
Formulator’s Queries, We Answered
1. What is the CAS number and INCI name of Sodium Salicylate?
CAS number: 54-21-7
INCI name: Sodium Salicylate
2. What is Sodium Salicylate chemically?
Sodium Salicylate is the sodium salt of salicylic acid (also called 2-Hydroxybenzoic acid sodium salt). Its molecular formula is C₇H₅NaO₃ and its molecular weight is about 160.1 g/mol
3. What are the common uses of Sodium Salicylate in personal care / cosmetics?
It is used as a preservative / denaturant in cosmetic and personal-care formulations.
It may also confer soothing / anti-inflammatory / antimicrobial effects, which can be useful in skin-care, body care, make-up, hair care, and similar applications.
In some formulations, it can help inhibit the growth of bacteria or fungi — thereby extending shelf-life and contributing to product safety
4. What are typical concentration limits / regulatory restrictions for Sodium Salicylate in cosmetics?
According to ingredient-safety registries, when used in cosmetic formulations, the permitted maximum concentration in ready-to-use products is 0.5%.
Additional caution: it should not be used in products intended for children below 3 years of age — except for shampoos
5. Is Sodium Salicylate considered safe for cosmetic use? What about irritation or toxicity?
According to a safety review of salicylic acid and salicylates used in cosmetics, when formulated at appropriate concentrations (and when the final formulation is non-irritating / non-sensitizing), Sodium Salicylate is considered safe under current cosmetic use practices.
However — as per material-safety data sheets (MSDS) — undiluted Sodium Salicylate (pure powder) can be irritating to skin and eyes and harmful if swallowed.