Sodium Lactate Liquid

Product Appearance:

• Form: Clear, colorless, slightly syrupy liquid.
• Odor: Odorless to very faintly salty.
• Texture: Smooth and watery; it lacks the heavy “drag” or “stickiness” of Glycerine.

Product Solubility:

• Water: Highly soluble and miscible.
• Alcohol: Soluble.
• Oil: Insoluble.

Possible Usage Rate: 4.0 – 9.0

• Facial Creams & Lotions: 1% – 3%
• Bar Soaps (Cold Process): 1% – 3% (calculated based on oil weight)
• Body Washes & Shampoos: 2% – 5%
• Intensive Hand Creams: 3% – 5%

Stable pH Range in Formula:

Product Description

Sodium Lactate is the sodium salt of lactic acid, produced by the fermentation of a sugar source (like corn or beets). It is a vital component of the skin’s Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF). Scientifically, it is a superior humectant: research shows it has twice the water-holding capacity of Glycerine. In skincare, it provides intense hydration and helps to “buffer” the pH of a product, making it more stable. In soap making, it is a legendary additive that results in a harder, smoother bar of soap that is easier to unmold and lasts longer in the shower.

Possible Uses/Applications:

• Intensive Hydration Creams: Boosting the moisture-binding capacity of a formula without adding thickness.
• Hardened Bar Soaps: A legendary additive that creates a harder, smoother bar that is easier to unmold.
• pH-Balanced Cleansers: Helping to stabilize and buffer the acidity of facial washes.
• “Synergistic” Moisturizers: Paired with Glycerine to create a superior hydration effect in high-end lotions.

Formulation Guidelines

• The “Weightless” Moisturizer: Use Sodium Lactate when you want to boost the hydration of a formula without increasing its thickness or stickiness.
• pH Buffering: It acts as a weak buffer. If you are using acidic ingredients, Sodium Lactate helps prevent the pH of your formula from drifting too low over time.
• Cold Process Soap: Add it to your cooled lye water. It makes the soap bar harder and creates a “creamier” lather.
• Compatibility: It works beautifully with other humectants. Pairing 2% Glycerine with 2% Sodium Lactate creates a “synergistic” hydration effect that outperforms either ingredient used alone.

Safety Guidelines

• Non-Irritating: Unlike Lactic Acid (which is an exfoliant and can sting), Sodium Lactate is a neutral salt and is very soothing.
• Electrolyte Note: Because it is a salt (an electrolyte), it can sometimes “thin out” emulsions stabilized with certain carbomers or synthetic thickeners. Always test a small batch first.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place. Keep the container tightly closed, as it is highly hygroscopic.

Please Note:

All the products supplied are for cosmetic use (cosmetic formulations) – for external use only.