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SODIUM ANISATE

Last update on Jul 24, 2025

Sodium Anisate is a natural preservative that prevents the degradation of cosmetic products over time. Its antimicrobial activity blocks the development of yeast and fungi in formulations, thereby increasing their shelf life. Being naturally derived from fennel or anise, it is considered a great natural alternative to synthetic preservatives used in cosmetics. However, Sodium Anisate must be combined with other preservatives for the best results. This ingredient is safe for daily topical use and is often added to green or clean label cosmetics. In its raw form, Sodium Anisate appears as a white powder. Its chemical formula is C8H7NaO3.

CAS Number: 536-45-8Chem/IUPAC Name: Sodium anisateEINECS/ELINCS No: 208-634-1COSING REF No: 82817

Products with SODIUM ANISATE

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dermosoft® 1388 eco

by Evonik

INCI: GLYCERIN | AQUA | SODIUM LEVULINATE | SODIUM ANISATE
  • Sustainable option

What is SODIUM ANISATE used for?

Sodium Anisate is a versatile ingredient and is a lot more than just a preservative. From toning the face, to combating acne, to strengthening the hair follicles - Sodium Anisate offers a great deal. 

For skin: Sodium Anisate is a natural preservative for skin care formulations. It prevents bacterial growth and increases the shelf life of these products. Additionally, this ingredient imparts a pleasant fragrance to products and masks the smell of other ingredients added to a product. Sodium Anisate is quite valuable for acne-prone skin as it fights acne-causing bacteria and leaves the skin smoother and healthier. It is also used in anti-aging products as it can help prevent wrinkles and sagging by tightening the skin. 

For hair: Sodium Anisate preserves hair care products like shampoos, conditioners, scalp tonic, and hair serums. It may also support microbial balance on the scalp and prevent dandruff. This ingredient is often added to sulphate-free, fragrance-free, and organic hair care formulations.

Origin

Sodium Anisate is made from p-anisic acid, which is naturally found in anise and fennel. This acid is neutralized with a food-grade base like sodium hydroxide to form Sodium Anisate. This simple reaction is safe and does not alter the natural backbone of the ingredient - thus classified as ‘naturally derived’. The final ingredient is purified and standardized.

What does SODIUM ANISATE do in a formulation?

ANTIMICROBIAL|
PERFUMING|
PRESERVATIVE|
ANTIDANDRUFF|
SMOOTHING

Safety Profile

Sodium Anisate is generally considered safe within the recommended usage concentrations of 0.05% - 0.4%. It is soothing, non-irritating, and gentle. It can be easily combined with other mild preservatives to increase its potency. Additionally, Sodium Anisate is non-comedogenic and considered safe enough for baby products and use during pregnancy. However, patch tests can be performed prior to full application in order to test for individual sensitivities. Further, this preservative is biodegradable and harmless to the environment.

SODIUM ANISATE technical profile

PropertyValues

Boiling Point

276°C - 278°C

Solubility

Soluble in water

Viscosity

Low