Sodium Thiosulfate is an inorganic sulfur-containing salt that acts as a reducing agent and antioxidant in formulations. It's used to quench residual oxidizers, support product stability, and reduce discoloration in water-based systems.
An antioxidant salt that helps keep formulas from discoloring.
Category
Antioxidant
Type
Antioxidant
Ratings
Overall Rating
Good
Comedogenic Risk
None
Not typically evaluated for comedogenicity — no standardized rating available.
Our take
Is Sodium Thiosulfate a Good Ingredient?
It rates Good as a well-established reducing agent that reliably stabilizes water-based formulas and offers antioxidant support, with good solubility and compatibility. It falls short of Great due to limited direct clinical evidence for meaningful skin outcomes in leave-on use.
What it does
Skin Benefits
It helps keep products looking fresh and can reduce the impact of oxidation on skin during use, aiding in preserving formula clarity and sensory quality over time.
Where you'll find it
Uses in Skincare & Cosmetics
It's common in water-based serums, toners, and essences as a stabilizing antioxidant, and used in hair treatments and after-rinse products formulated to counter oxidative effects.
Before you use it
Safety
It carries low irritation risk at typical cosmetic levels and is broadly considered safe in topical formulations. Rare sensitivity is possible; discontinue if redness or stinging occurs. No common cosmetic regulatory limits are noted.