Skip to main content
Home / Ingredient Glossary / Sodium Lactate
overview

known as sodium lactate

source lactic acid

function humectant

find it in

Sodium Lactate

Sodium lactate is the natural sodium salt of lactic acid derived from the fermentation of sugar.

It’s a natural moisturising factor (NMF) which means it’s responsible for maintaining adequate hydration of the stratum corneum (the outer layer of your skin). Benefits include:

  • maintaining skin elasticity
  • activating hydrolytic enzymes (allowing dead cells to shed naturally)
  • supporting healthy skin barrier function (mitigates TEWL and susceptibility to environmental damage)

The water holding capacity of sodium lactate is double that of glycerin. It’s one of the most effective humectants in both humid and arid climates. It also provides a soft and non-tacky skin feel.

Sodium lactate can boost the effectiveness of AHAs as well as the brightening capacity of vitamin C. Plus, it can help facilitate product preservation.

Explore More

citric acid

Citric Acid

Citric acid is a mild acid derived from citrus fruits. It's generally used in small amounts to adjust pH of fomulas, but may…
hemp seed oil

Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil

Green-yellow-hued emollient rich in linoleic and linolenic acids, terpenes, terpenoids, and flavonoids. This exceptionally soothing lipid is perfect for skins prone to sensitivity,…
Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate

Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate

Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate is an amino acid derived surfactant that creates beautifully light and elegant emulsions. It forms stable emulsions at low usage…
passionfruit oil

Passiflora Edulis (Maracujá) Seed Oil

Maracujá oil, also known as passionfruit oil, is remarkably high in skin healing linoleic acid. It’s rich in protective antioxidants to battle the…