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Moumoujus

SODIUM CHLORIDE.

Valuable CAS 7647-14-5 / BULKING, FRAGRANCE, ORAL CARE, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

Sodium Chloride, commonly known as salt, is a versatile electrolyte impacting skin through osmotic action, promoting anti-inflammatory effects, and aiding in cleansing. Its ability to modulate cellular hydration makes it valuable in addressing conditions like acne and eczema within specific concentration ranges.

Summary

Thickener Emulsion Stabilizer Abrasive Humectant (low concentrations) Cleansing Agent Antibacterial pH Regulator Anti-inflammatory

Science

Mechanism of Action

Sodium chloride primarily influences skin via osmotic processes; at higher concentrations (hypertonic), it draws water out of cells, which can reduce swelling and redness. Conversely, in lower concentrations, it can exhibit humectant properties, attracting ambient moisture to the skin's surface. It acts as an effective cleansing agent by helping to dislodge oils and impurities and can serve as a mild physical exfoliant due to its crystalline structure. Furthermore, its high-osmolarity solutions possess antibacterial qualities by dehydrating microorganisms. It also plays a crucial role in stabilizing formulations and regulating pH. Research suggests that elevated sodium levels in the skin may contribute to TH2 cell responses in atopic dermatitis via osmosensitive pathways.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.9–5%
Optimal

Concentrations between 0.9% and 5% are noted for anti-inflammatory efficacy.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Sodium chloride is highly water-soluble, forming clear solutions, and is chemically stable under typical conditions. It functions as a stabilizer, preventing ingredient separation or crystallization, and acts as an emulsion stabilizer in water-in-oil systems.

Conflicts

  • High concentrations may negatively interact with potent active ingredients such as Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs).
  • Excessive sodium chloride can induce 'salting out' in surfactant systems, leading to a reduction in viscosity and making formulations runny.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Deferred evaluation
Max tested
5%
Sensitization risk Low

The U.S. FDA recognizes sodium chloride as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) and approves its use as an active OTC ingredient for ocular products at 2% to 5%. While generally safe, concentrations exceeding 5% can induce irritation, dryness, redness, and inflammation, particularly in individuals with sensitive or compromised skin barriers. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Board (CIR) deferred evaluation due to prior FDA assessments.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
No Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Medium
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Sodium chloride is a valuable and versatile ingredient in skincare, offering benefits from anti-inflammatory action to formulation stability, provided it is utilized within appropriate concentrations to avoid potential irritation.

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