperatures above 50°C (122°F). It demonstrates stability in water at room temperature for over 180 days, and the presence of citric acid can further enhance its solubility and stability.

Synergies

  • Citric Acid (enhances solubility and stability)

Conflicts

  • Cationic ingredients
  • Formulations with pH above 7
  • Phosphate buffered saline (due to potential precipitation of silver ions by chloride)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
0.2%
Sensitization risk Low

While initially requiring further assessment, subsequent SCCS evaluations affirmed an overwhelmingly low potential for skin irritation and an exceedingly low risk of sensitization. It is classified as non-irritant and not a skin sensitizer. Approved as a preservative in the US and EU up to 0.2% (corresponding to 0.0024% silver in the EU) for aqueous leave-on and rinse-off products. In the US, it also functions as an approved deodorant active.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Silver Citrate is a valuable antimicrobial and preservative due to its broad-spectrum efficacy, low irritation profile, and suitability across all skin types, contributing significantly to product integrity and skin health.

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