Sodium benzoate is a preservative commonly used in cosmetics, personal care products, and food to prevent the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold. Here are some details about sodium benzoate in skin care products:
Positive:
- Sodium benzoate is effective at inhibiting the growth of fungus, yeast, and bacteria in personal care products.
Negative:
- Sodium benzoate can cause irritation and inflammation in certain skin types.
- When mixed with ascorbic acid (vitamin C), sodium benzoate can produce benzene, a carcinogen.
- A 2022 study found that preservatives such as sodium benzoate in food and drink can lead to inflammation in the body, which can be chronic in people with obesity.
Ingredients or materials:
- Sodium benzoate is the salt product of benzoic acid.
- It is naturally occurring in fruits such as apples, cranberries, prunes, and plums.
- Sodium benzoate is often used as a preservative in foods and beverages that also contain vitamin C.
- Sodium benzoate is commonly used as an anti-corrosive and preservative in personal care products such as mouthwash, hair products, sunscreen, moisturizers, serums, and baby wipes.
Overall, while sodium benzoate is generally considered safe, it can cause irritation and inflammation in certain skin types, and there are concerns about its potential to produce benzene when mixed with vitamin C. People with sensitive skin should be cautious when using products containing sodium benzoate, and its important to read ingredient labels carefully before purchasing skin care products.
