Sodium Salicylate is the sodium salt of salicylic acid, a water-soluble form of this well-known beta-hydroxy acid (BHA). It functions as a mild preservative, pH adjuster, masking agent, and gentle exfoliant. Unlike salicylic acid, its higher solubility in water makes it easier to incorporate into aqueous systems at low concentrations. Sodium Salicylate is commonly used in toners, cleansers, shampoos, scalp treatments, anti-dandruff products, acne formulations, and some oral care items. It provides clarifying, keratolytic, and antimicrobial benefits while helping control pH and mask odors.
Products with SODIUM SALICYLATE
With samples available
Unispheres™ UB0M-424SC
by Givaudan
- Sustainable option
Sodium Salicylate
by Yantai Aurora Chemical
SEBOCLEAR™
by Rahn
What is SODIUM SALICYLATE used for?
- Preservative / Antimicrobial: Inhibits microbial growth, especially bacteria and fungi. Frequently used in shampoos, scalp tonics, and cleansers to support preservation and reduce dandruff or scalp irritation.
- Buffering / pH adjusting: Helps stabilize formulation pH in the acidic range (around 4-5.5). Common in toners, exfoliating products, and cleansers to maintain skin-friendly acidity.
- Keratolytic / Exfoliating: Promotes gentle desquamation and removal of dead skin cells. Ideal for clarifying toners, acne treatments, and scalp care products targeting buildup or flaking.
- Masking: Neutralizes unpleasant odors from raw materials. Used in functional products like shampoos and deodorants for improved sensory acceptance.
Origin
Sodium Salicylate is produced synthetically by neutralizing salicylic acid with sodium hydroxide or sodium carbonate. Salicylic acid can be derived from phenol or from natural sources such as willow bark using Kolbe-Schmitt carboxylation. The resulting white crystalline powder or granules are highly purified to meet cosmetic and pharmaceutical standards. While salicylic acid has historical roots in willow bark, modern cosmetic-grade Sodium Salicylate is industrially synthesized for consistency and purity.
What does SODIUM SALICYLATE do in a formulation?
DENATURANT|
PRESERVATIVE|
ANTIMICROBIAL|
MASKING|
ANTIDANDRUFFSafety Profile
Sodium Salicylate is considered safe for cosmetic use at low concentrations, typically 0.1-0.5% as a preservative or pH adjuster, and up to 2% in some exfoliating products. This assessment is supported by the CIR Expert Panel and the EU SCCS opinions on salicylates. It has a low to moderate hazard rating from EWG (2-4) due to potential irritation at higher levels or in sensitive individuals. It is milder than salicylic acid but can cause stinging on compromised skin. Approved in the EU up to 2% in rinse-off products and 0.5% in leave-on products (Annex III). Well-tolerated in most formulations. Patch testing advised for very sensitive skin. Not suitable for children under 3 in certain regions due to salicylate concerns.
SODIUM SALICYLATE alternatives
SODIUM SALICYLATE technical profile
| Property | Values |
| Boiling Point | Decomposes (>200°C) |
| Melting Point | >300°C (decomposes) |
| pH | ~6.0-8.0 |
| Solubility | Highly soluble in water; soluble in alcohols |