What is "SODIUM HYDROXIDE" and what does it do?
Role: PH ADJUSTER
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Comedogenic index: 0
Sodium hydroxide, better known by its less refined name of caustic soda, is a highly alkaline white solid substance. It is used in small quantities to adjust the pH of a product to make it optimal.
In the case of exfoliants, the right pH is of paramount importance. This is where pH regulators such as sodium hydroxide come into play.
This component is mainly used to adjust and stabilize the pH of cosmetic products. It is particularly present in cleansers and exfoliants left on the skin, where the pH must be maintained within a specific range for optimum effectiveness.
In addition to its use in skin care products, sodium hydroxide is employed in hair and nail care products, such as cuticle solvents and hair straighteners. Concentrations vary according to use, from low percentages in skin care products to higher levels in other applications.
Although its pure pH level is 13, in cosmetics its use is limited to a maximum pH of 11. It is important to note that sodium hydroxide can be a skin sensitizer at concentrations of 10% or higher.
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