What Is Ammonium metavanadate?

Learn about the buffering characteristics of Ammonium metavanadate and its usage in personal care products.

What Is Ammonium metavanadate? Brandon Jones / IngredientReviewer

Last Updated: October 2, 2024

Written by Brandon Jones

What Is Ammonium metavanadate?

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Ammonium metavanadate is a white powder that can be dangerous if inhaled. It is commonly used in cosmetics as a buffer, which helps to keep the pH levels stable. It is also used as a dryer for paints and dyes. When heated, it loses ammonia and turns into an orange-colored powder. However, it should be handled with care since it can release toxic fumes and cause irritation to the skin or eyes.

What is the purpose of Ammonium metavanadate in personal care products? It is used for its buffering characteristics. Ammonium metavanadate regulates the pH balance.

Names and identifiers that we found for this substance include: Ammonium metavanadate, Ammonium trioxovanadate, Ammonium vanadate ((NH4)VO3), Ammonium tris(oxido)vanadate(1-), and Ammonium vanadium oxide ((NH4)VO3).

What Are Buffering Ingredients?

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Ammonium metavanadate 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.

Safety

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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.