
General Description
Calcium Hydroxide, also known as slaked lime or hydrated lime, is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Ca(OH)₂. It appears as a fine white powder and is widely used in various industries due to its strong alkaline properties. This compound is known for its high reactivity with acids and its ability to regulate pH levels.
Uses in the Cosmetics Industry
In the cosmetics and personal care industry, Calcium Hydroxide is commonly used in hair straighteners, depilatory creams, and skin treatments. It functions as a pH adjuster, helping to maintain the stability and effectiveness of beauty formulations. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in the manufacture of dental care products, such as toothpaste and mouthwash, due to its antibacterial properties. Many cosmetic brands buy Calcium Hydroxide in bulk for large-scale production, making it a popular choice for wholesale and industrial sales.
Side Effects & Hazards
While Calcium Hydroxide is effective in cosmetic formulations, it must be handled with caution. In high concentrations, it can cause skin and eye irritation, leading to redness, burns, or allergic reactions. Inhalation of Calcium Hydroxide powder may cause respiratory discomfort. Improper use or excessive exposure can result in severe chemical burns. Therefore, it is important for manufacturers and cosmetic formulators to follow safety guidelines when handling this ingredient.
For those looking to buy Calcium Hydroxide in bulk or for wholesale supply, it is essential to source it from reputable suppliers to ensure purity and compliance with industry standards. Whether you are in the manufacturing sector or in sales and distribution, sourcing high-quality Calcium Hydroxide ensures safe and effective product formulations.
CAS NO. :-1305-62-0
INCI:-Calcium Hydroxide
COMPOSITION: Chemical Formula: Ca(OH)₂
Molecular Weight: 74.09 g/mol
Calcium hydroxide is an inorganic compound made from the combination of calcium, oxygen, and hydrogen.
Key Components:
Calcium (Ca)
Hydroxide (OH)
PURITY GRADE:-Cosmetic Grade: ≥ 95% purity, suitable for use in cosmetic formulations like hair relaxers or pH balancing.
Pharmaceutical Grade: Available in higher purity grades for medicinal or therapeutic applications.
Industrial Grade: Calcium hydroxide used in construction, water treatment, and other industrial applications can vary in purity.
APPEARANCE:-A white, odorless, crystalline powder or fine white powder.
It is often found as a suspension in water, known as ""limewater."""
SOLUBILITY:-Slightly soluble in water (about 1.85 g/L at 20°C).
Insoluble in alcohol, ether, and most organic solvents.
It forms a solution when mixed with water, known as ""limewater.""
PRESEVATION:-Calcium hydroxide is stable in most formulations and does not require additional preservatives when stored properly. It is commonly used in pH-balancing or in hair treatments without the need for preservatives.
STORAGE:-Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from moisture and acids.
Recommended storage temperature: 15–25°C (59–77°F).
Keep in tightly sealed containers to avoid contamination from humidity, as it is hygroscopic.
RAW MATERIAL SOURCE:-Calcium hydroxide is produced by the reaction of lime (calcium oxide) with water. It is often derived from naturally occurring limestone (calcium carbonate) that is heated to produce calcium oxide, which is then hydrated to form calcium hydroxide.
MANUFACTURE:- Industrial Production: Calcium hydroxide is typically manufactured through the hydration of calcium oxide (quicklime) in a controlled environment. The process is as follows:
Calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) is heated to produce calcium oxide (CaO).
Calcium oxide is then combined with water to form calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂).
The reaction is:
CaO
+
H₂O
→
Ca(OH)₂
CaO+H₂O→Ca(OH)₂
ANIMAL TESTING:- Calcium hydroxide is typically not tested on animals in cosmetic formulations, especially in regions where animal testing is banned. It may, however, be used in certain industrial and pharmaceutical applications where testing could occur.
GMO:-GMO Status ; Non-GMO; Calcium hydroxide is an inorganic compound and is not derived from genetically modified organisms.
VEGAN:-Vegan; Calcium hydroxide is a synthetic inorganic compound and does not involve animal-derived ingredients or by-products.
WARNING:-
- Skin Irritation: Can cause severe skin irritation or chemical burns, especially in concentrated forms or if prolonged contact occurs. Use with caution.
- Eye Contact: Highly irritating to the eyes. In case of contact, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical attention.
- Inhalation: Dust or mist of calcium hydroxide may irritate the respiratory system. Prolonged inhalation of dust should be avoided.
- Ingestion: Harmful if ingested in large quantities. May cause irritation or burns to the mouth, throat, and digestive tract.
