Sodium Benzoate

Sodium Benzoate is a water-soluble preservative used in cosmetic formulations to support microbial stability in pH-controlled systems.

What is Sodium Benzoate & why is it used?

Sodium Benzoate is used as part of a preservation system to support microbial stability. Its effectiveness depends on formulation pH and it is typically used alongside other preservatives.

QUALITY MATTERS

Why specification quality matters

High-purity USP grade Sodium Benzoate with verified assay (99.96%) and low moisture
content, supporting reliable formulation performance.

Solubility Water soluble

Primary function Preservation

Use level 0.2–0.5%

Behaviour in formulations

Sodium Benzoate performs in aqueous and emulsion systems but requires an acidic pH to
function effectively.

Sensory notes

Sodium Benzoate does not significantly impact sensory profile and integrates cleanly into formulations. Sensory outcome is formulation-dependent.

Formulation considerations

PROCESSING

Add to the water phase with mixing until fully dissolved. Adjust pH as required after incorporation.

COMPATIBILITY

Compatible with most cosmetic ingredients
Works best in combination with potassium sorbate
Performance improves with chelating agents (e.g. EDTA)

pH

Effective in acidic systems (typically pH <5.5). Requires pH adjustment to function effectively.

FORMULATION EXAMPLES

Cleanser system

Sodium benzoate: 0.2–0.4%
Potassium sorbate: 0.1–0.2%
Citric acid to adjust pH
Surfactant system

Supports preservation in acidic systems.

Toner system

Sodium benzoate: 0.2–0.3%
Chelating agent: as required
Humectants and Actives

Used in pH-controlled aqueous systems.

Use level considerations

Recommended range 0.2–0.5%

Suggested starting level 0.25–0.4% in combination systems%

Typically used at 0.2–0.5% and requires pH adjustment to ensure efficacy.

Formulation summary

Sodium Benzoate is a widely used preservative in pH-controlled systems, supporting formulation stability when used within appropriate conditions.

Quality notes