Disliked

Sodium Benzoate

Explained

Sodium Benzoate is a preservative. It's used in both cosmetic and food products to inhibit the growth of mold and bacteria. It is typically produced synthetically.

Both the US FDA and EU Health Committee have approved the use of sodium benzoate. In the US, levels of 0.1% (of the total product) are allowed.

Sodium benzoate works as a preservative by inhibiting the growth of bacteria inside of cells. It prevents the cell from fermenting a type of sugar using an enzyme called phosphofructokinase.

It is the salt of benzoic acid. Foods containing sodium benzoate include soda, salad dressings, condiments, fruit juices, wines, and snack foods.

Studies for using ascorbic acid and sodium benzoate in cosmetics are lacking, especially in skincare routines with multiple steps.

We always recommend speaking with a professional, such as a dermatologist, if you have any concerns.

See all 15,571 products with Sodium Benzoate

Users who like it
29%
Users who avoid it
71%

What it does

Masking Obscuring or blocking
Preservative Tending to preserve or capable of preserving.

Prevalence

Somewhat common Percentage of products that contain it
17.4%
Top categories
Cleansers
Treatments
Moisturizers
Position Predominant list placement
Bottom 25%
Concentration Concentrations we've seen
0% to 5%

References

CosIng Data

CosIng ID 37735
INCI Name SODIUM BENZOATE
INN Name sodium benzoate
EC #  208-534-8
Ph. Eur. Name natrii benzoas
All Functions Anticorrosive, Masking, Preservative