Is sodium benzoate safe in skincare?

Sodium benzoate is a preservative used to prevent bacterial and fungal growth in cosmetics. Published safety reviews show no significant concerns at the levels used in topical products.

Does sodium benzoate cause cancer?

This concern often comes from discussions about sodium benzoate in food products. In cosmetic products applied topically, published safety reviews do not identify cancer risk at the concentrations used.

Why is sodium benzoate in my cosmetics?

It's an effective preservative that prevents contamination and extends product shelf life. It's one of the oldest and most-studied preservatives used in beauty products.

preservative

Sodium Benzoate

Generally safe·Strong evidence

The sodium salt of benzoic acid, used as a preservative in both foods and cosmetics. Decades of safety review support its use at typical cosmetic concentrations, with mild irritation the main reported issue in sensitive skin.

Questions

Is sodium benzoate safe in skincare?: Sodium benzoate is a preservative used to prevent bacterial and fungal growth in cosmetics. Published safety reviews show no significant concerns at the levels used in topical products.
Does sodium benzoate cause cancer?: This concern often comes from discussions about sodium benzoate in food products. In cosmetic products applied topically, published safety reviews do not identify cancer risk at the concentrations used.
Why is sodium benzoate in my cosmetics?: It's an effective preservative that prevents contamination and extends product shelf life. It's one of the oldest and most-studied preservatives used in beauty products.

Products with Sodium Benzoate

References

Cosmetic information for general education, not medical advice. A verdict is a reading of the published evidence, never a guarantee for your skin: any ingredient can irritate someone, so patch test new products and see a professional if you react. Concern is graded on cited evidence, never on hazard-score lists. See how we score.