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SODIUM CARBOXYMETHYL DEXTRAN SULFATE.

Valuable / HUMECTANT, SKIN CONDITIONING, SKIN PROTECTING

SODIUM CARBOXYMETHYL DEXTRAN SULFATE is a versatile modified polysaccharide derived from dextran, engineered to enhance skin hydration by attracting and retaining moisture. Beyond its humectant properties, it serves as a critical formulation aid, contributing to product stability, texture, and performance.

Summary

Humectant Viscosity controlling Gel forming Binding agent Emulsion stabilising Stabilizer Emulsifier Skin conditioning Skin protection

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions as a polyanion due to its negatively charged carboxymethyl groups, which significantly boost its water solubility and interaction capabilities. On the skin, it acts as a humectant, drawing in and holding moisture to enhance hydration levels and refine skin texture. In formulations, its polyanionic nature allows it to stabilize emulsions, control viscosity, bind ingredients, and form gels.

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 6 – 7
0 7 14

Stability

SODIUM CARBOXYMETHYL DEXTRAN SULFATE exhibits excellent stability and solubility in water and electrolyte solutions. For optimal storage, a pH range of 6-7 is recommended, though it remains stable between pH 4-10 at ambient temperatures for extended durations. Its polyanionic charge is pH-dependent, with carboxyl groups protonating at very low pH (0–2), which can reduce electrostatic interactions. Significant pH shifts across the sulfate group's titratable range may lead to polymer expansion and contraction, potentially destabilizing ionically crosslinked networks.

Conflicts

  • Reduced long-term physical stability when forming nanoplexes with certain drugs, particularly those prone to crystallization (observed with dextran sulfate).
  • Potential interactions with positively charged molecules (cations) due to its polyanionic nature.
  • Possible interactions with partially ionized active pharmaceutical ingredients, which may lead to decreased solubility or the formation of viscous barriers.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk Unknown

While SODIUM CARBOXYMETHYL DEXTRAN SULFATE lacks a direct CIR safety assessment, its component 'Carboxymethyl Dextran' is generally regarded as safe and biocompatible. A related compound, 'Sodium Dextran Sulfate,' has been classified by EWG with 'LOW' concerns for cancer, allergies, immunotoxicity, and developmental/reproductive toxicity. However, GHS classifications for 'Sodium Dextran Sulfate' indicate potential for skin and serious eye irritation. A CIR panel, reviewing 'Microbial Polysaccharide Gums' including 'dextran sulfate,' concluded that observed intestinal tumor effects in rodents were not relevant to cosmetic applications, suggesting overall safety in cosmetic use. Irritancy for this specific compound remains unknown per Incidecoder.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

SODIUM CARBOXYMETHYL DEXTRAN SULFATE is a valuable ingredient, effectively enhancing skin hydration as a humectant while providing essential rheological and stabilization benefits to diverse skincare formulations.

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