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SODIUM UNDECYLENATE

Description

Sodium undecylenate is a versatile antimicrobial agent derived from castor oil, widely used in skincare and personal care products. This sodium salt of undecylenic acid exhibits potent antifungal properties, making it particularly effective against various strains of fungi, including those responsible for common skin conditions like athlete's foot, ringworm, and candidiasis.

In skincare formulations, sodium undecylenate serves multiple purposes. Its primary function is as a preservative, helping to extend product shelf life by inhibiting microbial growth. Additionally, it acts as an emulsifier, aiding in the stable combination of oil and water-based ingredients. The compound's mild acidity (pH around 7.5-8.5) contributes to maintaining optimal skin pH balance.

Sodium undecylenate is generally well-tolerated by most skin types and is considered safe for use in concentrations up to 2% in leave-on products and 3% in rinse-off formulations. It's often incorporated into anti-dandruff shampoos, foot care products, and topical antifungal treatments. While effective against fungi, it shows limited activity against bacteria, necessitating the use of additional preservatives in many formulations to ensure broad-spectrum antimicrobial protection.