Environmental Impact: Calcium hydroxide is alkaline and can alter the pH of water bodies, potentially harming aquatic life. It should be disposed of carefully in accordance with environmental regulations.
THE STORY OF CALCIUM HYDROXIDE
Calcium Hydroxide: The Strong Alkaline pH Adjuster & Processing Agent
Calcium Hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂), commonly known as slaked lime, is a high-alkalinity inorganic compound used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial formulations as a pH regulator, buffering agent, and processing chemical. It plays a key role in depilatory creams, hair relaxers, dental products, and traditional skincare systems.
Created by Hydrating Quicklime for High-Purity Fine Powder
Calcium Hydroxide is manufactured by adding purified water to calcium oxide (quicklime), followed by drying, micronizing, and sieving to achieve consistent cosmetic-grade texture and purity. TRCkem supplies high-whiteness, low-impurity material suitable for regulated pH-controlled applications.
Neutralize. Process. Control pH.
Key uses in personal-care and pharma formulations:
✅ pH adjuster / alkalizing agent
✅ Used in hair relaxers & depilatory creams to soften keratin bonds
✅ Acts as a buffering base in dental care preparations (e.g., root canal pastes)
✅ Supports emulsification and product stabilization in traditional cold-process creams
✅ Used in some herbal / Ayurvedic paste formulas as a processing medium
Highly Alkaline – Strict Handling & Regulatory Limits Required
• Typical use level: <1% in finished cosmetic formulas (higher only in regulated depilatory/relaxer systems)
• Strongly alkaline (pH ~12.4 in 1% solution) → must be neutralized or safely buffered
• Can cause irritation if used incorrectly — requires PPE during handling
• Allowed in specific product categories under EU, FDA, and BIS regulations, banned in leave-on skincare
• Store sealed, dry, and away from acids or moisture exposure
Formulator’s Queries, We Answered
1. What is Calcium Hydroxide?
Calcium Hydroxide is an inorganic alkaline compound commonly used in personal care products as a pH adjuster, depilatory agent, and skin treatment ingredient. It helps balance acidity in formulations and is widely used in hair relaxers and skincare products.
2. What is the CAS number and INCI name of Calcium Hydroxide?
CAS Number: 1305-62-0
INCI Name: Calcium Hydroxide
3. What are the benefits of Calcium Hydroxide in personal care products?
Calcium Hydroxide is valued for its:
pH adjustment properties: Helps maintain the desired pH level in cosmetic formulations.
Hair relaxing and straightening abilities: Used in chemical hair relaxers.
Antiseptic properties: Helps prevent bacterial growth in certain skincare treatments.
Mild exfoliation: Can aid in removing dead skin cells when properly formulated.
4. How does Calcium Hydroxide work in cosmetic formulations?
Calcium Hydroxide acts as a strong pH adjuster, neutralizing acidity in formulations. In hair relaxers, it breaks down the hair’s protein structure, allowing for straightening effects.
5. Is Calcium Hydroxide safe for all skin types?
Calcium Hydroxide must be used within strict safety limits, as it can be highly alkaline and irritating to the skin at high concentrations. Proper formulation and neutralization are essential to prevent irritation.
6. What types of personal care products contain Calcium Hydroxide?
Calcium Hydroxide is found in:
Hair relaxers and straighteners (especially no-lye formulas)
Depilatory creams (for hair removal)
pH-adjusting skincare products
Dental care (used in some toothpaste and cavity treatments)
7. Can Calcium Hydroxide be combined with other ingredients?
Yes, Calcium Hydroxide is often used with:
Guanidine Carbonate (in no-lye relaxers) to create a gentle formula.
Citric Acid or Lactic Acid to balance pH levels.
Moisturizing agents (such as Aloe Vera or Shea Butter) to counteract potential dryness.
8. Does Calcium Hydroxide cause any side effects?
Calcium Hydroxide is safe when used correctly, but potential side effects include:
Skin irritation in high concentrations.
Eye irritation if it comes into direct contact.
Scalp sensitivity if used improperly in hair relaxers.
9. What is the recommended concentration of Calcium Hydroxide in personal care formulations?
Up to 5% in hair relaxers and depilatory products.
Less than 1% in skincare products for pH regulation.
10. Is Calcium Hydroxide natural or synthetic?
Calcium Hydroxide is naturally derived from limestone but is industrially processed for use in cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications.
11. Where can I purchase high-quality Calcium Hydroxide for formulation purposes?
Calcium Hydroxide is available from cosmetic raw material suppliers. Ensure you choose high-purity, cosmetic-grade Calcium Hydroxide for safe and effective formulations.