Sodiumlactate

SOD

8/10

Concern level

High concern

Sodium lactate is the sodium salt of lactic acid and a strong humectant used to attract and bind water in skincare; it also functions as a buffering and pH-adjusting ingredient. PubChem lists it as an organic sodium salt with molecular weight 112.06 g/mol, and CIR considers lactic acid salts safe in cosmetics up to 10% at final formulation pH ≥ 3.5 when formulated to avoid increased sun sensitivity. ([pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Sodium-Lactate?utm_source=openai))

Pore-clogging

Non-comedogenic

Pregnancy

Safe

Regulatory

No data

Benefits

MoisturizingSupports Barrier Function

Chemical Properties

Molecular Weight

112.06 g/mol

pH Range

3.50 - 7.00

Typical Concentration

0.50% - 10.00%

CAS Number: 72-17-3

Skin Type Compatibility

dry skin9/10

oily skin6/10

sensitive skin6/10

acne prone6/10

mature skin8/10

normal skin8/10

Interactions

incompatible with: strong exfoliating acids at low pH, high-strength retinoids in very sensitized routines, use caution when layering with other low-pH actives

Risks & Warnings

Can sting or irritate compromised, freshly exfoliated, or very sensitive skin at higher use levels; overuse in low-pH acid systems may increase irritation. CIR notes acid-salt systems should be formulated to avoid increasing sun sensitivity. ([pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Sodium-Lactate?utm_source=openai))

Vegan Cruelty-Free

Found In Products

The Ordinary