Sodium dehydroacetate is the sodium salt of dehydroacetic acid, used as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservative to inhibit growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold in cosmetic and skincare formulations. It is most effective in slightly acidic to neutral pH ranges.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Skin irritation | Uncommon | Mild redness or stinging possible, typically at higher concentrations. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Occasional sensitization reported in patch-test studies. |
| Eye irritation | Rare | May cause irritation on direct contact with eyes. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.