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SODIUM CHLORIDE

Description

Sodium chloride, commonly known as table salt, is a versatile ingredient in skincare formulations. This inorganic compound consists of sodium and chloride ions, forming cubic crystals. In skincare, sodium chloride serves multiple purposes beyond its familiar culinary uses.

As an osmotic agent, sodium chloride helps balance the water content in skincare products, influencing their texture and stability. It acts as a thickening agent in certain formulations, contributing to the desired consistency of creams and lotions. In cleansing products, sodium chloride can enhance foam production and stability, improving the overall cleansing experience.

Sodium chloride also functions as a preservative booster, working synergistically with other preservatives to maintain product integrity. In some formulations, it may help to adjust the ionic strength, which can impact the efficacy of other active ingredients.

While generally considered safe for topical use, high concentrations of sodium chloride can be drying to the skin. Formulators must carefully balance its concentration to achieve desired effects without compromising skin hydration. In certain products, sodium chloride may be used for its exfoliating properties, helping to remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover.