Sodium carbonate is an alkaline inorganic salt used in skincare primarily to raise and stabilize formulation pH. It functions as a pH adjuster and buffering agent rather than as a therapeutic active.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Skin irritation | Common | Its alkalinity can cause stinging, redness, or irritation, especially at higher concentrations or on broken skin. |
| Dryness and disruption of skin barrier | Uncommon | Elevated pH may compromise the acid mantle, leading to dryness with prolonged or frequent exposure. |
| Eye irritation | Uncommon | Accidental contact with eyes can cause irritation and watering due to its alkaline nature. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Sensitization reactions are infrequently reported. |
| Chemical burns | Very rare | Only with highly concentrated solutions or improper use far above cosmetic-grade levels. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.