What is the purpose of Sodium Aluminum Lactate in personal care products?
It is used for its astringent and buffering
characteristics.
Sodium Aluminum Lactate tightens the skin and regulates the pH balance.
Names and identifiers that we found for this substance include: Sodium Aluminum Lactate and "Aluminum, lactate sodium complexes, basic".
Sodium Aluminum Lactate has astringent characteristics.
Astringent ingredients in cosmetic products shrink or tighten the skin and reduce oiliness. This results in a temporary reduction in the appearance of pores and an overall smoother, firmer skin texture. Astringents can also help to remove excess dirt and oil from the skin, making it feel clean and refreshed. They are commonly found in toners, cleansers, and other skincare products targeted toward oily or acne-prone skin.
Types of Astringent Ingredients
Here are some of the most common types of astringent ingredients in cosmetics:
Tannins: These are plant-based compounds that have astringent properties. They are found in various natural ingredients like witch hazel, oak bark, and tea leaves.
Alcohols: Certain types of alcohol, like ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, and denatured alcohol, are commonly used in cosmetics as astringents. These alcohols can dissolve oil and reduce the appearance of pores.
Essential oils: Certain essential oils like lemon, lime, and grapefruit are known for their astringent properties. These oils help to tighten the skin and reduce the appearance of pores.
Clay: Certain types of clay, like kaolin and bentonite, have astringent properties. These clays help to absorb excess oil and impurities from your skin.
Sodium Aluminum Lactate has buffering characteristics.
Buffering ingredients helps regulate and maintain the pH balance of cosmetic products. The pH scale is a method used to determine a mixture's acidity or alkalinity level. Our skin's natural pH balance helps it stay healthy and function properly. When cosmetic products are applied to the skin, they can alter the pH balance, potentially causing irritation or other adverse effects.
Buffering ingredients neutralize or adjust the pH of cosmetic products to match that of the skin, which helps minimize the risk of irritation or damage. By maintaining a consistent pH balance, buffering ingredients can also improve the stability and effectiveness of a product's active ingredients.
Types of Buffering Ingredients
Here are some of the most common types of buffering ingredients:
Alkalis: These have a high pH and are used to neutralize acids. They help maintain the product's pH within a desired range.
Acids: These have a low pH and are used to neutralize alkalis. They help maintain the cosmetic product's pH within a desired range.
Salts: These are formed when an acid and a base (alkali) are mixed. They help maintain the cosmetic product's stability by preventing changes in pH caused by external factors such as heat or exposure to air.
Remember, always read and follow the instructions provided on product labels carefully. If you have any questions or concerns about using a product containing various ingredients, consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before use.