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SODIUM POLYPHOSPHATE.

Valuable CAS 68915-31-1 / CHELATING

Sodium Polyphosphate is a multifaceted ingredient integral to cosmetic formulation stability, acting as a chelating agent and pH regulator. Beyond its foundational role in product integrity, soluble forms demonstrate emerging potential to support skin's natural regenerative and healing processes, particularly in areas with compromised blood flow.

Chelating Agent Preservative Stabilizer pH Regulator Moisture Retention Aid Energy Supplier (potential) Regenerative Aid (potential)

Science

On the skin and within formulations, Sodium Polyphosphate primarily functions by chelating metal ions like calcium and magnesium, thereby preventing interference with product stability and efficacy. It also contributes to product preservation against microbial growth (bacteria, molds, yeasts) and acts as a pH regulator. In cleansing products, it aids in maintaining skin's natural moisture balance. Furthermore, soluble polyphosphate exhibits biological activity, capable of inducing gene expression and supplying metabolic energy (ATP) through enzymatic cleavage, potentially fostering skin regeneration.


Research

Medium confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Soluble sodium polyphosphate (Na-polyP) has shown potential for regenerative repair and healing processes in various tissues, including skin, particularly where blood supply is insufficient. It can induce gene activity and act as an energy supplier by facilitating ATP formation via enzymatic cleavage of its acid anhydride bonds. Proof-of-concept studies for chronic wound healing in humans have been outlined, suggesting direct therapeutic benefits.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 3 – 9
0 7 14

Stability

Sodium Polyphosphate is highly hygroscopic and exceptionally soluble in water, with solutions typically maintaining a pH between 3 and 9. However, its solutions may exhibit instability under elevated processing temperatures and acidic pH conditions, which can diminish its dispersion properties. For certain functionalities, such as pigment dispersion, alkaline conditions (around pH 9) have been noted to be more effective than acidic conditions (e.g., pH 4).

Conflicts

  • High concentrations may lead to skin irritation.
  • Instability and reduced efficacy under high temperature processing.
  • Instability and reduced efficacy under highly acidic pH conditions.

Safety

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has not specifically reviewed 'Sodium Polyphosphate' as a standalone ingredient, although polyol phosphates as a group have been assessed. While some reports suggest potential skin irritation at high concentrations, a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) indicates it is not classified as a skin corrosive/irritant. It receives a 'low' irritation rating by EWG and is rated 'Irritant Free' by SkinSAFE, suggesting good tolerability in typical cosmetic formulations. Its use as a food additive and in dentifrice further supports its general safety profile.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Valuable

Sodium Polyphosphate is a valuable, multi-functional ingredient, crucial for maintaining product stability and integrity, with promising scientific evidence indicating its potential to support skin's regenerative processes.


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