SpottyLabs logoSpottylabs
Home › Ingredients › Sodium Hydroxide

Sodium Hydroxide

Sodium hydroxide is a strong alkaline compound used in cosmetics to adjust the pH of a product, ensuring it is safe and effective for skin. It is also essential in the saponification process for making true soap. In finished products, it is typically present in very low concentrations or has reacted completely.

PH adjusterVegan
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

See how this matches your skin

Find out exactly what you put onto your skin. Scan any product before you buy. Free and independent — no brand is paying us. Available on Android and iOS.

QR code linking to the SpottyLabs app on Google Play
QR code linking to the SpottyLabs app on the App Store

Products with Sodium Hydroxide

Hydrotenseur Crema Antirughe Ristrutturante Ricca
Rilastil
Hydrotenseur Crema Antirughe Ristrutturante Ricca
4.7/ 522/23/3
Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum
Anua
Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum
4.7/ 525/8/2
Blemish Control Cleanser
CeraVe
Blemish Control Cleanser
4.7/ 59/16/2
Hydrotenseur Restructuring Anti-Wrinkle Cream
Rilastil
Hydrotenseur Restructuring Anti-Wrinkle Cream
4.7/ 522/23/3

Browse all products →

Frequently asked questions

Is sodium hydroxide safe in skincare products?
When used in cosmetic formulations, sodium hydroxide is carefully controlled to ensure the final product's pH is safe for skin. In most finished products, it is either present in very low, non-irritating concentrations or has been fully reacted, for example, in true soap making.
Why is sodium hydroxide listed if it's dangerous?
Sodium hydroxide is a potent ingredient that is crucial for specific formulation purposes, such as adjusting pH or creating soap. Its presence on an ingredient list indicates its use during manufacturing, but the final product is formulated to be safe and non-irritating.