BORAX

• SDS
• COA
• Factsheet

General Description:
Borax, also known as sodium borate, sodium tetraborate, or disodium tetraborate, is a naturally occurring mineral composed of sodium, boron, oxygen, and water. It is a white, powdery substance that dissolves easily in water. Borax has been used for centuries in various applications, from cleaning products to personal care items, due to its antiseptic, antifungal, and cleansing properties.

Uses in the Cosmetic Industry:
In the cosmetic industry, borax is used for its emulsifying, buffering, and preservative properties. Its applications include:

• Emulsifiers: Borax is used as an emulsifying agent in creams, lotions, and ointments, helping to stabilize and blend oil and water components in the formulation.
• Preservatives: It acts as a mild preservative in cosmetic products, preventing the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms, thereby extending shelf life.
• Buffering Agent: Borax is used to maintain the pH balance of cosmetic formulations, ensuring they remain stable and effective.
  Bath Products: It is included in bath salts and bath bombs for its water-softening and cleansing properties.
• Skin Care Products: Borax can be found in certain cleansers and masks for its mild antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to cleanse and soothe the skin.

Hazard:
While borax is effective in various cosmetic applications, it does pose certain hazards and considerations:

• Skin Irritation: Borax can cause skin irritation or sensitization, particularly with prolonged exposure or high concentrations. It is important to use products containing borax as directed and conduct patch tests for sensitive skin.
• Eye Irritation: Contact with borax can cause significant eye irritation. Proper care should be taken to avoid eye exposure, and immediate rinsing is recommended if contact occurs.
• Reproductive and Developmental Toxicity: Borax has been associated with reproductive and developmental toxicity in animal studies. There is concern about its potential impact on human reproductive health, leading to regulatory restrictions on its use in cosmetics in certain regions.
• Inhalation Risk: Inhalation of borax powder can irritate the respiratory tract. Proper handling and protective equipment are necessary to avoid inhalation, especially in manufacturing settings.
• Environmental Impact: Borax is relatively safe for the environment but can affect aquatic ecosystems in high concentrations. Responsible sourcing and disposal practices are important to minimize environmental impact.