Sodium silicate is an inorganic alkaline salt used in cosmetics primarily as a pH adjuster, buffering agent, and to provide viscosity or film-forming properties. It is highly alkaline and is typically used in small concentrations within formulations such as masks and cleansing products.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Skin irritation | Common | Due to its high alkalinity, it can cause irritation, redness, or stinging, especially at higher concentrations or on sensitive skin. |
Dryness or tightness | Common | Its alkaline nature can disrupt the skin barrier and strip natural oils, leading to dryness. |
Contact dermatitis | Uncommon | Prolonged or concentrated exposure may trigger irritant contact dermatitis. |
Chemical burns | Rare | At high concentrations or with prolonged contact, the caustic alkalinity can cause burns. |
Eye irritation | Rare | Accidental contact with eyes can cause significant irritation due to alkalinity. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
Peer-reviewed papers on this ingredient, via PubMed.