Is Sodium Benzoate safe to use in cosmetics?

Sodium Benzoate is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics at approved concentrations. Regulatory bodies worldwide have reviewed its safety, and it is widely permitted as a preservative.

Can Sodium Benzoate react with other ingredients?

Under specific conditions, Sodium Benzoate can react with ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) to form benzene. Formulators typically avoid this combination or ensure conditions prevent this reaction.

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Sodium Benzoate

Sodium Benzoate is a widely used preservative in cosmetics, food, and pharmaceuticals. It works by inhibiting the growth of mold, yeast, and some bacteria, thereby extending the shelf-life of products. It is most effective in acidic formulations.

PreservativeVegan

BenefitNone 0 / 4

RiskLow 1 / 4

Irritation i0.5 / 4

Risk of short-term irritation — stinging, burning, dryness, redness, or discomfort. Common for strong actives, acids, retinoids, fragrances, and harsh surfactants.

Rated by SpottyLabs' ingredient methodology, independent of brands.

Things to watch

potential for mild irritation
can form benzene with ascorbic acid

Be careful combining with

Vitamin C — Sodium benzoate can react with ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) in certain conditions to form benzene, a known carcinogen. While this reaction is rare in cosmetic formulations, it's a consideration.

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Products with Sodium Benzoate

CeraVe

Blemish Control Cleanser

4.7/ 59/16/2

Drunk Elephant

Protini Powerpeptide Resurf Serum

4.7/ 544/27/6

Avène

Hyaluron Activ B3 Multi-Intensive Night Cream

4.7/ 511/13/3

Rilastil

Hydrotenseur Crema Antiarrugas Reestructurante

4.7/ 522/24/3

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Frequently asked questions

Is Sodium Benzoate safe to use in cosmetics?: Sodium Benzoate is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics at approved concentrations. Regulatory bodies worldwide have reviewed its safety, and it is widely permitted as a preservative.
Can Sodium Benzoate react with other ingredients?: Under specific conditions, Sodium Benzoate can react with ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) to form benzene. Formulators typically avoid this combination or ensure conditions prevent this reaction.