Snapshot
- Overview
- A preservative that helps keep formulas free of microbial growth.
- Category
- Preservative
- Type
- Preservative
Sodium Levulinate
Sodium Levulinate is the sodium salt of levulinic acid used in cosmetics as a preservation component. It supports product freshness through antimicrobial activity that depends on pH, concentration, and co-preservatives across leave-on and rinse-off products.
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Our take
Is Sodium Levulinate a Good Ingredient?
It rates Good as a reliable contributor to preservation when supported by suitable pH and co-preservatives. It doesn't rate higher because it's rarely sufficient as a sole preservative on its own.
What it does
Skin Benefits
It contributes to microbial control to keep formulas fresher and extend usable life, though performance varies with pH and formulation partners, so results depend on the overall preservation system.
Where you'll find it
Uses in Skincare & Cosmetics
It's included in moisturizers, serums, and cleansers as part of multifunctional preservation blends, and often paired with sodium anisate or organic acids in both leave-on and rinse-off products.
Before you use it
Safety
It's generally low irritation at cosmetic levels, though acidic salts may sting on compromised or very sensitive skin. Efficacy and tolerance are influenced by the finished formula's pH.
Products with Sodium Levulinate
